What Is a Brick of Gold Called? Common Names & Features
Explore the precise terminology, standard dimensions, and critical attributes distinguishing investment-grade gold.
Gold, a precious metal, has long been recognized as a valuable asset and a reliable store of wealth. Its unique properties and historical significance have made it a sought-after commodity for investment and various industrial uses. This enduring appeal has led to its production in many physical forms.
The Common Name for a Gold Brick
What is commonly referred to as a “brick of gold” is most accurately known as a gold bar. The term “gold ingot” is also frequently used, particularly for larger gold bars that are created by pouring molten gold into a mold. While “ingot” specifically denotes a cast bar, “gold bar” serves as a broader term encompassing both cast and minted forms. Smaller bars are often produced by minting or stamping from rolled gold sheets, which results in a smoother, more uniform appearance compared to the rougher, unique surfaces of cast ingots.
Standard Gold Bar Weights
Gold bars are produced in a range of standardized weights to facilitate international trade and investment. The most prominent example is the “Good Delivery” bar, which is the standard for central banks and bullion dealers. These large, brick-like bars typically weigh around 400 troy ounces, equivalent to approximately 27.4 pounds or 12.4 kilograms. Their precise gold content can vary between 350 and 430 troy ounces.
Another widely recognized size is the kilobar, weighing 1,000 grams or 32.15 troy ounces. These are popular for trading and investment due to their more manageable size. While these larger sizes embody the “brick” appearance, gold bars are also available in much smaller, more accessible weights, such as 1 troy ounce, 10 troy ounces, and various gram denominations (e.g., 1 gram, 10 grams, 100 grams, 500 grams).
Defining Features of Gold Bars
Legitimate gold bars possess specific characteristics that ensure their authenticity and value. Purity is a primary feature; investment-grade gold bars typically have a minimum fineness of 99.5% pure gold (.995 fine), often reaching 99.99% pure (.9999 fine). This ensures minimal impurities.
Gold bars are also marked with essential information, which usually includes the refiner’s stamp or logo, the bar’s weight, its purity, and a unique serial number. These markings are typically stamped on the bar’s surface and help verify its authenticity and origin.