Erbium
Symbol: Er
Atomic Number: 68
Heavy Rare Earth Metal
Er
Overview
Erbium is particularly valuable in fiber-optic communication technology, where it's used to amplify signals. Its pink salts are used in optical filters and as a dopant in fiber amplifiers. The metal also finds applications in metallurgy and nuclear technology.
Appearance
Silvery-white, metallic
Electron Configuration
[Xe] 4f¹²6s²
Density
9.066 g/cm³
Melting Point
1529°C
Discovery
Year:
1843
Discoverer:
Carl Gustaf Mosander
Location:
Sweden
Discovery Timeline
1843
182 years ago
Primary Uses
- Fiber optic amplifiers
- Optical filters
- Metallurgical applications
- Nuclear applications
Application Sectors
Electronics Medical Energy Defense Manufacturing
Economic Value
Current Price
$95 per kg
Price Trend
Stable
Supply Risk
Primary Producers
ChinaAustraliaMalaysia
Investing in Erbium
- Erbium oxide (99.9%) trades at US $95-110 /kg FOB China (≈ US $0.10 /g) as of May 2025.
- European spot prices reach US $130-150 /kg due to supply chain logistics.
- Asian Metal's index shows steady growth driven by fiber optic infrastructure expansion.
- Small-lot investors face 35-40% premiums above bulk prices.
- Metal prices carry 40-45% premium over oxide due to processing complexity.
How to Get Exposure
| Route | Why It Appeals | Watch-outs |
|---|---|---|
| Physical metal/oxide | Direct exposure to fiber optic growth | Storage, handling requirements |
| Mining stocks | Operational leverage potential | Limited pure-play options |
| ETFs | Broader rare earth exposure | Minimal Er-specific exposure |
Market Outlook
- Fiber optic infrastructure driving steady demand growth.
- 5G and data center expansion boosting optical amplifier needs.
- Medical laser applications providing additional demand.
- Supply remains concentrated but less critical than other REEs.
FAQs
Why invest in Erbium?
It offers exposure to the growing fiber optic and telecommunications infrastructure market.
How volatile is the market?
Prices are relatively stable with steady growth driven by telecommunications demand.
Disclaimer: Market data is indicative and updates frequently; nothing here constitutes financial advice.