silvers

Silvers is the plural term used for the element silver (chemical symbol Ag, atomic number 47). It is a soft, lustrous metal with high reflectivity, excellent electrical and thermal conductivity, and great malleability. Silver ranks among the best electrical conductors and is highly resistant to corrosion in many environments.

Natural silver occurs in native form and in sulfide and telluride ores such as argentite and chlorargyrite. Major producers include Mexico, Peru, China, Russia, Australia, and the United States. Extraction combines mining with ore processing, followed by refining, typically electrolytic refining, to yield high-purity silver ingots.

Historically, silver has been used for currency, jewelry, and tableware. In modern technology it is used in electronics, solar panels, catalysis, antimicrobial coatings, and photography in historical contexts. Its reflective properties and conductivity make it valuable in specialized applications, while jewelry remains a major consumer market.

Naturally occurring silver consists of two stable isotopes, Ag-107 and Ag-109; numerous radioisotopes have been synthesized, with varying half-lives. Silver metal is of low acute toxicity, but silver compounds can be hazardous with prolonged exposure, potentially causing argyria. Mining and refining raise environmental concerns, including habitat disruption and chemical use.