Silver Guide

Understanding Silver Properties

Silver is a precious metal known for its brilliant white luster, high electrical and thermal conductivity, and antimicrobial properties. It has been used for thousands of years in currency, jewelry, tableware, and more recently, in various industrial applications.

Physical Properties of Silver

Symbol: Ag (from Latin "argentum")
Atomic Number: 47
Melting Point: 961.8°C (1763.2°F)
Boiling Point: 2162°C (3924°F)
Density: 10.49 g/cm³
Malleability: Extremely malleable (can be hammered into sheets as thin as 0.00025 mm)
Ductility: Highly ductile (can be drawn into wire)
Conductivity: Highest electrical and thermal conductivity of all metals

Silver Purity Standards

Like gold, silver is often alloyed with other metals to increase its durability for various applications. Understanding silver purity standards is essential for investors and collectors.

Standard	Silver Content	Common Uses	Markings
Fine Silver	99.9% pure	Bullion, some jewelry	.999, 999
Sterling Silver	92.5% pure	Jewelry, tableware, decorative items	.925, 925, STERLING
Coin Silver	90% pure	Historical coins, some older silverware	.900, 900, COIN
Britannia Silver	95.8% pure	High-end silverware, some British coins	.958, 958, BRITANNIA
Mexican Silver	95% pure	Mexican jewelry and decorative items	.950, 950

Understanding Silver Properties

Physical Properties of Silver

Silver Purity Standards

Current Silver Price

Silver Guide Topics