Global palladium sales were 8.84 million ounces in 2017 of which 86% was used in the manufacturing of automotive catalytic converters, followed by industrial, jewelry, and investment usages. Palladium is a chemical element first discovered in 1803, and since the 1980s, its major commercial application has been in the automotive industry. More than 75% of global platinum and 40% of palladium are mined in South Africa. Russia's mining company, Norilsk Nickel, produces another 44% of palladium, with US and Canada-based mines producing most of the rest.