Gold, a universally revered precious metal, symbolises rarity and intrinsic value. Among all the world's gold, however, Welsh gold stands out as truly exceptional. Revered as the rarest gold in the world, it holds a unique place in the hearts of many, not just those with Welsh ancestry, but all who are drawn to the romance of this beautiful nation's hidden treasures. But what exactly is Welsh gold, and what makes it so incredibly special?

At Carathea, we're passionate about the stories behind our jewellery. The allure of Welsh gold jewellery UK comes from its profound scarcity, its rich history, and a captivating connection to the British Royal family. Its distinct rosy, warm hue, often a result of natural alloying with copper in the earth, only adds to its charm.

The Rarity of Welsh Gold

The exceptional scarcity of Welsh gold is its defining characteristic. Historically, it has been mined from only two distinct regions of Wales, specifically from a mere handful of mines, all of which ceased operations decades ago. This extreme scarcity naturally makes Welsh gold highly sought after by collectors and connoisseurs worldwide.

Royal Connections: A Cherished Tradition

Welsh gold's royal connections are legendary. A beautiful tradition began with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother. For her wedding in 1923 to Prince Albert (the future King George VI), her wedding ring was fashioned from pure Welsh gold. This initiated a much-loved custom, and almost every member of the British Royal family since has had their wedding ring crafted from this precious metal.

The Queen's own wedding ring, for instance, was made from gold sourced from the Clogau St David's mine. Later, in 1986, to ensure the continuation of this tradition, a 1kg bar of Welsh gold from the Gwynfynydd mine was presented to Her Majesty the Queen for use in all future royal wedding rings.

Where Welsh Gold Was Mined

Historically, Welsh gold has been extracted from two primary regions:

• South Wales: Around the valley of the River Cothi, where gold has been mined since Roman times. Numerous artefacts, including coins and magnificent torcs like the 'Mold Cape’ from 74 AD (now displayed at the British Museum), have been discovered here
• North Wales: Predominantly from the Gwynfynydd and Clogau St David's mines in Snowdonia.

Gwynfynydd Mine

The Gwynfynydd mine, located near Dolgellau, Gwynedd, was discovered in 1860. Between its opening in 1869 and final closure in 1999, it yielded an impressive 45,000 troy ounces of gold. By 1888, the mine, owned by the renowned 'Welsh Gold King,' William Pritchard Morgan, employed 200 people. Unlike surface panning, the gold here was found deep underground in horizontal channels or veins, extracted by miners working by candlelight with water turbine-powered machinery.

Clogau St David's Gold Mine

The Clogau (pronounced "Clog-eye") mine, near Bontddu, North Wales, proved to be the most successful gold mine in the region. Initially opened for copper and lead extraction, gold was discovered in a lode of quartz in 1860. The mine produced significant quantities of gold before its initial closure in 1911.

In 1989, William Roberts purchased the mine, re-opening it from 1992 to 1998. During this period, sufficient gold was mined to establish the Clogau Gold of Wales Ltd jewellery range. William Roberts and his family have since built Clogau into a hugely successful company, guaranteeing that every piece of Clogau Gold jewellery contains a trace of authentic Welsh gold.

Is Welsh Gold Still Mined Today?

For a long time, extensive gold mining in Wales became financially unviable due to stringent health and safety regulations, pollution control measures (especially in Snowdonia, a protected National Park area), and higher wage costs compared to other global mining regions.

However, promising reports emerged in 2012 suggesting significant gold deposits might still exist around the Clogau St David's mine. Alba Mineral Resources commenced drilling in the area, discovering notable quantities of gold within a potentially rich vein. They expanded drilling efforts, estimating the presence of up to 500,000 ounces of gold, valued at approximately £700 million. Following this, Clogau has acquired around 80 acres of land near the Gwynfynydd mine, hinting at future possibilities

Jewellery Created from Welsh Gold

Today, companies like Clogau Gold of Wales are renowned for creating exquisite Welsh gold jewellery, with every piece containing traces of this pure, rare metal. Many jewellers across the UK, including us at Carathea, proudly stock the Clogau Gold range of jewellery.

Traditionally, designs featured beloved Welsh emblems such as lovespoons and daffodils. However, Clogau continually introduces new designs, making their collections highly prized and often purchased to mark special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries.

The Enduring Royal Connection

The use of Welsh gold in royal wedding rings has created a romantic and enduring tradition. Members of the Royal family whose wedding bands have incorporated Welsh gold include:

• Queen Elizabeth The Queen Mother and Prince George (King George VI) (1923)
• Queen Elizabeth II and Prince Philip (1947)
• Princess Margaret and The Earl of Snowdon
• Princess Anne and Captain Mark Phillips (1973)
• King Charles III and Princess Diana (1981) (both rings)
• King Charles III and The Queen Consort Camilla (2005) (both rings)
• Prince William and Catherine, Princess of Wales (2011)
• Prince Harry and Meghan, Duchess of Sussex (2018)
• Princess Eugenie and Jack Brooksbank (2018)

Additionally, the regalia worn by the Prince of Wales during his investiture (such as the coronet, rod, ring, and sword) has incorporated Welsh gold since Prince Edward's investment in 1911, a tradition continued by King Charles III in 1969.

Welsh Gold vs. Regular Gold & Its Colour

In terms of chemical composition, gold is gold, regardless of its origin. Welsh gold is essentially the same as any other pure gold. What makes it extraordinarily rare and special is its limited geological occurrence within the beautiful and protected landscapes of Wales, from which only a relatively small amount was ever extracted before mines closed. Being an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty means extensive future mining is unlikely, further enhancing the value of remaining reserves.

Regarding its colour, pure gold is universally the same golden hue. However, gold used in jewellery is almost always alloyed (mixed) with other metals to enhance its strength and workability. Due to the natural presence of copper deposits near Welsh gold veins, copper was frequently used as an alloy, which gave the resulting Welsh gold jewellery a distinctive reddish or rose gold tint, contributing to its unique appeal.

How to Identify Authentic Welsh Gold

Authentic Welsh gold jewellery will bear the standard UK assay office hallmarks (such as 375 for 9ct, 585 for 14ct, or 750 for 18ct purity). It will also carry the maker's or sponsor's mark. For Clogau Gold, this is typically "CG." Furthermore, Clogau Gold pieces are famously stamped with the dragon symbol, a powerful emblem of Wales. The regalia worn by the Prince of Wales also carries the dragon symbol.

Historically, the Gwynfynydd mine used the Welsh Maiden symbol as a mark of authenticity for gold unblended with other golds, making pieces bearing this highly sought-after symbol.

In Conclusion: The Enduring Legacy of Welsh Gold

In the enchanting world of precious metals, Welsh gold holds a place of unparalleled prestige. Its rarity, steeped in the mystique of Wales's breathtaking mountains and valleys, makes it a truly unique treasure. From its ancient origins and royal patronage to its distinctive charm, the history of Welsh gold is as rich and captivating as the metal itself.

Through the artistry of revered jewellers like Clogau Gold of Wales, this precious metal continues its shimmering journey, transforming into exquisite pieces that capture its legacy. Each item, whether adorned with traditional Welsh motifs or contemporary designs, carries a trace of this extraordinary gold, allowing you to own a piece of history and romance.

We truly hope the sun has not set permanently on the Welsh gold mines, especially with the tantalising hints of further significant deposits in Snowdonia's hills. Regardless, Welsh gold remains a testament to the beautiful bond between nature's treasures, skilled craftsmanship, and the enduring allure of something truly rare and special.

Sources

Clogau Gold of Wales