There’s evidence of silver mining dating back to 3000 BC, making it one of the world’s oldest known precious metals. Back then, silver processing was accomplished by heating silver ore and blowing on it—a process known as cupellation. Today, silver is mined more efficiently, and it’s still a sought-after commodity that’s fairly easy to acquire in one form or another. As for whether or not the world will ever run out of silver, we explore this topic below.

Reports of Silver’s Depletion Aren’t New

Some analysts, according to Sunshine Profits, are predicting coming shortages involving precious metals that include silver. However, reports of silver’s depletion aren’t new. As far back as the late ’90s, there were claims that silver supplies were running low. The predictions made at the time and in the years since have failed to become reality. The Silver Institute points out silver supply trends typically fluctuate over the years. Research presented by this source shows silver production didn’t go into terminal decline when silver peaks were hit in 1990 and again in 2001. In fact, silver mining production continued to move upward after each of these peaks.

Market Trends Affect Silver Demand

In early 2021, silver prices spiked dramatically, leading to rumors of an impending shortage. But if you dig further into the circumstances involved, this particular rush on silver can be traced to retail investors flooding the precious metals market. Part of the reason for this shift in buying habits was due to a Reddit post that urged investors to buy silver, sparking rumors of a shortage. Since then, Sunshine Profits reports, silver prices have dipped back down to levels considered “normal” by many silver investors and market analysts. 

There May Be Market Volatility, but No Shortages Are Expected

Based on what’s happening with the silver market and what’s been seen so far in 2021, there are no significant signs of an impending silver shortage. That said, short-term runs on silver and market manipulation can create the impression that silver is in short supply. If you choose to invest in silver, make sure to work with a reputable precious metals dealer, such as First National Bullion. Scottsdale collectors should rely on advice from professionals with extensive market expertise.

Silver Supply Can’t Be Predicted with Certainty

The world may eventually run out of silver at some point, but this is also true of other precious metals like gold and platinum. However, it’s not possible to accurately predict when this could happen with any degree of certainty. If you look at the numbers, Usmoneyreserve.com points out that there are roughly 560,000 metric tons of silver left in the world. The largest silver reserves today are found in Peru, Poland, Australia, and Russia.

Become an Informed Silver Investor

The best thing to do if you have plans to invest in this particular precious metal is to learn as much as you can about the silver market. This added knowledge helps you get a better feel for when the silver market is mainly being influenced by temporary conditions. With silver investments, it can also be beneficial to:

• Seek advice from precious metals experts
• Have a well-rounded portfolio that includes multiple precious metals
• Adjust your investment patterns based on market trends and personal goals 

Whether they’re looking for expert advice on precious metals supplies or they want to buy silver bullion, Scottsdale precious metals collectors reach out to the trustworthy professionals at First National Bullion. We can answer all your questions and help you find all the information you need on how precious metals can be a valuable part of your portfolio. Give one of our experienced dealers a call today at 480-546-8928.

The statements made in this blog are opinions, and past performance is not indicative of future returns. Precious metals, like all investments, carry risk. Precious metals and coins may appreciate, depreciate, or stay the same in cash value depending on a variety of factors. First National Bullion does not guarantee, and its website and employees make no representation, that any metals for sale will appreciate sufficiently to earn the customers a profit. The decision to buy, sell, or borrow precious metals and which precious metals to purchase, borrow, or sell are made at the customer’s sole discretion.