What can I do to protect myself against inflation and against the possibility of the US dollar losing its value relative to foreign currencies? Are precious metals a good alternative to stocks and bonds as I attempt to diversify my investments? Which of the precious metals is the most undervalued in today’s market conditions? I’ve heard about people collecting silver or “silver stacking” as they like to call it; what is that all about? These are many of the common questions that come up when a person first begins to research silver investing.

Did you know that many financial experts say the stock market is overvalued and overdue for a correction? Did you know that many of the same experts are saying that silver is one of the most undervalued commodities available to today’s investors? Silver values have fluctuated from a low of around 9 dollars per ounce late in 2008 to a high of nearly 50 dollars per ounce in 2011. Currently, a troy ounce of silver is worth around 16 dollars.

When it comes to investing in silver, there are a myriad of options of available. Silver comes in a variety of forms and purity levels. Pure silver is 99.9% pure and can be purchased in the form of bars or silver coins. Sterling silver is 92.5% pure, is a harder and more durable form silver, and is often used in flatware, serving dishes, jewelry, and candlesticks. Coin silver, otherwise known as junk silver, is 90% and is available in the form of half-dollars, quarters and dimes minted before 1965.

Some silver investors prefer coins while others prefer bars and some even hunt for sterling silver items at thrift shops and garage sales. It’s all a matter of personal preference. So, let’s say you are resident of Colorado and you want to where you can purchase silver coins in colorado or silver bars. Where do you begin?

The best place to begin is the internet? First, pull up the websites of several shops in the area, browse the info available on their site and read the reviews. Then, give them a call. Ask them how much they mark-up their silver above melt value. Ask if they guarantee the purity of the silver they sell and if they are willing to buy it back on short notice. Next, narrow down the list of shops and go in person. Assess if you feel comfortable with how you are treated and with the silver available for purchase.

Another option for beginning silver investors are reputable online dealers like JM Bullion and APMEX. Word to the wise, do your research before purchasing any silver online. Counterfeits are common, especially on online auction sites like Ebay.

Also, if you believe that you would like to pursue silver hunting as a hobby, it may be worth your time and money to purchase as acid testing kit. Such kits are quite inexpensive and accurate. There you have, a brief explanation for beginning silver investors. Good luck and treasure hunting