Precious metals are used in various fields

Supporting you today and tomorrow

When you think of precious metals, what comes to mind? You may picture jewelry or gold bars and assume precious metals have little to do with you. However, they are actually part of your everyday life.

Precious metals are used in the components and materials of everyday smartphones, computers and home appliances due to their excellent corrosion-resistance, workability, electrical conductivity, heat resistance and other properties,

They are also used in fields that require cutting-edge technology and a high level of safety, such as next-generation environmentally friendly energy, space exploration and medicine. As times change and technology evolves, precious metal applications will likely keep expanding. Let's take a look at some examples of their use.

Supporting the energy of the future

Fuel cells, which are gaining attention as a next-generation energy supply method, use platinum as a catalyst to convert hydrogen and oxygen to electrical energy in a clean, environmentally friendly way that emits only heat and water as byproducts.

The solar panels of photovoltaic systems contain silver. Clearly, precious metals are indispensable for a sustainable future.

Making a difference in the field of medicine

Next, let's take a look at the field of medicine. In some cases, platinum and iridium medical instruments are used in catheter procedures that treat arteriosclerosis and myocardial infarction.

Gold is used as a coloring agent in the detection lines of in vitro diagnostic kits for pregnancy and virus testing. Precious metals are also being used in anti-cancer drugs, reagents, pharmaceuticals for cutting-edge medical treatments, and other new applications due to recent advanced research on their chemical properties.

It may seem surprising that precious metals support our health in such ways.

Making space exploration possible

Precious metals also support space exploration. Rocket engine components are secured using “precious metal solder” adhesives made of gold, silver and palladium to withstand the harsh conditions of space.

Satellites essential for broadcasting and communications are protected from external heat by thermal blankets containing silver. Said to have arrived from outer space eons ago, precious metals are now supporting mankind's advance into space.

Gold as an asset

Gold is a real asset that holds intrinsic value. Unlike stocks and bonds, which can lose all their value depending on the circumstances of the company or country issuing them, gold has remained valuable for over 6,000 years since its discovery.
Even today, central banks around the world stockpile gold as a national asset, solidifying its value as a reliable investment and a key element of a diversified portfolio.

Precious metal jewelry captivates the heart

Precious metal jewelry and art objects have always captured people's hearts.
The craftsmanship of skilled artisans further enhances the value, beauty and emotional appeal of precious metals. At TANAKA, our high-quality jewelry and crafts offer a variety of ways to own and enjoy gold.