What is the most expensive non-ferrous metal?

The most expensive non-ferrous metal is rhodium.
It is rare, highly reflective, and resistant to corrosion.
Rhodium is mainly used in catalytic converters, jewelry, and specialized industrial applications.
Its high demand and limited supply make it extremely valuable.

The most expensive non-ferrous metal is generally considered to be Rhodium (Rh). Let me explain in detail why, along with characteristics, applications, and factors affecting its price.

1. Definition of Non-Ferrous Metals

Non-ferrous metals are metals that do not contain significant amounts of iron.
They are generally resistant to corrosion, lightweight, and have good electrical and thermal conductivity.

Examples:

Copper (Cu)
Aluminium (Al)
Nickel (Ni)
Lead (Pb)
Zinc (Zn)
Precious metals: Gold (Au), Silver (Ag), Platinum (Pt), Rhodium (Rh)

2. Rhodium – The Most Expensive Non-Ferrous Metal

2.1 Basic Information

Symbol: Rh
Atomic number: 45
Density: 12.41 g/cm³
Melting point: 1964 °C
Color: Silvery-white metallic

2.2 Properties

Extremely rare in the earth’s crust
High melting point → excellent for high-temperature applications
Corrosion-resistant → does not tarnish easily
Hard and reflective → used for coating and jewelry
Chemically stable → resistant to acids
Excellent catalytic properties → used in chemical reactions

2.3 Occurrence

Rhodium is a platinum group metal (PGM).
Found mostly in platinum and nickel ores.
Major producers: South Africa, Russia, Canada, Zimbabwe.

2.4 Reasons for High Cost

Rarity – Very small amount mined each year (less than 30 tonnes annually worldwide).
High demand in industry – Used in catalytic converters, electronics, and jewelry.
Difficult extraction – Complex refining process.
Price volatility – Price fluctuates significantly based on industrial demand and mining output.

Price range:

Rhodium is much more expensive than gold and platinum, often reaching $10,000–$15,000 per ounce (as of recent years, though it can spike higher).

2.5 Applications of Rhodium

a) Automotive Industry

Used in catalytic converters to reduce toxic emissions (NOx).
Often alloyed with platinum and palladium.

b) Jewelry

Used as plating to give a reflective, corrosion-resistant surface to white gold and silver jewelry.

c) Industrial & Chemical Uses

Catalyst in chemical reactions (nitric acid production, hydrogenation).
Electrical contacts due to corrosion resistance.

d) Electronics

Thin films in optical instruments and electrical contacts.

2.6 Comparison with Other Expensive Non-Ferrous Metals

Metal	Approx. Price per ounce	Notes
Rhodium	$10,000–$15,000+	Very rare, industrial demand
Platinum	$1,000–$1,200	Precious metal, catalytic use
Gold	$1,900–$2,000	Jewelry and investment
Iridium	$6,000–$7,000	Hard, corrosion-resistant, rarer than Pt
Palladium	$2,000–$3,000	Catalysts, jewelry