Silver has been a valuable metal for centuries. It is known for its lustrous appearance and malleability, making it an ideal material for crafting jewelry, coins, and other decorative objects.
But what was silver called in ancient times? Let’s explore the various names and uses of this precious metal in different civilizations.
Ancient Egypt
In Ancient Egypt, silver was known as “Hemag” or “Hemage”. It was considered a precious metal and was used to create exquisite jewelry pieces such as necklaces, bracelets, and earrings. Silver was also used to make religious objects such as statues of gods and goddesses.
Ancient Greece
In Ancient Greece, silver was called “Argentum”. The Greeks were known for their love of silver and often used it to make coins as well as decorative objects such as vases and utensils. The Olympic medals awarded to athletes were made of silver until 1912.
Roman Empire
The Romans also valued silver greatly and referred to it as “Argentum”. They used it extensively in their currency system by minting coins made from the metal. Silver was also used to make tableware, jewelry, and other decorative items.
Medieval Europe
During the Middle Ages in Europe, silver continued to be highly prized. It was often referred to simply as “silver” or “argent” in French. The wealthy would use it to create elaborate household items such as chalices, candlesticks, and plates.
Modern Times
Today, we still refer to this precious metal by its elemental symbol ‘Ag’. Silver is widely used in modern times for a variety of purposes including jewelry making, electronics manufacturing, medical equipment production, and more.
In Conclusion
Throughout history, silver has been known by various names in different cultures. Despite the differences in names, one thing remains constant: silver’s value and importance. From ancient times to modern day, this precious metal continues to be an integral part of our lives.