Learning about Welsh
Gold
Welsh gold is one of the most
precious and expensive metals available. Very often, it is also sold as rose
gold. Due to its scarcity and origin, Welsh gold is one of the most desired
and sought after metal since ages. Formerly, it was used as badges and neck
rings by ancient kings and queens. Presently, a wide variety of layouts and
designs give a distinctive look to various items made of Welsh gold.
Origin and Mines of Welsh Gold
Welsh gold occurs naturally in two districts of Wales – North Wales and
South Wales. In north Wales, Welsh gold lies in a band stretching from
Barmouth, past Dolgellau, and up towards Snowdonia. In South Wales, Welsh
gold is found in River Cothi at Dolaucothi. Presently, there are three mines
in Wales. These include –
* Dolaucothi, near Pumpsaint, Dyfed: It is the earliest Welsh gold mine,
founded in the Bronze Age and closed in 1938. Presently, it is open for
public under the control of the National Trust.
* Gwynfynydd Gold Mines in Dolgellau: It is one of the richest gold mines in
Britain. It started in 1860 and was closed in the late 1990s. Now it is
restored and is again in full production. You can also visit this working
gold mine.
* Clogau Gold Mine in Bontddu near Barmouth: It is a working gold mine.
Public entry to this mine is prohibited.
Formation of Welsh Gold
When Welsh gold is taken out, it has a distinctive reddish color due to the
existence of copper. After cleansing process, it is purified into yellow
color. The Welsh gold is not found in abundance as South African gold. One
can only identify the purified version of Welsh gold by it isotopic
composition. The normal physical and chemical tests are not enough to
identify the Welsh gold.
Welsh Gold Jewelry
The Welsh gold jewelry is designed and created by expert designers and
skilled craftsmen. These well-acknowledged designers apply traditional
methods developed over many years using modern technological methods in
order to design the unique and exotic Welsh gold jewelry. The craftsmen also
apply new and innovative designs that are liked and admired by the people
buying it. Some of the jewelry made up of Welsh gold includes pendants,
rings, lockets, bracelets, bangles, and earrings.
Patronage Value of Welsh Gold.
Welsh gold (Clogau Gold)
has a royal patronage value since ages and is still continuing. Some of the
famous and majestic people wore/wearing Welsh gold jewelry includes Her
Majesty the Queen, Queen Elizabeth, Princess Margaret, HRH the Prince of
Wales, Princess Dianna, and HRH Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall. Prince
Charles considers Welsh Gold as a token of love and it could be used by his
sons Prince William and Prince Harry for their future wives.
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