Precious Metals

What does it Mean? A classification of metals that are considered to be rare and/or have a high economic value. The higher relative values of these metals are driven by various factors including their rarity, uses in industrial processes and use as an investment commodity.

Precious metals include, but are not limted to: gold, silver, platinum, iridium, rhodium and palladium.

 
Investopedia Says... Investing in precious metals can be done either by purchasing the physical asset, or by purchasing futures contracts for the particular metal. Another way to gain investment exposure to precious metals is to purchase shares in publicly traded companies that deal in the exploration or production of precious metals, such as a gold mining company. 

Terms Related Links

Alternative Assets
Bullion
COMEX
Fool's Gold
Futures Contract
Ingot
Iridium
Palladium
Platinum
Silver

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