noun
Refers to the metal gold itself, often in a literal or material sense.
この指輪は純粋な黄金でできている。
This ring is made of pure gold.
noun which may take the genitive case particle 'no', noun
Figurative use: describes something that is golden in color, highly valuable, prosperous, or of the highest quality. Often used in set phrases like 黄金時代 (golden age).
彼は黄金のチャンスを逃した。
He missed a golden opportunity.
これは黄金時代の映画だ。
This is a film from the golden age.
noun
Historical or literary use referring to money, especially large gold coins like the ōban. Not used for modern currency.
See also: 大判
江戸時代、黄金は大判として流通した。
In the Edo period, gold circulated as ōban coins.