When many investors think of precious metals, they likely picture gold coins and bars. While these items may be a great addition to an investment portfolio, there are many other forms of precious metals that can also have value in a modern economy.

For instance, precious metals such as silver and platinum have industrial uses, as well. They can be found in electronics, dental products and automobiles, among other things. Investors with a keen interest in diversifying their portfolio may want to consider these alternatives, as they offer unique ways to increase returns and mitigate investment risks.

The benefits of precious metals investing include their ability to protect against inflation, geopolitical turmoil and other financial challenges. For this reason, they have become an integral part of many investment portfolios. When interest rates are low, traditional income-generating assets can provide minimal returns, leading some investors to seek alternative options. In this case, precious metals like gold and silver can offer protection against economic downturns by serving as a store of value.

Another benefit of precious metals is their relative liquidity. While it is difficult to put a number on how much a person should invest in precious metals, it may be helpful for investors to look at their current investment portfolio and explore historical market shifts, inflation estimates, risk tolerance and more when determining an initial investment amount.

Unlike stocks and mutual funds, which are often traded on exchanges and can be liquidated at any time, physical precious metals must be stored safely to maintain their value. Furthermore, selling them can be a complicated process that involves a capital gains tax, finding a buyer and transporting the item from its storage location. This can create hurdles for some investors, making precious metals less accessible than other types of investments.

Investors can reduce the risks of precious metals investing by working with reputable online retailers to purchase their assets. It is important to review the purity and authenticity of each piece of jewelry or coin prior to completing a transaction, as this information should be readily available from sellers online. Additionally, it is wise to ask how salespeople are compensated prior to purchasing their product, as this information could impact the integrity of an investment.

As with any investment, it is vital to monitor precious metals prices, both before and after investing in them. Several factors can influence prices, including Federal Reserve policy, investor demand, mining supply and more. Investors should also be aware that precious metals are not interest- or income-producing, so they do not provide a steady stream of revenue for investors.

In the past, it was common for people to hold on to their precious metals, as they served as a way to preserve wealth for future generations. Today, this tradition has taken on new meanings for the average American, as many of us are now focused on preserving our wealth and passing it down to our children. If you are interested in gold buying and selling in Philadelphia make sure you partner with a reputable gold dealer in the area.