crossword clue precious metal – All Crossword Answers
Welcome to Crosswordanswer.co.uk! If you're tackling the clue "precious metal" in your crossword puzzle, you've come to the right place. We've compiled a comprehensive list of possible answers, complete with explanations, to help you complete your grid swiftly and accurately.
Solutions for "crossword clue precious metal" by Letter Count
4 Letters
GOLD: A highly valued, yellow metallic element, prized for its rarity and beauty, often used in jewelry and coinage.
6 Letters
SILVER: A lustrous, white, malleable, and ductile precious metal, commonly used in jewelry, silverware, and as an industrial material.
7 Letters
RHODIUM: A rare, silvery-white, hard, and corrosion-resistant precious metal of the platinum group, known for its reflectivity.
IRIDIUM: A very hard, brittle, silvery-white transition metal of the platinum group, notable for being the most corrosion-resistant metal.
8 Letters
PLATINUM: A dense, malleable, ductile, highly unreactive, and very valuable silvery-white precious metal, often used in catalytic converters and fine jewelry.
9 Letters
PALLADIUM: A rare and lustrous silvery-white metal of the platinum group, widely used in catalytic converters, dentistry, and jewelry.
More About "precious metal"
Precious metals are rare, naturally occurring metallic chemical elements of high economic value. They are less reactive than most elements and have high luster, making them ideal for various applications. Historically, they have been used as currency, in jewelry, and as investments, due to their scarcity and enduring value.
The most widely recognized precious metals include gold, silver, and the platinum group metals (platinum, palladium, rhodium, ruthenium, iridium, and osmium). Each possesses unique properties; for instance, gold is prized for its malleability and non-corrosive nature, while platinum group metals are known for their catalytic properties and extreme durability.
In crosswords, "precious metal" often refers to these well-known elements. The challenge typically lies in matching the correct metal to the given letter count, or to more specific contextual clues provided within the puzzle itself, such as a metal's color, common use, or unique properties.
Tips For Your Next Puzzle
- Check the Letter Count: Always start by counting the number of boxes available for the answer. This immediately narrows down the possibilities for "precious metal" to options like GOLD (4 letters), SILVER (6 letters), or PLATINUM (8 letters).
- Look for Contextual Clues: Sometimes, the clue might offer a hint beyond just "precious metal." For example, if the clue is "white precious metal," it's likely SILVER or PLATINUM. "Yellow precious metal" almost certainly points to GOLD.
- Consider Rarity or Specific Use: If the common answers don't fit, think about rarer precious metals or those with specialized uses, like RHODIUM (used in catalytic converters) or IRIDIUM (known for extreme hardness).
- Cross-Reference with Intersecting Clues: Don't forget to use the letters from intersecting words. These can be crucial in confirming or eliminating potential answers for "precious metal."
For more advice, visit our page on general crossword strategies.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the most common precious metals found in crosswords?
The most common precious metals frequently appearing in crosswords are GOLD, SILVER, and PLATINUM. These are universally recognized and have short, distinct names that fit well into grids.
How can I distinguish between different precious metal answers in a crossword?
Distinguishing between precious metal answers often depends on the letter count, specific synonyms or uses mentioned in the clue (e.g., 'white precious metal' for silver or platinum, 'most ductile precious metal' for gold), or surrounding intersecting clues that narrow down the possibilities.
Are there any less common precious metals that appear in crosswords?
Yes, less common but still valuable precious metals like RHODIUM, IRIDIUM, OSMIUM, RUTHENIUM, and PALLADIUM can sometimes appear, especially in more challenging or specialized crosswords. Their inclusion often relies on specific knowledge or a longer letter count.