Iridium metal ingot - one troy ounce - .9995 bullion Iridium was discovered by Smithson Tennant in 1803 and named after the Greek goddess Iris due to the brilliant colors of its salts. A member of the platinum group metals, iridium is the most corrosion resistant metal, is the second most dense and has the second highest modulus of elasticity (edged out only by osmium in both of these properties) and has a exceedingly high melting point. It is one of the rarest elements in the Earth's crust with an estimated concentration of 0.001 parts per million (gold is about 40 times more abundant). It is estimated that 2 to 4 tonnes of iridium is produced worldwide annually (compared with about 3300 tonnes of gold, 190 tonnes of platinum and 30 tonnes of rhodium). It is used in the electronics, aerospace and chemical industries. Inscribed on our ingots are the chemical symbol (Ir), purity (99.95%), weight (one troy ounce), and a serial number (this number is unique and will vary). On the reverse is our logo. These ingots will be lightly polished, similar to the one pictured. There can be tiny edge dings and other tiny imperfections which do not detract from the inherent value of this rare precious metal. As always, weight and purity are guaranteed by Rare World Metals Mint. Iridium is not known to be toxic and the solid form we supply is considered safe. Its fine turnings or powder form could ignite in air and can be an irritant to eyes and mucous membranes. As we suggest with all of our metals please keep them intact, in a safe place, do not ingest, and keep out of the reach of children. Once available, each ingot will be shipped with an assay certificate and with our velvet logo bag for storage. If you are not completely satisfied with any purchase from us, you have 30 days to return it for a full refund (buyer to pay return shipping). Domestic shipping is free for all orders over $199 (enter code free shipping at checkout). Unfortunately we will not ship this product internationally. If you happened to read our blog on iridium and meteorites, you've seen the following. If not please check it out: http://www.rwmmint.com/blogs/news/14929389-the-stuff-of-meteorites http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Iridium http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abundance_of_elements_in_Earth%27s_crust https://nora.nerc.ac.uk/id/eprint/513472/1/Risk_List_2015_FINAL.pdf https://www.911metallurgist.com/blog/the-worlds-10-most-precious-metals
