Your self-directed IRA is established
A self-directed IRA is opened with a qualified, independent custodian who administers the account under IRS rules. Ardent Gold can coordinate the introduction but does not open or hold the account.
The process
How it works
A plain walkthrough of how a precious metals IRA is opened, funded, and stored, and exactly where Ardent Gold fits at each stage.
The principle
We never take possession of your funds or your metals.
Your funds move only between regulated custodians. Your metals are allocated and held directly at an insured, IRS-approved depository, never in transit, and never in our hands. Ardent Gold coordinates the process; it does not hold your assets at any point.
Step by step
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The process, step by step
Your retirement funds are transferred
Existing retirement funds are rolled over or transferred into the self-directed IRA by your custodian, without tax when handled properly. The funds move between regulated custodians, and Ardent Gold never holds or moves your money.
You select IRS-approved metals
You choose from IRS-eligible precious metals suited to your goals. Ardent Gold presents the eligible options, and the decision is yours.
Ardent Gold coordinates the purchase
Ardent Gold arranges the purchase of your selected metals from a wholesale supplier at the agreed price.
Your metals are allocated at the depository
Your metals are allocated and held directly at the depository rather than shipped between facilities. Because they are not in transit, transit risk is removed from the process.
Held at an insured, IRS-approved depository
Your metals are stored at IDS (International Depository Services), an insured, IRS-approved depository, and titled to your IRA in your name. Custody rests with the depository, not with Ardent Gold.
You receive documentation
You receive documentation confirming the holdings in your account. Every step is recorded, so your account and its contents are fully documented.
The chain of custody
Where custody sits at each stage
Transfer coordinated
Ardent Gold arranges it
Allocated at depository (IDS)
Vaulted directly, never in transit
Titled to your IRA
In your name
In short
See storage & security details →
Simple, documented, and independent
The result is a process that is straightforward to follow and documented at every stage. Your retirement funds stay within the regulated custodian system, and your metals are held at an independent, insured depository, titled to your IRA.
From the initial rollover through to confirmation of your holdings, each step is recorded. If you have questions at any stage, your specialist is available to walk you through it.