The physical dimensions that constitute a troy ounce of gold are relatively small. While the weight is precisely defined (31.1034768 grams), its volume depends on the form it takes. Gold bullion, commonly found as coins or bars, assumes shapes dictated by manufacturing processes. A typical gold coin, for example, might have a diameter of around 32.7 millimeters and a thickness of 2.8 millimeters, while a bar’s dimensions vary based on its weight and mint.
Understanding the density of gold is crucial. As a very dense metal, a troy ounce occupies a limited space, conveying substantial value within its compact form. This characteristic has contributed to gold’s historical significance as a store of wealth and a medium of exchange. Its relative scarcity and physical properties have made it a highly prized material for jewelry, industrial applications, and investment purposes, underpinning its economic and cultural importance for millennia.