Silver is one of the most treasured precious metals on the planet, and you can find it virtually everywhere. We’re all familiar with the silver antiques that our grandparents and great-grandparents have saved to pass along, but let’s explore common modern uses for silver. 

Cars

Silver has made its mark all over the motor vehicle industry. Vehicles rely just as heavily on silver as they do gasoline. Modern motor vehicles use silver-coated contacts for every electrical connection—for example, starting the engine, closing a power trunk or door, adjusting a power seat, and opening power windows. 

It also contributes to safety. Silver-ceramic lines get placed in the back (and front on newer models) windshields that generate heat to melt snow and ice. These lines also prevent the glass from fogging up. 

Solar Technology

Silver has a role in the process of converting sunlight into electricity. A silver powder becomes a paste that’s then loaded onto a silicon wafer. The silver carries the electricity after the light hits the silicon, setting the electrons free. The electricity can get used immediately or stored away. 

Electronics

If an electronic device has an on/off switch, there’s most likely silver inside. The ideal electric conductivity of this metal means it’s perfect for controls, television screens, and a whole bunch of other electric products. 

Medication

Silver helps to fight germs and is actually a long-time go-to antibiotic. Doctors would use several drops of silver nitrate to the eyes of newborns to protect against infections. Battlefield wounds would get wrapped in silver foil during WWI. You’ll also find silver coatings on medical instruments such as catheters and breathing tubes. 

Water Purification

Silver is found in many of the water purification systems on the market. Purifiers and filters rely on silver to prevent algae and bacteria from building up to do their job correctly. Oxygen and silver together create a powerful sanitizer. Hospitals, spas, pools, and community water supplies add silver ions to their water purifications systems. 

Engine Bearings

Helicopter and jet engines need silver to continue running. These engines run for long periods and at high temperatures, thus requiring solid ball bearings. The machines become fortified with silver electroplating. To ensure safe engine shutdown, it also reduces tension between bearings and their housings. 

Jewelry

Many people own and wear sterling silver jewelry. Sterling silver differs from silver because it’s a mix of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper. This concoction has been the chosen metal for centuries due to its durability and low cost. 

Tableware

You’re probably familiar with the typical knives, forks, and spoons crafted from silver, but did you know you can find silver in bowls and other household items? Silver lasts a long time, hence why it’s been the chosen metal to create tableware for centuries. 

Silver has a long-standing and exciting history with many different industries across the planet. I hope you enjoyed learning more about this precious metal and the common modern uses for silver.