This Seeking Tech guide will show you how to find the first Gold Beetle, which is easily missable if you don’t pay attention, in Metaphor ReFantazio.
After you beat the first boss in the game, you will end up on the Mountain Forest Camp at the Border Fort Grounds. When you are able to control your character, turn the camera around 180-degrees and you should see a sparkle next to a tree. Make sure to grab it before you rest.
Otherwise, you won’t be able to return to this location.