It has an inherent demand as a fundamental component of ornamentals and electronic parts. That keeps it's value stable. Any other commodity that has an inherent demand could and does serve the same purpose.
It has a mysitique which speculators can take advantage of, that extends the magnitude of volitile swings. Since the swings are usually larger, more $s can be made selling the stuff on an upswing and during it's return to a rational price.
I should have said, "keeps it's rational value stable".
100% agree