Definition of Noble Metal

Types

• According to the Encyclopædia Britannica, the noble metals are gold, osmium, platinum, iridium, rhenium, ruthenium, rhodium, palladium, and silver. Because "noble metal" is something of a relative term, other lists add or subtract metals from this core list.

Features

• Many metals resist oxidation or corrosion in a controlled climate, but noble metals have resistance even at high temperatures or in moist air.

Benefits

• Because they are resistant to rust, noble metals are useful for construction applications as well as in decorative furniture or jewelry.

Considerations

• Don't confuse noble metals with precious metals, a term indicating rare metals of high economic value. Though there is overlap between the classifications, they aren't the same.

Fun Fact

• Noble metals are among the rarest in nature, which makes them quite valuable.