Silver

Silver, chemical element, symbol Ag; for physical constants see Periodic Table. Silver has been known and used since ancient times. It occurs in nature as argentite and horn silver, and is sometimes found uncombined. The element is produced as a byproduct from ores. It has the highest electrical and thermal conductivity of all metals. In the past silver was used as a coinage metal, but its value as bullion has driven silver coins from circulation. Silver is the best reflector of visible light known and a poor reflector of ultraviolet. Silver and its compounds are used in photography, jewelry, for mirrors and in dentistry.