silver

Argentum (Ag)

Argentum is the Latin term for the precious metal. It is a well malleable one, soft and white metal, which has a very good conductivity for electricity and heat. Due to its properties, however, in its pure form it is not particularly suitable for the production and processing of jewelry. Hence it usually comes as an alloy, often with copper, for use.

description

In the periodic table, the chemical element silver is listed with the sign Ag. Ag comes from Latin and means argentum. The atomic number of this precious metal is 47. It belongs to the series of so-called transition metals. Silver can be deformed with little effort, however, it can also be converted into a permanently solid form without any problems. This property makes silver one of the most popular materials in the manufacture of jewelry. It is also well suited for jewelry making because of its attractive appearance, bright shiny optics, which enables great pieces of jewelry to be made from the flexible material. The precious metal has the best conductivity of all known elements, Silver also leads the way in terms of thermal conductivity for metals. The precious metal is extracted from copper ores, Lead ores and silver ores. Pure silver is only used in jewelry processing in very rare cases. It is more common, to use the silver in the form of various alloys. The copper-silver alloys are among the most frequently used alloys. This composition makes the precious metal harder, nevertheless not brittle. To be able to classify the material, it requires the concentration of the silver fineness in the alloy. The most popular alloys are 935s, 925is, 835he and 800 silver. The percentage of the silver content is given in thousandths. this means, that in the most famous silver alloy, which corresponds to the 925 silver, 92,5 Percent pure silver are included. This alloy is also known under the term sterling silver.

History of silver

The tradition of using silver is very old. Silver has long been used as an investment in value and plays a role in the manufacture of currency coins, Silverware, high quality tableware and jewelry play a major role. Nowadays it is also used as an electrical contact and conductor and also as a catalyst for chemical reactions. It is also used for films in the field of photography. In the form of dilute nitrate solutions, it is also used as a microbiocide, because of its oligodynamic effect, and as a disinfectant. The clinical potential of the precious metal is still being researched today, although in the antimicrobial application area in medicine the silver has been largely displaced by the newfangled antibiotics.

In early Ethiopia, the Jews in particular practiced the craft of silversmiths. This is known as the Falasha Clan. This craft was often viewed as inferior to other activities. The value of gold was significantly higher than that of silver in the former Middle East, which is why the silver smiths could manufacture their items and then store them.

techniques, Tools and materials of the silversmiths

– Pegs
– Anvils
– Ball locksmith hammer
– Cross locksmith hammer
– Withdrawal hammer
– Finishing hammer
– Jeweler feile
– Half-round file
– Flat file
– Shave
– Jeweler saw
– Blowpipe or burner
– Boric acid
– Borax
– Flux
– Silber-Hartlot
– Staple
– Punching blocks
– engraving
– Regrowth
– Burin
– Polishes
– Polishing pads
– Wet preparation

The silversmiths cut or saw special shapes in bleach from fine silver or sterling. Then hammers are used, so that the silver can be brought into the correct shape over stakes and anvils. The silver is at room temperature, so processed in the cold state. When the silver worked, bent and hammered, it reaches its workable state. The heat treatment, which is applied, is the annealing, in which the silver is converted back into a softer form.

Casting techniques can also be used by the silversmiths, so that they feet, Can make handles or buttons for their item. When the pouring and molding is complete, the components can be riveted or soldered back to the main object. Today's silversmiths often use gas burners as a heat source. A very new and innovative process is what is known as laser beam welding.

Of course, the silversmiths can do this too, to work with brass or copper. However, these works usually only relate to objects, which are made for trial.

Valued for millennia and versatile

Machined silver metal has been around for years 5000 v. Christ used. At least that is what the oldest documented finds by archaeologists suggest. In the Middle Ages and antiquity, this precious metal was even more important than that of gold. This can be attributed to it, that at that time mainly silver coins were used for payment. The silver metal only lost its economic importance from 19. century, when gold became the preferred metal for currencies. But, due to its high thermal and electrical conductivity, the metal was quickly discovered by industry for their purposes. It also became increasingly popular in the manufacture of jewelry. What many do not know: Silver also has an antibacterial effect, which is why it was used in the medical field for the treatment of wounds. It has similar properties to a conventional disinfectant.

The sterling silver already presented is usually used for the production of jewelry, because it has a higher degree of hardness and is therefore more resistant to external influences than pure silver. The amount of the fineness is included here 925/1000 which is why it is also known as 925 silver. On objects and jewelry, which is made of the precious metal, there is always a stamp, which gives exact information about the fineness of the object.

The precious metal

Silver has been one of the most popular jewelry materials for centuries. The people were already killing 5.000 before Christ, Manufacture jewelry from the precious metal. All peoples, whether Romans, Germanic peoples, Egyptians or Greeks used the noble metal and made jewelry on it. There were even times, in which the shiny white metal was worth more than gold. In Europe, the largest deposit of silver originated in the Greek mines of Lavion. Even today will be there, in the south of Athens, the mining of silver was still promoted. This also applies to some other places in Europe, such as in Saxony, in the Harz Mountains or in Slovakia. In its original form, pure silver is not very resistant and stable. That is why it is often used as an alloy, thus processed in combination with other precious metals.

Fine silver

So that valuable and exclusive pieces of jewelry can be made, the purest and best materials should be used. In addition to fine gold, fine silver is one of the raw materials, which are the perfect basis for high quality jewelry. Fine silver is understood here to mean pure silver. This is a material, which comes along without an alloy. In the case of the pure silver, the hallmark is, which can be found on the silver, usually 1000/1000. This represents the content of the silver in per mille. The pure silver is then often processed into alloys. Because in this pure form the silver is too soft and cannot be used for the production of jewelry without problems. For this reason, the sterling silver already described is normally used for jewelry, so an alloy, which have a share of 92,5 Percent pure silver. In 925 silver, the second component of the alloy is usually copper, which makes the metal harder, so that it can be better processed into a piece of jewelry or another object.

Silver as a precious metal

In the chemical periodic table, the metal is found as a chemical element under the name argentum with the atomic number 47. It is a transition metal, which is shiny white and soft. Of all known elements, it has the best electrical conductivity and the best thermal conductivity of all known metals. In nature the metal is found in its free form, pure form, which is also known as native silver. It also occurs together with gold and other metals as an alloy and is in numerous minerals, such as chlorargyrite and argentite are present. The largest amounts of the precious metal are used as a by-product in the production of zinc cleaning, lead, Produced gold and copper.

The properties

The precious metal is a monovalent coin metal, which is extremely malleable and stretchable. It's a little harder compared to gold. It has a white and brilliant shine, which can be highly polished. The conductivity of electrical energy in the metal is the highest of all known metals, it even exceeds the conductivity of copper. However, it is far more expensive, which is why copper is still used in the field of electronics. However, high-frequency technology is an exception here, because at higher frequencies and VHF the precious metal is still used in the form of silver-plated components, to guarantee a higher electronic conductivity. In the time of the second world war for the enrichment of the uranium in the USA around 13.500 Tons of electromagnets used. This can be attributed to the scarcity of copper during the war.

The precious metal also has the edge in terms of thermal conductivity. Here the silver metal is only surpassed by superfluid helium II and the non-metallic carbon in diamond form. It also has one of the highest performances in terms of optical reflectivity, here it is only surpassed by aluminum, but only to a minor extent.

Of all metals, silver has the best performance as electricity- and heat conductors. It can also boast the lowest contact resistance. To create latent images, which can then be chemically developed, The silver halides have remarkable properties due to their high sensitivity to light. The precious metal is stable in water and pure air, however, it can tarnish, when it comes into contact with water or air, in which hydrogen sulfide or ozone is present. Does it come into contact with hydrogen sulfide, a layer of black silver sulfide is formed, which can be eliminated by using dilute hydrochloric acid. In terms of the oxidation state, the most common is the +1, such as in the form of silver nitrate.

Investment and currency

In earlier times, the precious metal was mainly used for this purpose, for coins, which were used as a means of payment, to manufacture. In the Middle Ages and antiquity, only copper or bronze were used for currency coins, Used gold and silver. The value of the coin then roughly corresponded to the value of the metal used, which is also known as the Kurant coin. By the year 1871 the silver coins were also predominant in Germany in the form of the taler and the silver standard applied, by which the currency was covered. However, the silver standard here became after the year 1871 replaced by the gold standard. These precious metals were therefore used, because they had a high store of value due to their rarity. The coins are also made of other metals, like zinc, Nickel or iron can be produced, is a phenomenon, which only appeared at the beginning of modern times. In these coins, the value of the metal is less than the value, which is stamped on the coin. This is also known as divisional coins. As a metal for coins, silver is only used today in the special area- and commemorative coins used.

During an economic crisis, like for example that of the year 2007, In the past, silver remained one of the most popular forms of investment alongside gold. There are different forms here, for example silver coins, Silver jewelry or silver bars. Since ancient times, there has been a so-called silver ban in times of currency crises.

Sport and business

In the manufacture of jewelry, the precious metal is, next to other gemstones, such as diamonds and gold, one of the most important raw materials. It has also been used for this for several centuries, Manufacture of stable and exquisite cutlery such as silverware or sacred utensils. The so-called silver stamps, like hallmarks, City mark or master mark provide information about this, where the item originally came from. The silver content can be in bars, Devices and jewelry can be read through the fineness stamp, as far as this is available.

At sports competitions, such as the Olympic Games, Silver medals are often given to the second winner of the competition. Also the gold medal, which is awarded at the Olympic Games, exists to 92,5 Percent made of the silvery precious metal and is only gilded by 6g gold. Also the awards in other areas are often with the designation “silver” Mistake. This includes, for example, the silver stylus, the silver bear, the silver bay leaf or the silver shoe.

The precious metal is also extremely popular in the field of musical instruments, because its high density gives it a warm and pleasant tone. In addition, its processing is simple and it is capable, the delicate wood of a flute, as in the case of the transverse flute, to replace.

The precious metal is due to the high optical reflectivity, the high thermal conductivity and the high electrical conductivity are predestined to be used in the fields of optics and electronics. Glass panes are often chemically silver-plated, resulting in the ability to reflect off glass mirrors. Also in the manufacture of heat reflectors, Light reflectors, This principle is used for optics and Christmas tree decorations. Conductive adhesives only become electrically and thermally through a suspension of silver powder.

The properties of the silver halides and the associated blackening when they decay through light are used in the area of ​​photographic paper. Since the year 1850 this technique was the basis of analog photography.

In the solder- and electrical engineering become silver alloy, for example with indium, Nickel, Zinn, Zinc and copper for so-called brazing with brazing alloys, used as conductive material and contact material. However, silver alloys are also used very frequently in the decorative sector and in dental technology.

One downside is, that silver utensils and silver dishes always give some of their metal to the drinks and food during use. In the case of wine, for example, this can lead to an unpleasant aftertaste of metal. So that this can be avoided, Such drinking vessels are often gold-plated on the inside. If tarnishing occurs due to the silver sulfide, it can either be chemically reduced or polished.

Silverware and jewelry

As a rule, silverware and jewelry are made from what is known as sterling silver, or standard silver, manufactured. This sterling silver corresponds to an alloy with a silver content of 92,5 Percent and 7,5 Percent copper. In terms of its hardness, the sterling silver is, which one with the number 925 is stamped, stronger than pure silver. Its melting point is also with 893 Degrees Celsius lower. An alternative to sterling silver is Britannia silver. This has 95,8 Percent pure silver and is often used for this, to make wrought iron plates or silver dishes. If germanium is added, the modified and patented alloy Argentium Sterling is created, which has even more powerful properties and is more resistant to scale formation.

Sterling silver jewelry is usually finished with a very thin layer of fine silver 0,999 overdrawn, so that the surface of the object shines nicely. This process is also known as flashing. Jewelry from the precious metal can be either with gold, in the case of gold-plated silver jewelry, or with rhodium, in the case of shiny, bright jewelry, be coated. The silver metal is contained in almost all colored alloys with gold or gold solders, to give the alloy a higher degree of hardness or a paler color. In white 9 Carat gold jewelry is always a silver content of 62,5 Percent and a gold share of only 37,5 Find percent. Against it has 22 Carat gold over a silver component (or copper) of only 8,4 Percent and a share of gold of 91,7 percent.

Silver jewelry

The precious metal plays an important role in the manufacture of jewelry. Because it has a high level of resilience, has an attractive appearance and the value of the material itself is quite high. The most important silver alloy is 925 silver. In addition to the production of jewelry, this is also used for the production of musical instruments, Used cutlery and coins. It has a high degree of hardness, especially compared to pure silver, that is why it is so important and popular. The name is made up of this, that here always 92,5 Percent pure silver is included, which is combined with other metals in an alloy. Usually copper is used for such an alloy, which makes the color of the material darker than the original pure silver. The 925 silver is also known under the name sterling silver, which refers to the name of the currency in Britain, the pound sterling, can lead back. In earlier times, 925 silver was used for the production of silver pennies in England, also known as sterling. Sterling silver is also very popular in the manufacture of jewelry, whether with watches, Bangles, Chains or rings.

The blacksmithing

From a historical point of view, the guild organization and training for goldsmiths always included silversmiths. Even today, the two trades are still closely related. The difference is in that, that the silversmiths do not work their material like the blacksmith then, when it's still scorching hot, but only at room temperature. This is then done by carefully placed and gentle blows with the hammer. The silversmith's art is at the basis, that a flat piece of metal is turned into a usable object. Simple tools are used for this, such as stakes or the hammer.

Often the actual silversmiths were also referred to as goldsmiths, since they were of the same guild. Silversmiths specialized in it, Silverware such as candlesticks, Peel, Manufacture crockery and cutlery. The manufacture of jewelry has only recently been added. The production of table silver, on the other hand, is no longer very widespread.

Finishes and coatings

The precious metal has long been an indispensable part of the jewelry sector. It enjoys continued popularity. The elegant sheen of silver goes well with a variety of looks and different styles. The precious metal can be coated in different ways, what makes the jewelry even more versatile. For example, the jewelry can come in classic yellow gold or modern rose gold. The techniques, with which such a coating can be achieved, are different. It can be done by diving, rolling on a metallic foil, can be achieved by casting or welding. Ion plating is particularly popular today, which is durable. At the beginning of this process, the jewelry surface is cleaned first, this is done by bombarding them with ions. Then the jewelry is steamed, whereby a special layer is formed on the original object. Strong heating takes place during this production stage. In addition to a change in color, the ion plating also achieves a higher resistance to signs of wear.

Silver alloys and silver itself can discolor over time. The reason for this is because of this, that the metal reacts with hydrogen sulfide, which is in the surrounding air. As a consequence of the chemical reaction, what is known as silver sulfide is formed. This leaves a black color on the jewelry. So that this type of color change can be prevented, the jewelry is often given a protective layer of rhodium. This is also known as rhodium plating. The rhodium plating takes place by bathing the jewelry in rhodium sulfate. This process protects the jewelry from unpleasant tarnishing and is also harder.

The silversmith

A craftsman, who makes things out of gold or silver, is known as a silversmith. Gold- and silversmith, however, cannot be used as absolute synonyms, as the final results of the work can vary greatly, also, when the guilds, the history, the training and the technology used are largely similar. Goldsmiths often also work with silver, But silversmiths don't necessarily work with gold.

On the one hand, the blacksmithing of silver can be used for jewelry production. In addition, she also means the craft, which hollow parts, Sculptures, Manufactures household items and cutlery.

Overlapping and related trades

Of course, jewelers also work with gold and silver. Many processes and techniques in the field of working with silver and gold overlap here. But the silversmiths and jewelers have historically a different story. The manufacture of necklaces and settings for precious stones was a job for jewelers. The classic silversmiths were not involved in this work.

The tradition of gold- and silversmiths have been unbroken for thousands of years.

silver – Proper care

It is totally normal, that the jewelry changes in color over time. This is nothing, which indicates an inadequate quality of the jewelry. Proper care is important with silver products, so that the spread of silver sulfide can be prevented. There are also other useful tricks, whereby the jewelry remains shiny and beautiful to look at for a long time:

• The jewelry should not be kept in places with high humidity such as the kitchen or bathroom. Because of the moisture prevailing there, the tarnishing of the jewelry is accelerated. A dry and dark place is best for storage. It is optimal, Stow the jewelry in a plastic box or airtight bag.
• The tarnishing reaction can also be accelerated by using cosmetics. The jewelry should not come into contact with perfume or creams.
• Also should be avoided, that the jewelry with some kind of rubber, such as rubber bands or rubber gloves comes into contact, these leave dark spots on the jewelry.
• At the first noticeable discoloration, the jewelry should be cleaned and polished. The cleaning is all the more gentle, the less of the silver sulfide needs to be removed from the jewelry. There are different options for cleaning: The jewelry can be rubbed off with a silver cloth, a silver bath can be carried out or the silver jewelery can be cleaned with a special care cream.
• Silver jewelry, which was rhodium-plated, should never be cleaned with special cleaning agents, because the protective layer can be removed from it.

Caring for silver jewelry properly

Unfortunately, it cannot be avoided completely, silver jewelry discolor or tarnish. It's a perfectly normal chemical reaction, while in the air the small particles of hydrogen sulfide oxidize with the ions of silver. This causes silver sulfide to form on the surface of the silver jewelry, which is dark in color. It cannot be avoided completely, however, the process can be delayed, when the silver is protected from it. It is recommended, to wrap the silver in organza fabric. It is an even more optimal option, to store the silver in a tightly closed box or casket. Contact with strong acids should be avoided, such as chlorine, as this can damage the silver. In water, which contains chlorine, So silver should never be worn, for example when visiting the swimming pool.

It is also not recommended, Choose silver as the material for wedding rings. Because the material is not very hard and a wedding ring, that is worn every day, is exposed to high loads. Silver is not a perfect starting point for this.

General information

It is totally normal, that jewelry, which is worn every day in everyday life, is exposed to some influences in terms of climate and physics. The jewelry gets scratches and signs of wear in a very natural way. The texture of the surfaces of the jewelry changes over time. However, these are normal signs of wear, which gives the jewelry its very personal and individual touch.