Precious metals have been a source of wonder, awe and economic exchange for thousands of years. But what is it about them that makes them so valuable? Why are precious metals still in high demand, even to this day? And what makes precious metals investments such assets for the modern investor?

Here are a few insights into four of the most famous valued elements and how to collect them, from physical metals to EFTs.

Gold: The intrinsic asset of precious metals

Gold is likely the most well-known precious metal with its first uses dating back beyond 4,000 B.C.. It is one of the precious metals used in a wide variety of applications, from medical advances for chronic conditions to a source of stability during periods of economic uncertainty.

Physical precious metals like gold maintain their usefulness because they have typically been identified as an element of value to an economy-bound society. It makes an astonishing investment piece because it doesn’t lose its physical luster or intrinsic value, regardless of currency attachment. Durability in mind, gold has also become a heavily diverse asset, appearing as physical gold bullion, coins, exchange-traded funds (gold ETFs) and other mediums, making it a still highly-desirable metal.

Silver: The scientific metal

Silver is the second precious metal readily available and meeting all the criteria for currency. However, silver is also used in several different technological and scientific applications. It can withstand excessive heat and electricity while refraining from oxidizing or corroding when under stress. Because of these traits, silver continues to hold its demand in the market due to its wide range of uses, including batteries, consumer electronics, medical technologies and other engineering applications.

Silver is also a noble metal used to make jewelry, currency and other valuable items that can be passed through the years with little to no damage. While silver coins and jewelry are some of the more notable ways to commemorate this precious metal, silver bullion, mining stocks and silver ETFs are also acceptable means of collecting and investing in it.

Platinum: The rising metal

Precious metals like platinum are excellent for individuals looking to diversify their precious metals portfolios or collections. While platinum is among the more rare elements, it is still feasible to invest in the physical metal or precious metal ETFs.

Platinum investments appear to be a trend that will continue based on the uses for the platinum industry. For example, platinum’s durability and usefulness in areas such as dentistry, electronics and engineering will continuously keep it in high demand. It also has the allure of being more mysterious than its gold counterpart, giving it an edge in the intrinsic value department.

Palladium: The denses of precious metals

Like it’s counterparts, palladium is used in a wide variety of industries. However, it branches out into musical instruments, aerospace engineering and surgical equipment. These are highly progressive industries that will continue to wrack up demand for palladium, which could potentially drive its value up further.

Palladium can be bought and invested in just like the other noble metals. It can be collected as bullion bars, coins, heirlooms and objects, ETFs and stocks. Palladium is already among the most expensive metals and tends to sit at a particularly high price point per ounce. However, given the probability of this metal to rise further, investing in either physical palladium or palladium ETFs and stocks is still recommended for those looking to diversify their precious metals portfolio.

Whether you’re looking to buy precious metals as physical bullion or start investing in electronic methods of holding these elements, it’s always a good idea to assess your paths with a professional who can help you with your investment strategy or start your collection. For those looking to sell precious metals, finding an online dealer is the easiest way to start the process. They’ll be able to appraise your assets, give you a fair number and continue the business transaction to completion.

Regardless of the outcome, learning about and investing in precious metals is always a good place to start diversifying portfolios, collections and hobbies.