3 min read
0 comments
The most expensive metal in the world, worth up to US$27 million per gram, a synthetic metal produced in a laboratory is surprisingly rare and has been used in cancer treatments. In nature, rhodium tops the list.
When it comes to the world’s most expensive metal, gold usually comes to mind. However, in the world of science and industry, there are elements that are much more expensive — and even rarer. Two metals stand out in this ranking of exclusivity: californium and rhodium, both with values that easily surpass gold and platinum.
According to a publication in Galileu Magazine (25/03), californium-252 is the most expensive metal ever produced in the world, reaching the mark of US$ 27 million per gram, while rhodium, found in nature, can reach US$ 500 per gram, being highly coveted by the industry automotive and jewelry.
Californium: Extreme rarity and medical applications
Discovered in 1950, californium (Cf) is a synthetic, radioactive element produced in extremely small quantities — about 30 to 40 micrograms per year worldwide. The world's most expensive metal is generated in high-powered nuclear reactors, such as those at Oak Ridge National Laboratory in the United States and in Russia.
- Easy-to-install wind turbine costs less than 3 THOUSAND, can generate energy 24 hours a day, supply 50% to 100% of the consumption of a conventional residence and still last 25 years
- Did you have a child in 2024? Increase your 2025 Income Tax refund with deductions of up to R$2.275,08
- Bargains are over: Shein, Temu announce price hikes in response to Trump's new tariffs
- F-5, the fighter that changed the Brazilian Air Force
According to Galileu and confirmed by scientific analyses of the Periodic Table, this element has specific use in neutron therapy for cancer treatment, in addition to serving as a source of neutrons for metal and other material detectors. Due to its production complexity and risk potential, californium is restricted to highly controlled applications and advanced scientific research.
Rhodium: the world's most expensive metal in its natural form
Rhodium (Rh) is considered the most expensive natural metal on the planet, with a value that ranges between US$200 and US$500 per gram, depending on international market fluctuations. Extracted mainly in South Africa, rhodium is famous for its resistance to corrosion, intense shine and stability even at high temperatures.
According to data from Galileu Magazine and the US Geological Survey (USGS), around 80% of the world's rhodium production comes from the African continent, with an annual average of just 30 tons. It is mainly used in automobile catalytic converters, but is also present in electronic equipment, telescope mirrors and, more recently, in high-end jewelry.
Gold, platinum and other metals: comparing values
For comparison, gold currently costs about $70 per gram, while platinum is around $30 to $35, according to the World Gold Council. Even precious metals such as palladium and iridium, which were once leaders in market value, are now below rhodium in the current price-per-gram rankings.
That is, despite the historical fame of gold as a valuable asset, in the scientific and modern industrial, another most expensive metal in the world occupies much higher positions in terms of price and strategic importance.
