It was the sweat of the sun.

The Egyptians believed it would support them in the afterlife.

For thousands of years, gold has tempted explorers supported empires has become a market barometer.

Its value stems from its rarity.

A lthough gold mind over the course of civilization wouldn't fill for Olympic size swimming pools.

A direct link between gold and currency emerged in 550 BC when the first gold coins were struck in what is now part of modern Turkey.

In the 19th century, currencies around the world were fixed to gold.

That lasted until 1971 when President Nixon announced the U.

S would no longer exchange dollars for gold at a set price.

For investors, though, gold still glitters in times of crisis.

Its value Pete, at $1900 announced in 2011 on demand, often spikes at times of market stress as investors look for a safe haven.

Despite the allure, gold is not immune.

Thio Economic realities A slowdown in China has pulled prices down on gold's usefulness, is limited its primary purpose today for jewelry.

Still, many follow in the footsteps of the Spanish conquest Adore on an Cortez, who said, I and my companions suffered from a disease of the heart that could be cured only with gold.