Gold bullion mines play an important role in the South African economy. South Africa had been acknowledged as the largest gold producer in the world for nearly a hundred years, only recently being knocked off the top spot by China in 2007.

South Africa is a mineral rich country also renowned for its diamond mining. Gold bullion was originally discovered in Witwatersrand which gave rise to the first South African gold rush in 1886. Since then the gold mining industry has grown from strength to strength with over 95% of mines being located underground.

With the current trend by investors and banks to buy gold bullion as a safe haven for assets, gold mines globally have increased production to supply the ongoing demand. South Africa is no exception and with mines reporting strong profits gold bullion mining in South Africa remains strong.

The attraction of gold bullion has remained strong for centuries. Seen as a symbol of wealth, power and status it is not surprising that with the current enthusiasm for gold products we have seen an influx of gold bullion gadgets on the market.

From an affordable price tag to ridiculously expensive if you want to buy gold gadgets there is a huge range to chose from. How about a gold bullion door stop or a gold plated computer mouse. A 24-c gold plated X box or an 18-c iPod shuffle will keep you entertained. If money is no object a gold plated Porsche is pretty impressive.

Gold products will always attract those wishing to impress friends and colleagues. Whether you think they are crass or you just want to add a touch of bling to your life, demand for gold gadgets is on the rise.

Following the repercussions of the recent global economic crisis and the continuing financial uncertainties, buying gold bullion remains a popular form of investment.

Historically gold bullion is regarded as a safe haven for assets against economic, social and political crisis that affects the financial market. Gold is often considered as a form of currency especially in the current climate with a fluctuating US dollar and the possible devaluation of paper currencies.

Physical gold bullion is available as gold bullion bars or coins. Bars can be purchased and either delivered to the owner or held in a secure vault. They are usually between 0.9 and 0.9999 fineness and are available as 2.5 gram through to 12.5 kilo bars. Gold bullion coins are usually minted in 1/10oz coins up to 1 kilo. Popular examples include Krugerrands, Britanias and Maple Leaf coins. Numismatic gold coins are old or rare coins that are often bought by collectors for their rarity and history.