Gold production refers to the process of extracting gold from the earth, primarily through mining. This involves locating gold deposits, which can be found in various forms, such as gold ore or alluvial deposits. Once identified, miners use techniques like open-pit mining or underground mining to extract the gold, which is then processed to separate it from other materials. The global gold production is measured in metric tons and varies by country. Major producers include China, Australia, and Russia, which contribute significantly to the world's supply. The production process also includes refining, where the extracted gold is purified to meet market standards before being sold.