What are precious metals? They are a common symbol of privilege and affluence. They are also a set of elements that are considered economically valuable and or extremely rare. While this very rarity is a determining factor of a mineral’s value, other aspects contribute to a metal’s monetary valuation.
The elements defined as ‘precious’ have a variety of characteristics in common. They all have a high melting point, are very soft, and can be polished to a high sheen. This makes these minerals perfect for creating attractive-looking jewelry. Also, as opposed to other metallic groupings, the ones in this category have a very low level of chemical reactivity.
Although gold and silver have traditionally been identified by people as precious, many other elements fall under this title as well. These include the members of the Platinum Group, which are: rhodium, osmium, iridium, ruthenium, palladium, and of course, platinum. Found in the same section of the periodic table, these elements also occur together in the same mineral deposits.
Coveted for its shiny yellow colour and ability to withstand oxidization, gold has had a consistent role throughout human history. The Mali Empire, Greeks, Egyptians, and Aztecs are but a few of the ancient civilizations that valued gold and used it as a sign of affluence. It was commonly used for jewelry, coinage, and decorations.
Silver has an equally extensive history of use. It is a brilliant white metal that becomes very lustrous with polishing. In addition to its applications in jewelry and coinage, silver has traditionally been seen as a purifying element. Ancient peoples used silver to prevent infection, disinfect water and foods, and to dress burns and wounds. Modern science has found silver to have antimicrobial properties, proving those ancients wise beyond their times.
Although gold and silver have always been the favourites when it comes to precious metals, platinum has recently become much more popular, resulting in an increase in its monetary worth. It has been discovered that platinum is actually one of the rarest naturally occurring substances on earth. Like its shiny cousins, platinum is also used in jewelry making and is now especially sought after in the creation of wedding bands and fashionable watches. It also has uses in the medical fields and vehicular industries.
The other members of the Platinum Group are similar to platinum in that they are silvery-white in colour and are also used for the creation of jewelry. Additionally, these elements have very strong catalytic properties, which make them ideal for use by the science and technology communities. They have a variety of applications, some of which include solar energy conversion, photography, data storage, and surgical implants.
Notwithstanding their different uses, precious metals are set apart from other more common elements by what they have in common. These commonalities can be identified as a high economic value, low chemical reactivity, and a lustrous, malleable quality that make them perfect for jewelry and ornamentation. This variety of uses and sheer scarcity in nature make them a tempting investment opportunity.
What are precious metals is a question many individuals ask. If you are interested in gold & silver right now, we have some information just for you. You should come check this stuff out.

No Comments so far ↓
There are no comments yet...Kick things off by filling out the form below.