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Troy weight is a system of measurement used primarily for precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. It is distinct from the more commonly used avoirdupois weight system, which is used for everyday items.

Basic Units:

  1. Troy Ounce (oz t): The primary unit of measurement in the Troy weight system is the Troy ounce. It is equivalent to approximately 31.1035 grams.
  2. Troy Pound (lb t): The Troy pound is composed of 12 Troy ounces, making it lighter than the avoirdupois pound, which consists of 16 avoirdupois ounces.

Conversion Factors:

  • 1 Troy ounce (oz t) = 31.1035 grams
  • 1 Troy pound (lb t) = 12 Troy ounces = 373.2417 grams

Usage:

  1. Precious Metals: Troy weight is commonly used in the trade and valuation of precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. Prices are often quoted per Troy ounce or per Troy pound.
  2. Jewelry and Bullion: The weight of precious metal items, such as jewelry and bullion bars, is typically measured in Troy ounces or Troy pounds.
  3. Financial Markets: In financial markets, prices for precious metals futures contracts and options are often quoted in terms of Troy ounces.

Historical Origin:

The Troy weight system dates back to medieval times and is believed to have originated in the ancient city of Troyes, France. It was widely used in European trade and commerce, particularly for transactions involving precious metals.

Differences from Avoirdupois Weight:

  • The Troy pound is lighter than the avoirdupois pound.
  • The Troy ounce is slightly heavier than the avoirdupois ounce.
  • While the avoirdupois system is used for most everyday items and commodities, Troy weight is specifically reserved for precious metals.

Troy weight is a system of measurement used for precious metals such as gold, silver, and platinum. It employs units such as the Troy ounce and Troy pound, which are distinct from the avoirdupois units used for everyday items. Troy weight is widely used in the valuation, trade, and pricing of precious metals in various industries and financial markets.

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