ABOUT GOLD

Gold tells the fascinating story of the world’s most desired metal, exploring its natural beauty, scientific value and its power to shape history. The exhibit is organized by the following themes:

Aurum Naturae/Incomparable Gold
Visitors are introduced to mineralogy and geology through spectacular rare natural specimens including glittering crystallized gold and enormous gold nuggets. Gold’s technological applications are showcased by a replica Apollo II astronaut’s helmet with a gold visor and a circuit board with gold components. Visitors can walk through a spectacular 300-square-foot room covered entirely in just three ounces of gold. Objects, panels and interactive explain the history of mining, gold rushes, and how the lure of gold has been felt since the beginning of human civilization.

Golden Ages
This section explores how the world’s most powerful cultures have used gold in culture, art, and fashion. Decorative items from around the world include an ancient Inka figurine, a 6th century Peruvian vase, a gilded Buddha from Tibet, and a Fabergé egg with delicate gold scrollwork.

Lost and Found
Here visitors discover a treasure trove of gold bars, jewelry and coins recovered from American and Spanish shipwrecks. Recovered treasures provide a rare glimpse into the history of commercial gold.

Gold Standard
Gold is the most accepted currency in the world, and in this section visitors learn how individual countries base their economies on gold. Ancient coins from all over the world are on display, in addition to gold bars from many different countries.

Gold Achievement
From the time of ancient kings to today’s leader of industry, gold has been claimed as a prize and bestowed a precious gift. Its power continues today as the ultimate reward in the film, theater, music and sports industries. Awards on display include Susan Sarandon’s Oscar, and Emmys won by Harrison Ford and Walter Kronkite.