As an investor, it is not special. In fact, I say it is less special. I cannot look at gold and see its intrinsic value, determine when it is undervalued and overvalued and make decisions on whether to buy or sell based on that value. The price of gold is tied strictly to the emotions behind it, as well as the emotions seen in markets world wide, and in some small measure to its availability... but primarily, its price (and value) are driven by emotion. Thus, I cannot accurately predict its value other than to try to guess the appetite of the world in the near future for gold. That strikes me as speculative market timing, which is not for me.
I can achieve similar returns via other means. I understand others hold it as a hedge against oblivion and market crashes.
You're hooked, I got it. Not for me, thanks.