By Annette Witter


For many centuries, silver has been considered a second class metal as compared to gold. This does not however mean that it was rarely used. In fact there have been extensive reports of its use in making coins, utensils, ornaments and jewelery throughout history. Excellent examples of antique silver rings, silver bracelets and necklaces can be found displayed in museums across the world.

Its shiny appearance helped make it a representation of purity for many communities and faiths. It was used to make utensils for altars and as jewelery for high priestesses. It was also believed to be linked to the moon that was considered a pure body.

Myths have also played a role in perpetuating the belief that the metal is the most pure element. In Europe, stories were written of how silver bullets could be used to destroy mythological monsters like vampires and werewolves. Today these stories continue and have gained an even bigger audience through blockbuster movies and television series.

Many royal families like those of the Korean Joseon Dynasty made use of spoons made from this metal as a precaution against poisoning. It was believed that if poisoned food touched the spoon, it would change color. This belief was based on the fact that the compounds of the metal would react to sulphides, darkening its color.

When it comes to jewelery, many people have a very strict preference for either gold or the special metal that this article is about. Many people have made a shift towards shiny metal not just for its lovely appearance, but also because it is highly affordable. Most jewelers now stock items made in a selection of this metal, gold, platinum and palladium. While palladium is relatively new to the market, platinum offers numerous benefits but is very expensive.

The clear coloring of jewelery pieces that are made with this metal, have made it a popular choice among contemporary designers. The cool appearance of the metal is often used to accentuate but not overshadow the clothes it is accessorizing. It is also a beautifully offsets precious stones without detracting from their lovely color. Rubies, emeralds, sapphires, amethysts and diamonds tend to draw the eye more clearly when used in bracelets and necklaces.

Because the metal is so malleable, it can be easily manipulated to create intricate designs. For this reason it is common to find jewelery pieces from rural communities as far apart as Thailand and Mexico, who use crude ancient techniques to create signature pieces unique to their culture. With skills they have inherited from their ancestors, these people continue to produce beautiful items but are unfortunately faced with harsh competition from factories that have started to mass produce similar items.

While this metal is well recognized in its use in jewelery making, it does also get easily tarnished. The oxidation process makes the metal darken and lose its sheen. This is a common effect see in silver rings, bracelets and spoons that are family heirlooms. A good way of combating this effect is to regularly polish the items and take them in for a professional clean once a year.



0 comments