The many uses and the many desires of silver. The name silver is popular in more ways than just jewelry. Silver is used in dentistry, construction, hospitals and of course jewelry.

Pure silver, also called fine silver is a very soft, very malleable, and easily damaged alloy. So it is commonly combined with other metals to produce a more durable product. The most popular of these alloys is sterling silver, which consists of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper.
Copper is by far the best companion for a silver additive, improving the metal's hardness and durability without affecting its beautiful luster. There is generally no adverse affects of using copper when finished and polished properly by a fine craftsman or goldsmith.
Most high quality silver items are stamped with a "quality" mark or insignia. This mark designates the precious metal content of the jewelry, and under federal law, must be accompanied by a maker's mark or registered trademark. Most commonly used marks will read; Ster, 925, sterling, sterling silver or .925.

Silver was one of the earliest metals used to make coins. The Romans used silver in this way as early as 269 BC. Today Mexico is the only country that uses silver in its coins. In Australia, the 1966 fifty cent piece was the last coin in general use to contain silver. It contained 80% silver and 20% copper.

Because silver is such a good conductor of electricity, it is used in many electrical applications, including switches, contacts and fuses. Silver is used in household switch contacts because it does not corrode, leading to the dangers of fire.

Although silver tarnishes easily, the tarnish does not prevent the electricity from being conducted. Almost all electrical appliances use silver contacts and switches. Microwaves, dishwashers, TVs, telephones, toys and computers all contain silver. A typical washing machine contains 16 silver contacts!

Ready for an interesting fact? Sterling silver is used in some cars as the tiny metal conductors in the window de-frosting unit. Sterling silver will also take a bit longer to tarnish than other silver alloys, so it is recommended for longer wear jewelry pieces.

Who said nature wasn’t beautiful? Silver is beautiful even before man turns it into that chain,

bracelet or class ring. With so many purposes and uses, it is no wonder it has becomes today’s popular metal.