precious metal
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precious metal
A rare and chemically stable metal that does not corrode, or corrodes only slowly. Precious metals include mainly gold, silver, platinum, and palladium, which are used for jewelry, coins, and as investments.
Gold ist das bekannteste Edelmetall und gilt seit jeher als sichere Wertanlage.
Gold is the best-known precious metal and has always been considered a safe investment.
The word is a clear compound of 'edel' (noble, in the sense of valuable, durable) and 'Metall' (metal). So it literally refers to a 'wertvolles Metall' (valuable metal).
Schmuck aus einem Edelmetall ist oft ein Zeichen für Luxus.
Jewelry made of a precious metal is often a sign of luxury.
Since precious metals often serve as investments, you will frequently hear the phrase 'in Edelmetalle investieren' (to invest in precious metals). Other typical expressions are 'aus Edelmetall gefertigt sein' (to be made of precious metal) or 'mit Edelmetallen handeln' (to trade in precious metals).
Viele Anleger investieren in Krisenzeiten in Edelmetalle.
Many investors invest in precious metals during times of crisis.
The plural 'die Edelmetalle' (precious metals) is used when talking about different types of valuable metals. The best-known precious metals are gold, silver, and platinum.
Die Nachfrage nach seltenen Edelmetallen ist in den letzten Jahren gestiegen.
Demand for rare precious metals has increased in recent years.
metal
'Metall' and 'Edelmetall' belong to the same area, but they are not the same. 'Metall' is the general umbrella term for substances such as iron, copper, aluminum, gold, or silver. 'Edelmetall' is a special type of metal that is rare and very stable, for example gold, silver, or platinum. The words can be confused because every precious metal is a metal. But not every metal is a precious metal. When talking about jewelry, coins, or investments, 'Edelmetall' is often more precise.
Für den Ring verwendet die Goldschmiedin ein teures Edelmetall.
The goldsmith uses an expensive precious metal for the ring.
Der Tisch hat Beine aus Metall und ist deshalb sehr stabil.
The table has metal legs and is therefore very sturdy.