Shape and size controlled synthesis of gold particles has been studied by using wet-chemical method. When ${AuCl_4}^-$ in aqueous $HAuCl_4$ precursor was reduced using $Na_2SO_3$ as a reducing agent, mixtures of spherical, triangular and hexagonal particles were prepared in a few minutes. It was found that the shape selective oxidative etching by ${AuCl_4}^-;+;Cl^-$ anions and crystal growth took place simultaneously. As the ${AuCl_4}^-$ and $Cl^-$ concentration increased, yields of large triangular and hexagonal plate type particles increased, while the spherical particles decreased in most cases. Possible etching and growth mechanisms are discussed.