We’ve discussed elsewhere how cobalt, along with tantalum, is a “conflict metal” due to the vast majority of it coming from central African countries beset by warring factions who use the mining of the ores to fund their operations. Lately, however, China has greatly increased its own output thanks in equal measure to lax environmental regulations and the worldwide hunger for this metal. Tool steel, chemicals and the rapidly growing electric vehicle segment, where cobalt forms a key component in the drivetrain magnets, are sopping up every last gram that comes to market.

And speaking of grams, you too can add a little to the global strain by placing an order for your own little rectangle of this tussled over metal. In the planning stages for several months, each bar comes polished on both sides and is encapsulated into a a protective clamshell holder.