Used as a currency by some of the most ancient civilizations and used in nearly all forms of electronics in the modern age, silver has been essential to humans as far back as we can remember! Whether you have any in your pocket or not, here are some fun facts about silver you should remember for the next pub quiz.
1. Silver is number 47 on the periodic table.
You’ll find silver on the periodic table under the symbol Ag, and with the atomic number of 47. The symbol of Si is already reserved for silicon!
2. Silver is seriously old.
The value of silver dates back more than 6,000 years, as it’s been seen in the economies of ancient civilizations such as the Greeks and Romans. This precious metal was not only valued for its beauty as jewellery, but also as a m form of currency.
3. It plays a vital part in electronics.
Silver is pretty much unbeatable when it comes to conductivity for electricity, placing it at the heart of most modern electronics. Its ability to efficiently carry electrical currents plays a crucial role in how cell phones and solar panels function. Now you know which element to thank!
4. It’s a major mirror component.
Silver has been one of the top material choices for crafting mirrors for centuries. The practice of using thin layers of silver as a reflective coating on glass or other materials dates back to at least the 16th century in Europe.
5. Silver is often associated with the Moon.
Throughout mythology, silver has been associated with the Moon and lunar deities. The metal’s shimmering and cool hue were thought to embody the Moon’s beauty, leading to its role in folklore and magic, linked to the night sky and all kinds of celestial mysteries!
6. Silver was vital in early photography.
In the early days of photography, silver played a vital role. Silver-based emulsions on photographic plates and film helped to pioneer the art of image capture. These emulsions allowed us to capture images physically for the first time – an incredible feat even now if you think about it!
7. Silver fights back against bacteria.
Here’s another of silver’s incredible traits – it naturally inhibits the growth of bacteria! This property has led to its widespread use in medical equipment, wound dressings, and even antibacterial fabrics for clothing. As we’ve all learned these past few years, you can never do enough to fight against bacteria and viruses!
8. Silver is popular in jewellery.
Sterling silver, like copper, has long been a top choice for fine jewellery. Its shine, durability, and affordability make it a favourite for buyers and crafters alike. Sterling silver pieces are popular because they’re often intricately designed and catch the eye.
9. Silver has made its way to space.
Silver’s incredible thermal conductivity controls temperatures in spacecraft, while its resistance to radiation helps shield sensitive instruments. Without silver, who knows how some of our space missions could’ve ended up.
10. It’s an important cultural symbol.
Silverware isn’t just for dining! It often carries sentimental value, too. A popular choice for special occasions such as anniversaries and weddings, silverware makes a stunning, long-lasting gift. It’s often passed down through generations, too, provided it’s looked after carefully enough!
11. You’ll find silver on walls and in decorations.
Silver’s versatility makes for some fantastic visual pieces, such as stained glass and ceramics. Silver compounds help to create stunning colours – making for some really valuable works you can see in galleries all over the world!
FAQs about Silver
What was the earliest use of silver?
The earliest recorded use of silver dates back thousands of years. Historians believe that silver was first used by ancient civilizations such as the Egyptians around 3000 BC.
What is the most common use of silver?
The most common use of silver today is in the production of silverware, jewellery, and coins. It is also widely used in the electronics industry due to its excellent electrical conductivity.
How much is Silver worth?
Silver prices vary significantly due to supply and demand, geopolitical events, and currency fluctuations. To get the most up-to-date and accurate silver price, you should check financial news sources or consult a reliable precious metals market tracker.
Further reading
https://facts.uk/tag/Science/
https://edu.rsc.org/elements/silver/2020023.article
https://pubchem.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/element/Silver
Do you know any interesting facts about Silver? Share them in the comments below!
