How the scale works

No black box. Here's exactly what goes into each score.

The short version

For both gold and silver, we look at five market signals. Each one gets a score from 0 to 100, where higher means conditions look better for buying. Some signals matter more than others, so we combine them as a weighted average and show the result on the scale.

How each signal is scored

We compare today's reading with the last 10 years. If a signal is more favorable today than it was 80% of the time over that period, it scores 80. No guesswork: anyone can check the numbers.

We take a value approach to price: the scale favors buying when prices are near or below their long-term average, not when they've already run up. That suits collectors who buy and hold.

What the score means

Gold factors

Silver factors

What the scale is not

The scale summarizes current conditions. It can't predict the future, and it isn't personal financial advice. Prices can fall even when the scale reads favorable. Use it as one input alongside your own research.