MYTH OF GOLD: The Magic Metal Born from Stardust | WELT Documentary

The script introduces gold as a symbol of wealth, power, and divinity, highlighting its rarity and the hard work required to obtain it. It discusses the metal's supernatural beauty and its origins from stardust, which fuels its allure. The story follows Kevin Basovich and Robin Vice Lea, who are searching for gold in the Thuringian Forest in Germany, carrying heavy bags with tools and provisions. They discuss the signs to look for in their search, such as quartz veins, which may indicate the presence of gold. The history of gold mining in the area dates back to the Middle Ages, with tales of miners extracting significant amounts of gold. The two friends are driven by the love of the search rather than the prospect of wealth, appreciating even the smallest finds as valuable.

This paragraph delves into the mythical aspect of gold, referencing the legend of Reinold and the treasure of Nalón, which involves betrayal, murder, and a curse. It speaks to the global pursuit of gold, inspired by legends and real reports, from the ocean floor to geological formations. The narrative also touches on the failure of alchemy to produce gold and the mystical quest for a life-changing moment or redemption. The story returns to the Thuringian mountains, where treasure hunters have left their mark, and follows Kevin and Robin's journey, who despite the adversities and the demanding nature of prospecting, remain hopeful and driven by the thrill of discovery.

The focus shifts to the story of the Big Maple Leaf, the largest gold coin in the world, bought by entrepreneur and art collector Boas Fuksman. The coin, as big as a wagon wheel and minted from 100 kg of pure gold, was stolen from the BHA Museum in Berlin in the biggest gold heist in Germany's criminal history. The investigation led by Detective Inspector Rene Al revealed the thieves' method of entry and exit, which involved a daring nighttime theft using a wheelbarrow and taking advantage of the city railway's schedule. The coin's unique purity and the traces of gold left behind were crucial in solving the case and convicting the perpetrators, who were part of Berlin's Remo Clan. However, the coin was never recovered, and only gold dust remained, suggesting it was cut and melted down.

This paragraph explores gold's historical significance, from the Spanish conquistadors' theft of Incan gold leading to the first world inflation to the North American Gold Rush with its tales of violence, robbery, and death. It discusses the enduring hope of prospectors to strike it rich and the reality that most did not, with the sellers of mining equipment often faring better. The narrative also touches on the ubiquity of gold in German rivers and the modern-day hobby of gold panning, which Kevin and Robin partake in, seeking not life-changing wealth but the joy of discovery.

The script explains the cosmic origins of gold, formed in supernova explosions and neutron star collisions, and its presence throughout the universe. It discusses the challenges and high costs of modern gold mining, the depletion of easily accessible deposits, and the environmental impact of the industry. The narrative introduces the concept of urban mining, recycling gold from electronic waste, as practiced by entrepreneur and jewelry maker Guya Merla. This method not only closes the loop on gold recycling but also provides a sustainable alternative to traditional mining, with high gold prices making it a worthwhile endeavor.

The story of Guya Merla continues, who after experiencing the harsh realities of gold mining in developing countries, decided to use only recycled gold in her jewelry. She founded her company following a bankruptcy and now helps miners transition to safer, more sustainable livelihoods, such as producing Liquid Gold honey. Merla's work has been recognized by celebrities like Rihanna and Emma Watson, who have worn her cell phone gold rings. The paragraph also highlights the potential of urban mining, with millions of old cell phones in Germany alone containing a significant amount of gold that could be repurposed into jewelry.

The narrative takes us to the Bundesbank in Frankfurt, where Germany's largest gold reserves are securely stored. The bank's board member describes the awe-inspiring sight of the vast amounts of gold, which are tested for authenticity using methods like ultrasound. The gold reserves are a symbol of security and stability, especially in times of crisis. The story also touches on the repatriation of Germany's gold from New York and Paris, ensuring the integrity and safety of the nation's wealth.

The script concludes with Kevin and Robin's gold prospecting adventures, detailing their meticulous collection and organization of the gold they have found. They share stories and memories attached to each piece of gold, reflecting on the hours spent in search of this precious metal. The value of their collection is not measured in monetary terms but in the experience and joy of the pursuit. The narrative emphasizes the multifaceted nature of gold, from an object of desire and luxury to an investment and a source of inspiration, and its enduring appeal as a magical and timeless treasure.