SUMMARY
The total amount of gold on Earth is estimated to be around 19 million kg, which can fit into a cube measuring 10 meters on each side. This gold has a market value of approximately $251 billion, calculated using a price of $370 per ounce. However, discussions indicate that the actual amount of gold, including that in the Earth's core, could be significantly higher, with estimates suggesting that governments and corporations hold far more than this figure. The International Monetary Fund (IMF) alone possesses about 3,217 metric tons of gold, valued at around $40 billion.
PREREQUISITES
- Understanding of gold density (19,300 kg/m³)
- Basic knowledge of metric tons and conversion to kilograms
- Familiarity with gold pricing and valuation methods
- Awareness of geological distribution of gold
NEXT STEPS
- Research the geological distribution of gold in the Earth's crust and core.
- Learn about the current market dynamics of gold pricing and valuation.
- Investigate the historical and current gold reserves held by governments and institutions.
- Explore the methods used for gold extraction and the implications for future availability.
USEFUL FOR
Geologists, economists, investors in precious metals, and anyone interested in the valuation and distribution of gold resources globally.