What different metals are used to make the Olympic medallion?

Question

Is the gold medal really made from gold while the silver made from silver?

How did these medals come to represent the rankings?

Thanks!

Answer 1

gold foil with chocolate centre

The following excerpt is from the website below

each medal must be at least 2.4 inches in diameter and 0.12 inches thick ..the gold medal is actually made of silver, but must be gilded with at least 6 grams (0.21 ounces) of pure gold

Answer 2

yes, they do use gold, silver and bronze for the olympic medals. they are used because they represent the levels of success based on their rarity. Gold is the most precious metal and so the most sought after. silver, next most precious and then bronze.