Silver Charm Jewelry FAQs

When was silver discovered and what value did it have?
The discovery of silver is estimated to be shortly after that of copper and gold. The oldest reference appears in the book of Genesis. While gold was thought of to be the perfect metal and given the symbol of the circle, silver was thought to be the closest to gold in perfection, thus given the symbol of the semi-circle. Later, the semi-circle symbol evolved to represent a growing moon, most likely due to the similarities between the shining metal and the moon glow.

What else is silver used for besides jewelry?
Silver can be made into several compounds, and the most important silver inorganic compound is nitrate. Nitrate is used in almost all the processes of production, such as painting, xerography, chemical electroplating, and in electric batteries. Silver chloride is another useful compound due to its ductility and malleability. Organic compounds of silver are used in the coating of several metals and even in explosives. Silver was also used as an alloy in silver-copper traditionally for producing coins. Nowadays, it is replaced by the cheaper copper-nickel alloy. Other silver alloys are used in producing radiators for the automobile industry and in making musical instruments.

Is silver toxic?
Silver is a non-toxic element, however most of the salts it produces are poisonous due to the presence of anions. These compounds are absorbed by the body and remain in the blood stream until they are deposited in the mucous membranes, forming a grayish film. There are some silver compounds, such as nitrate, that have an antiseptic effect. Solutions with silver nitrate are used in treating irritations of mucous membranes in the mouth and throat. Other proteins that contain silver are powerful anti-irritating agents for the membranes of the eyes, head, nose, and throat.