väärismetallist

Väärismetall is a Finnish term that translates to "precious metal." It refers to a group of rare, naturally occurring metallic chemical elements that have high economic value due to their scarcity and desirable properties. The most commonly recognized precious metals are gold, silver, platinum, and palladium. Other platinum-group metals like rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium are also considered precious metals.

These metals are prized for their distinctive characteristics, including resistance to corrosion and oxidation, their unique luster, and their malleability and ductility. Historically, precious metals have been used as a medium of exchange, forming the basis of monetary systems through coinage and bullion. Today, their value is also derived from their industrial applications, particularly in electronics, dentistry, and catalytic converters for vehicles, where their chemical properties are essential.

The rarity of precious metals is a primary driver of their value. They are typically found in low concentrations in the Earth's crust, and their extraction and refining processes can be complex and costly. This scarcity, combined with consistent demand from both industrial and investment sectors, contributes to their enduring market price. Investors often turn to precious metals as a store of value, particularly during times of economic uncertainty or inflation, viewing them as a hedge against currency devaluation.