Gold is one of the most frequently mentioned metals in the Bible, symbolizing wealth, purity, and divine glory. It is first mentioned in Genesis 2:11-12, where the land of Havilah is noted for its good gold. Gold was used extensively in the construction of the Tabernacle and the Temple, signifying the holiness and majesty of God. In Exodus 25:11, God commands Moses to overlay the Ark of the Covenant with pure gold. Gold also represents the incorruptible and eternal nature of God’s kingdom, as seen in Revelation 21:18, where the New Jerusalem is described as being made of pure gold, as clear as glass.

Gold is often associated with kingship and authority. In 1 Kings 10:14-22, the wealth of King Solomon is described, highlighting his vast accumulation of gold. The wise men presented gold to Jesus at His birth, acknowledging His kingship (Matthew 2:11). However, gold can also symbolize idolatry and materialism when it becomes an object of worship, as in the case of the golden calf in Exodus 32.

Silver

Silver, like gold, is a symbol of wealth and is often mentioned in the context of trade and commerce. In Genesis 23:16, Abraham purchases the cave of Machpelah with silver, indicating its use as currency. Silver is also used in the construction of the Tabernacle, as seen in Exodus 26:19, where the bases for the Tabernacle's frames are made of silver.

In biblical symbolism, silver often represents redemption and purification. In Malachi 3:3, God is described as a refiner and purifier of silver, illustrating His sanctifying work in the lives of His people. Silver is also associated with betrayal, as Judas Iscariot received thirty pieces of silver for betraying Jesus (Matthew 26:15).

Precious Stones

Precious stones are frequently mentioned in the Bible, often symbolizing beauty, value, and divine favor. In Exodus 28:17-20, the high priest's breastplate is adorned with twelve precious stones, each representing one of the tribes of Israel. These stones signify the preciousness of God's people in His sight.

In Revelation 21:19-21, the foundations of the New Jerusalem are described as being decorated with every kind of precious stone, symbolizing the glory and beauty of God's eternal kingdom. Precious stones are also used metaphorically to describe the character and faith of believers. In 1 Peter 2:5, believers are referred to as "living stones" being built into a spiritual house.

Riches

Riches in the Bible are often seen as a blessing from God, but they also come with warnings about the dangers of materialism and the love of money. In Deuteronomy 8:18, God reminds the Israelites that it is He who gives them the ability to produce wealth. Riches are seen as a reward for righteousness and wisdom, as in Proverbs 8:18, where wisdom declares, "With me are riches and honor, enduring wealth and righteousness."

However, the Bible also warns against the deceitfulness of riches. In Matthew 6:19-21, Jesus instructs His followers to store up treasures in heaven rather than on earth, emphasizing the transient nature of earthly wealth. The parable of the rich fool in Luke 12:16-21 serves as a cautionary tale about the futility of hoarding wealth without being rich toward God.

Riches can lead to pride and self-reliance, as seen in the account of the rich young ruler who walked away from Jesus because of his great wealth (Matthew 19:22). The apostle Paul warns in 1 Timothy 6:10 that "the love of money is a root of all kinds of evil," urging believers to pursue righteousness, godliness, faith, love, endurance, and gentleness instead.