Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the intrinsic value of gold as a "hard currency" and its origins from cosmic events, emphasizing its rarity and historical significance in the financial system [1][20][27]. Group 1: Origin of Gold - Gold is formed from the collision of neutron stars, which creates heavy elements through a rapid neutron capture process [3][6]. - The total amount of gold released from such cosmic events can exceed the current total production on Earth, as confirmed by the GW170817 event [6][8]. - Gold particles mixed into the primordial nebula of the Milky Way billions of years ago, eventually becoming part of the Earth during its formation [8][10]. Group 2: Rarity and Extraction - Approximately 99% of Earth's gold is located in the core, with only 1% accessible for mining [11]. - Geological processes such as volcanic eruptions and asteroid impacts have contributed to the distribution of gold in the Earth's crust [13][14]. - The average concentration of gold in the Earth's crust is about 0.005 parts per million, indicating the difficulty of extraction [18]. Group 3: Gold as Currency - Gold's scarcity is a physical reality, not a result of market manipulation, making it a reliable form of currency [20]. - It meets the criteria for a "perfect currency" due to its stability, resistance to corrosion, and historical value across cultures [21]. - In 2023, global central banks increased their gold reserves by 1,136 tons, marking a historical high, reflecting ongoing trust in gold as a financial asset [23]. Group 4: Future of Gold - The process of transmuting other elements into gold is currently prohibitively expensive and impractical, ensuring gold's continued status as a natural scarce currency [25]. - Gold serves as a stable anchor in times of financial uncertainty, maintaining its value and reliability [27].