Precious metal Meaning: Definition, Examples, and Translations

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precious metal

[ˈpreʃəs ˈmɛtəl ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

investment

A rare and valuable metal, often used as a store of value or for investment purposes. Precious metals include gold, silver, platinum, and palladium.

Synonyms

rare metal, valuable metal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
precious metal	Used when referring to metals that are highly valued and traditionally considered luxurious or important, like gold, silver, and platinum. Gold is a precious metal often used in jewelry. Investors frequently buy precious metals as a hedge against inflation.
rare metal	Used when highlighting the scarcity or limited availability of a metal. Rare metals are often critical for advanced technologies and industries. Rare metals like tantalum are essential for the production of electronics. The demand for rare metals has increased due to advancements in renewable energy technology.
valuable metal	Used in a more general sense to describe any metal that has high economic value, which can include both precious and rare metals. Copper is a valuable metal used in electrical wiring and plumbing. Investing in valuable metals can diversify your portfolio.

Word

Description / Examples

precious metal

Used when referring to metals that are highly valued and traditionally considered luxurious or important, like gold, silver, and platinum.

Gold is a precious metal often used in jewelry.
Investors frequently buy precious metals as a hedge against inflation.

rare metal

Used when highlighting the scarcity or limited availability of a metal. Rare metals are often critical for advanced technologies and industries.

Rare metals like tantalum are essential for the production of electronics.
The demand for rare metals has increased due to advancements in renewable energy technology.

valuable metal

Used in a more general sense to describe any metal that has high economic value, which can include both precious and rare metals.

Copper is a valuable metal used in electrical wiring and plumbing.
Investing in valuable metals can diversify your portfolio.

Examples of usage

Many investors consider precious metals a safe haven during economic uncertainty.
Precious metals are often traded on commodity exchanges worldwide.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

jewelry

A type of metal that is highly valued for its beauty and rarity, commonly used in the production of luxury items such as jewelry and watches.

Synonyms

fine metal, luxury metal.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
precious metal	Again, this term emphasizes rarity and value. This repeat indicates no change in context or examples. Gold is one of the most well-known precious metals, often used in jewelry and investments. Investors often buy precious metals as a safeguard against inflation.
fine metal	Use this term when referring to the purity and high quality of metal, often in contexts relating to crafting, such as jewelry making or coin production. The coin was minted from fine metal, ensuring its purity and quality. Jewelry produced from fine metal tends to be more durable and valuable.
luxury metal	This term is ideal when talking about metals used in high-end products and luxury goods, emphasizing their association with wealth and opulence. Platinum is considered a luxury metal, often found in designer watches and high-end cars. The luxury metal finish on the new smartphone makes it stand out in the market.

Word

Description / Examples

precious metal

Again, this term emphasizes rarity and value. This repeat indicates no change in context or examples.

Gold is one of the most well-known precious metals, often used in jewelry and investments.
Investors often buy precious metals as a safeguard against inflation.

fine metal

Use this term when referring to the purity and high quality of metal, often in contexts relating to crafting, such as jewelry making or coin production.

The coin was minted from fine metal, ensuring its purity and quality.
Jewelry produced from fine metal tends to be more durable and valuable.

luxury metal

This term is ideal when talking about metals used in high-end products and luxury goods, emphasizing their association with wealth and opulence.

Platinum is considered a luxury metal, often found in designer watches and high-end cars.
The luxury metal finish on the new smartphone makes it stand out in the market.

Examples of usage

She wore a necklace adorned with precious metals and gemstones.
The watch was made of precious metal and had intricate engravings.

Translations

To see the translation, please select a language from the options available.

Origin of 'precious metal'

The use of precious metals dates back thousands of years, with civilizations valuing these metals for their rarity and beauty. Gold, in particular, has held a special significance throughout history, often associated with wealth, power, and prestige. Silver, platinum, and palladium have also played important roles in various cultures, symbolizing luxury and prosperity. Today, precious metals continue to hold value as both investment assets and decorative materials in the jewelry industry.