Expectations for gold in 2015 vary widely from a 30 percent increase to a drop to $960-1000 per ounce.  Regardless of the actual trend that will develop over the year, gold will most likely continue to be a valuable commodity and a long-term investment. As an investment option, gold poses a unique dilemma for its owners. It is different from some other forms of investment, such as stocks and bonds, because it needs to be kept and protected. 

A number of gold buyers do not trust the dependability of banks or bank safes, so they look for creative ways to stash their gold. Here are a couple of interesting options.

Now you see it, now you don't

One of the ways that gold can be hidden is by leaving it in plain sight in and around the house. Most people might not be expecting your gold bar to be masquerading as a doorstop or paperweight. They might also fail to anticipate that the antique lamp with the pretty shade full of round medallions is really decorated with gold coins. In fact, if you were to ensure that no one knows that you have any gold to speak of, you might be even more successful at hiding it in clear view.

If you are deciding to hide your gold in such a manner, it is suggested that you find a way to paint the metal in a different color so that it can effectively complete the masquerade. One color that might be quite effective for the doorstop or paperweight is black, while copper might be more effective for the coins. Another more time-consuming suggestion is to coat the gold with a less precious metal.

It's in the depth 

You can put your gold in a safe too. A solid safe can cost anywhere between $2,000 and $40,000. It is also recommended that the safe you get should have a TL-30 rating, which means that it is certified to resist a tool-carrying thief for at least 30 minutes. However, there are those who have preferred to go the cheaper route and have simply buried their gold. The options for burial can vary between the ground and the closest koi or water lily pond.

To bury your gold bars or coins (even jewelry), it is recommended that you place them at a depth of at least 4 feet and cover them with asbestos or mirrors to prevent detection by metal detectors. This is because a good metal detector can snuff out metals that are buried at 12 to 14 inches deep.

When you're ready to cash out on your gold, take it to a gold buyer, like The Jewelry Buyer, to receive money for your valuables.