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The Rise of Silver as an Investment

Whilst silver has previously slipped into obscurity in comparison to gold, it now generates just as much interest within the investment world. This increased intrigue is largely down to the fact that silver can be classed as a base metal, along with others such as nickel, zinc and copper.

Being considered both a precious metal and an industrial metal means that silver provides two potential profitable opportunities; the first being that if the economy continues to recover and industrial demand rises again, and secondly as an inflation hedge if economies do not pick up as successfully as anticipated.

This precious metal cost around Rs 8,000 per kg in 2008 and has now shot up spectacularly to Rs 53,550 per kg at the beginning of 2012. According to precious metal analysts, the trend of silver price appreciation is not out of the ordinary. There is increasing apprehension regarding the limited silver reserves left in the world, which has also sparked investors' interest in this particular metal.

During the past five years, silver investors have seen a staggering return and in fact it has proven to be one of the best investments for the last ten years. Bearing in mind the current financial climate and the debt crisis around the world, the rise of silver as an attractive investment is a positive move.

There are numerous ways in which you may invest or trade in silver, but the traditional method is to buy a silver bullion bar, which in some countries such as Switzerland can be purchased in high street banks. A silver bullion bar can vary in size from 1oz to 1000oz in weight. For most however, silver is considered more of a treasured decorative contribution to their home. Unlike some gold pieces, silver has remained modern and popular whether in the form of cutlery, bowls or christening sets like those available at Bryan Douglas Antique Silver.

If you are looking to purchase some unique silverware pieces for your home, be sure to investigate the quality beforehand. The minimum standard of silver in Britain has always been set at the Sterling Standard 92.5% and is represented by the Lion stamp, either Passant for English or Rampant for Scottish. Silver marked in this manner will be more costly, but will also remain more valuable long-term. By investing in antique silver, you also get to enjoy the item as well as making an investment, so over the years silver will prove its value in more ways than one.



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