Although cryptocurrencies such as bitcoin were the first to be developed using blockchain technology, they differ from NFTs in many important ways. NFTs can also be traded on the open markets for specific prices with the nft liquidity varying accordingly. Cryptocurrencies can be described as the native currency for a particular blockchain. Bitcoin, for example, is the native cryptocurrency of the Bitcoin blockchain. Ether, commonly referred to simply as Ethereum, is its native currency. There are many ways to mine cryptocurrencies. Bitcoin is mined using the energy-intensive proof of work method. This involves computers solving increasingly difficult random problems to win the right to validate a transaction block. Ethereum was originally a proof of work blockchain. However, Ethereum is currently transitioning to a less-energy-intensive proof-of–stake consensus model. Block validators "stake" or secure a certain amount (ETH) to be able to compete for transactions to be validated and to receive payment.

Fungible tokens are not coins and do not have their blockchain. Instead, they operate on other blockchains that rely on smart contracts. Companies issue fungible tokens in predetermined amounts to raise capital or allow users to take part in the governance of specific blockchain projects. Some cryptocurrencies, such as the stablecoinTether(UDST), are tokens that were issued on the Ethereum (or any other) blockchains. You can trade tokens on major exchanges. The value of tokens will fluctuate due to supply or demand. Contrary to cryptocurrencies which are stored on the native blockchain of each cryptocurrency and don't actually move into a user’s wallet, tokens can be spent and move from one place or another. Each blockchain offers its own type of token configuration. The most popular is Ethereum's ERC-20 token configuration. Fungible tokens use the ERC-20 configuration . NFTs use the ERC-721 model which is designed for non-fungible tokens. ERC-1155, a newer type NFT token configuration, combines some aspects of ERC-20 tokens and ERC-721 tokens to reduce transaction costs and increase transfer ease.

How to Make Your First NFT

Depending on the blockchain used for your NFT platform, minting your first NFT may differ. We will concentrate on minting NFTs using Ethereum-based platforms in this section because most major marketplaces use Ethereum. To purchase Ethereum, you'll first need to create an account on a cryptocurrency exchange such as Kraken or Coinbase. To complete the minting process, you will need to buy enough Ether (ETH). The minting price and platform will determine how much you need. Prices can also fluctuate depending on supply and demand. Next, you'll need an Ethereum compatible wallet. The most popular is MetaMask. MetaMask, along with many other Ethereum wallets, will give you a secret recovery code that you should keep safe. Next, create a profile for your NFT marketplace and link your profile to your wallet.

Although the exact steps may vary depending on which marketplace you are using, they can be easily found online by doing a quick Google search. Next, find the area of the platform that allows you to create your NFT. This will usually involve uploading your media items such as a JPG, GIF, or video file. A description can be added to your NFT. You will now be able either to list your NFT at a fixed price or make it available for auction. OpenSea is different in the way they price NFTs. If you list your NFT at a fixed price, there will be no gas fee. Auctions will require you to pay a minting fees. OpenSea charges 2.5% on all NFT sales and auctions. Foundation charges a 15% seller's fee and Rarible charges 3.5%. There will be a fee to initialize your wallet. This is separate from the fee you pay to mint your NFT. The fee is typically $50-60 on OpenSea. In times of high demand it could rise to $800. You should wait for the fee to decrease before you initiate your wallet.

You can mint NFTs on one blockchain, and then transfer them to another. This is known as "bridging".