The name is very evocative and that is what counts here.

Since it was famous.. or infamous.. for the gold rush, I suppose this is appropriate.

It lends a rather majestic feel to California and after visiting the state quite a few times, I'm pretty sure that the nickname is well deserved. Though platinum would have sounded more unique, I suppose it doesn't roll as well off the tounge. Wow...I really should get back to doing something productive...

You could think of this on several levels - the gold rush, golden tans, or the golden glitter of Hollywood. Good choice.

A little tarnished right now from a decade of Earthquakes, fires, floods, riots and high profile celebrity trials. (boy, that sounded depressing) But we're working hard to bring that luster back to the Golden State. Pride in my state will not allow me to give it less than a five. Make of that what you will!