Would silver by any other name be so lustrous? Sure, it's a natural element that sits on the periodic table; group 11 period 5 to be exact. But how exactly did this shiny greyish-white metal get its name? and what other forms does it take? Let's break it down and discover: What Is The Scientific Name For Silver?
The Anatomy Of Silver
What Is Ag. 47?
The name silver derives from the Anglo-Saxon word “siolfur.” Silver is a natural element with a unique scientific code that places it on the periodic table. Silver is located in Group 11, Period 5 of the periodic table in-between copper and gold. The scientific name for silver is Ag. 47, referencing its chemical symbol Ag and atomic number 47.
Silver The Native Metal
Ag. The scientific name for silver is an abbreviation of the Latin word Argentum. By definition, Argentum is a brilliant greyish-white element that occurs naturally in argentite and other ores.
Silver is a native metal that can be found in organic form along the earth's surface. Like its counterparts copper and gold, silver is an excellent conductor of electricity. All three metals share the same chemical and physical properties with some key differences in their appearance.
Most metals that are found in nature reflect and absorb visible light at all wavelengths. Silver is a highly reflective metal that does not vary with changing light frequencies, adding a brilliant white metallic luster to its already greyish-white undertone.
Silver is regarded as a precious metal that takes on a crystal-like structure in its pure form. Natural crystals of silver are uncommon, but when they are found they appear in a three-dimensional shape; cubic (three plane faces), octahedral (eight plane faces), or dodecahedral (twelve plane faces). Silver is mostly mined as a byproduct from sulfide ores. The most important ore mineral of silver is argentite, Ag2S, bearing a similar scientific name to silver.
The History Of Silver
Silver has certainly played a key role throughout history ascending through the presence of art, jewellery, currency, industry, investment, and even medicine. Silver was first discovered in 3000 BC at the dig of the first copper mines. It was quickly revered for its unique scientific makeup that allowed for versatility in its handling. Silver was first used to create coinage as a means of exchange in the first ancient cities of Greece.
It was at the turn of the 13th Century that King Edward I of England saw a need for this wondrous metal to be used for more than just currency. The test was to discover how silver could become more durable so that it could be more usable. Ag. 47, the scientific name for silver, has a chemical makeup that makes it soft and difficult to shape. The challenge for scientists was trying to make silver more expendable by making it stronger.
After much experimentation, it was determined that 925 parts silver mixed with 7.5 parts alloy made silver strong enough to be workable. This scientific name for silver 925, with 7.5 alloys soon became known as sterling silver.
Sterling Silver In Jewellery Making
Sterling silver jewellery is both malleable and ductile and is the perfect combination for use in artistry. The flexible components of the metal can easily be manipulated to different shapes and forms allowing jewellers the luxury of versatility in their designs. In this way, sterling silver is one of the most popular metals used in the jewellery craft.
When broken down to a science, sterling silver is predominantly silver in its pure form and carries all of its attributes, with the addition of other metals, usually copper. It's the high luster and reflective nature of sterling silver that makes it aesthetically appealing and so sought after in the design of necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings. Silver Chic procures a collection of jewellery that showcases sterling silver and its counterpart Ag. 47, the scientific name for silver, in all its splendour. A standout from the Silver Chic range includes the Sterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Initial necklace.
The ever-popular initial necklace range includes all the delicacies that make it so adored. The range adds a touch of expression that is minimal yet unreserved, with a diversity that appeals to the tastes of many. The different styles include zirconia, diamonds, and a clever mix of font that includes bold type or script.
Silver Chic dedicates its fascinating collection of jewellery to the precious metal Ag. 47, the scientific name for silver and its derivative sterling silver. The range at Silver Chic includes everything that makes this lustrous metal so adored and cherished as an art form around the world.