Science What if the process to make Gold from lead became cost effective

[Sailor.X]

Just a question. Lets say in a year or two that a private company invents and patents a method for turning not only Lead into Gold. But also Mercury into Gold. To the point they could produces tons of Gold in a matter of months. And it is pure gold no undesirable impurities. In effect making Gold the same value as Aluminum is today. What would this do to the Gold and Jewelry markets? Would this cause all other mass produced so called precious materials to plummet in price? What happens when the public learns about the process.

 

[Bear Ribs]

Yeah, I'd say gold would lose much of its use as a store of value. Certain countries and institutions that maintain stockpiles of gold as a reserve are going to be hosed.

The electronics market will benefit a lot, there're several industrial and electronic processes that benefit from using gold but are limited by cost. Cheap widespread gold will lower those manufacturing costs.

In the world of fine jewelry silver and platinum are going to be much more sought-after. Gold is extraordinarily beautiful and unique looking so it will still be used, just as copper, ceramic, and shell show up in some fine jewelry due to a unique look. However much of the value of ordinary pieces will be lost, while pieces with recognizable provenance will keep their value.

 

[Sailor.X]

Yeah, I'd say gold would lose much of its use as a store of value. Certain countries and institutions that maintain stockpiles of gold as a reserve are going to be hosed.

The electronics market will benefit a lot, there're several industrial and electronic processes that benefit from using gold but are limited by cost. Cheap widespread gold will lower those manufacturing costs.

In the world of fine jewelry silver and platinum are going to be much more sought-after. Gold is extraordinarily beautiful and unique looking so it will still be used, just as copper, ceramic, and shell show up in some fine jewelry due to a unique look. However much of the value of ordinary pieces will be lost, while pieces with recognizable provenance will keep their value.

Yep pretty much. I can see the US Gold Reserve easily becoming the US Platinum and Silver Reserves. China and Russia are gonna be hosed for sure. They will have to sell their reserves for pennies on the dollar compared to what Gold is currently worth.