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Precious Metals

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Price Fluctuations in Precious Metals
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Precious Metals

Any of several metals, including gold and sterling silver that have high economic value are considered precious metals.  Chemically, the precious metals are less reactive than most elements, have high luster, and have higher melting points than other metals. Historically, precious metals were important as currency, but are now regarded mainly as investment and industrial commodities. Investing in precious metals can be done either by purchasing the physical asset, or by purchasing futures contracts for the particular metal.  The best-known precious metals are gold and silver. While both have industrial uses, they are better known for their uses in art, jewelry, and coinage.