Everyone gets caught up in the bling. In fact, we’ve spent much of our time posting stories about some of the world’s most expensive diamonds. Let us not forget that most of the time, diamonds come with some sort of metal – and it’s usually a precious metal and it’s not cheap. Paying respect to some of the world’s rarest and most expensive metals. Here are the top 5…
5. Iridium – $13,548/kg
The whitish metal is one of the rarest on earth. It has an amazingly high melting point and is one of the densest metals on the planet. Because of it’s extreme properties it’s one of the hardest metals to manipulate. It is the prize focus of jewelers because essentially nothing can effect the shine-factor of Iridium
4. Ruthenium – $13,548/kg
This grayish metal was discovered in 1844. It’s the ‘tough’ member of the platinum family. It’s amazingly dense and able to withstand extremely difficult conditions. It can be added to other precious metals in expensive projects to increase hardness. It’s become increasingly popular in the electronics world, but comes at a hefty price.
3. Platinum – $38,290/kg
Platinum’s popularity has grown tremendously over the past few years. This dazzling silver metal can certainly drain your bank account quickly. It’s a mainstay in the jewelry world because of its lustrous look and remarkable resistance. Platinum is also used in dentistry, weaponry and aeronautics.
2. Gold – $40,290/kg
Good old gold comes in at number two. Gold is one of the most popular metals and investment options. It’s had a relatively up and down history, its desirability, durability, and sheer beauty make it a consistently expensive metal. Gold isn’t just for your finger, necklace or earrings – it has terrific uses in technology and other applications.
1. Rhodium – $46,516/kg
The world’s most expensive metal is probably something you’ve never heard of – yet it can be used in everyday applications like lights, mirrors and jewelry finishes. It has all the qualities the rare and impressive metals have, but it’s also extremely rare – like only found in a couple places in the world. It’s rare enough that music legend Paul McCartney was presented with a rhodium disc by the Guiness Book of World Records.
Image via Softpedia
