Precious & industrial metals, explained
Objective, plain-English guides to how different metals have behaved through history and across market conditions, and which of them the IRS approves for precious-metals IRAs.
IRS-approved precious metals
The four metals eligible for a self-directed precious-metals IRA.
Gold
IRAThe classic store of value and most widely held IRA metal.
In our rankings →AgSilver
IRALower price point with industrial demand; historically more volatile than gold.
In our rankings →PtPlatinum
IRAA precious metal with heavy industrial demand, historically scarcer than gold.
Read the guide →PdPalladium
IRAAn IRS-approved precious metal driven mainly by industrial demand, historically volatile.
Read the guide →Base & industrial metals (for contrast)
Not IRS-approved for IRAs, included to explain why precious metals differ.
Educational information only, not financial, tax, or investment advice. Metal eligibility for IRAs is set by the IRS and can change. All metals investing involves risk, including possible loss of principal.
Precious vs. Industrial Metals Cheat Sheet
A one-page, plain-English breakdown of how gold, silver, platinum, and palladium differ from base metals like copper and bronze, including which are IRS-approved for IRAs.
- ✓ Precious vs. base metals, side by side
- ✓ Which metals are IRS-approved (and the fineness rules)
- ✓ What historically drives each metal's price
Curious how different metals behave in a self-directed IRA?
Take our 60-second Wealth Quiz to see which options may fit your situation, or request a free, no-obligation consultation to understand your choices.
Educational information only, not financial, tax, or investment advice. A consultation carries no obligation.