With inflation sticking around like a bad houseguest, geopolitical tensions heating up, and market swings keeping everyone on edge, gold is shining brighter than ever as a safe-haven investment. In fact, it’s long been trusted for its stability—and for good reason: gold has climbed more than 150% in value over the past decade. Whether you're a first-time investor, looking to shield your wealth from economic turmoil or build your long-term savings, avoiding beginner mistakes is key. Before you jump in, make sure you're not sabotaging your gold journey from the start. Here are 10 classic beginner mistakes to avoid if you're planning to invest in gold this year—so you can do it safe and smart.