The world has mined around 222,600 tonnes of gold over history, with jewellery accounting for the largest share of the above-ground stock.
1/3How much gold has ever been mined?
Around 222,600 tonnes of gold have been mined throughout history, according to the figures in the infographic. Nearly two-thirds of all the gold extracted across history has been mined since 1950. The scale of the total quantity is striking: all the gold ever mined could fit into a single cube measuring approximately 22.6 metres (74 feet) on each side. This gives an idea of how much gold has been extracted from the earth over time.
2/3How is all the above-ground gold held?
The total above-ground stock of gold in the world stood at approximately 224,200 tonnes as of Q3 2026. Jewellery accounts for the largest share, holding around 98,700 tonnes, or 44% of the total. Bars, coins and gold exchange-traded funds (ETFs) account for approximately 52,400 tonnes, representing 23%. Central banks hold around 39,300 tonnes, or 18%, while over-the-counter (OTC) and other holdings make up the remaining 33,800 tonnes, or 15%.
(Photo Credit : CNBC-TV18 Library )
3/3How much gold is still underground?
Gold reserves and resources represent the quantities of the metal that remain underground and have not yet been mined. According to the figures in the infographic, approximately 61,000 tonnes of gold are classified as reserves. These are deposits that are economically feasible to mine. Another estimated 114,400 tonnes are classified as resources. This gold is believed to exist but has not yet been validated or established as economically viable for extraction. Further exploration or improved technology could make some of these resources mineable.