By Dr. Mark Clayson


Silver, like gold, has always been popular not only as currency and utensils but also as ornaments. Since this metal is harder than gold, they are more commonly used in expensive utensils, thus the name silverware. Silver is a luminously white metal that when polished gleams much brighter so it also became a favorite jewelry.

The Use of Silver
Since this is a precious metal, it, too, was used as currency during the olden days but came only second to gold, which is still the first metal of choice for jewelries.
Silverwares are traditionally made from sterling silver, which is a 92.5% silver mixed with copper. Utensils made of sterling silver also become heirlooms passed on to generations upon generations. A set of silverware usually commands a high price when auctioned or custom made for a consumer.

Silver medals are also given to second placers in competitions, gold being the first because gold is still considered more valuable than silver.

In the medical field, silver has been used by Phoenicians because of its healing properties coupled with its antibacterial effect. Water and vinegar were usually kept in silver bottles and so are wines. During the 1900s, people place it in milk bottles to prevent milk from curdling and lengthen its freshness. Silver compounds were widely used during the World War I as antibiotics, preventing infection.

The most common use for silver though is for jewelries. Because of its brilliant luster, it has made its way to becoming one of the favorite metals to adorn women of all ages. Like gold, it has been made into a variety of jewelries like necklaces, bracelets and even earrings.

Silver Earrings
Silver earrings have always been in style in the modern culture. But just like gold, it was affected by society during the mid 1800s when the hairstyle required women to cover their ears and in the mid 1950s when society again deemed it socially improper for cultured ladies to have pierced ears, but it soon became fashionable to wear them again.

Today’s modern silver earrings range from simple stud silver earrings to elaborate dangling earrings. Whatever the occasion is, women adorn themselves with this metal. A lot of jewelry store not only sells gold earrings but they also have a large selection of silver earrings to choose from to suit each individual’s taste.

One of the popular designs for silver earrings is the animal features. Gemstones and beads are usually incorporated to add beauty to silver earrings. Birthstones are also added in the designing of silver earrings. Silver coupled with diamond is a perfect combination as the sparkle diamond gives off complements the white luster of the silver. But since diamonds are expensive, Zirconia is often used to take its place, and it looks almost like a diamond.

Silver earrings are also perfect for daytime use, but when used during the night, its magnificent luster looks so luxurious and elegant. No wonder silver earrings have made its way to becoming one of the favorite jewelries of all times.

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