General history

General history

Silver is known by the mankind since pre-history, and its discovery is estimated to have happened shortly after that of copper and gold. The oldest reference to the element appears in the book of Genesis. The Egyptians considered gold to be a perfect metal, and gave it the symbol of a circle. Since silver was the closest to gold in perfection, it was given the symbol of a semi-circle. Later this semi-circle led to a growing moon symbol, probably due to the likeness between the shining metal and the moon glow.

The Romans called silver argentums, keeping this as the international name of the element, from where its chemical symbol derives. Just as gold, silver was considered by the Ancients to be somewhat of a sacred metal so it was used sparingly. Its malleability and ductility make it ideal for ornamental purposes. It was also used for paying debts, in personal and religious places decoration and in utensils of the wealthiest houses.

It was the disciple of Jesus, Judas Iscariot that accepted thirty pieces of silver from the high priests in return for the whereabouts of Jesus, which consequently led to His crucifixion. In Roman and Greek Mythology, the First Age was called Golden, the second Silver. Apollo, god of truth and light, teacher of medicine, carried a silver bow. His twin sister Artemis lost a hand in battle and later was given a silver replacement by the Irish god of healing.

In the shamanic religion of Bon-Po, a special river filled with silver sands is said to make anyone who drinks the water lovely as a peacock. Silver has always held a value above material and economic considerations. Gifts of silver jewelry in many cultures are given as a symbol of trust, truth, excellence, wisdom and love.