Mineral (Native Element)
Silver (Jewelry Specimen)
Native Silver (Ag)
Hardness: 2.5-3 (Mohs scale); Color: Metallic silvery-white (tarnishes to black); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 10.5
- Hardness
- 2
- Color
- Metallic silvery-white (tarnishes to black)
- Luster
- Metallic
Identified More mineral (native element) →
Identify your own rocks.
Get a report just like this from any photo, free.
Physical properties
Hardness: 2.5-3 (Mohs scale); Color: Metallic silvery-white (tarnishes to black); Luster: Metallic; Crystal Structure: Isometric/Cubic; Cleavage: None; Specific Gravity: 10.5
Formation & geological history
Formed in hydrothermal veins, often associated with gold, copper, or lead deposits; can also occur as a secondary mineral in oxidized zones of ore deposits. Most deposits are hundreds of millions of years old.
Uses & applications
Primary use in jewelry, electronics, solar panels, currency, and photography. Highly valued for its electrical and thermal conductivity.
Geological facts
Silver has been used by humans since antiquity; it is the most reflective element and possesses natural antimicrobial properties.
Field identification & locations
Identify in the field by its high density, metallic luster, and malleability. Commonly found in mining districts in Peru, Mexico, and the Western United States. Collectors look for 'wire silver' or 'leaf silver' forms.
More like this
Other mineral (native element) specimens
Graphite
Graphite (Chemical Formula: C)
Mineral (Native Element)
Rose Gold (Copper-Gold Alloy)
Aurum-Cuprum Alloy (Au-Cu)
mineral (native element alloy)
Silver (Native Element)
Ag (Argentum) - 90% Silver, 10% Copper alloy in specimen
mineral
Diamond
Native Carbon (C)
mineral
Gold Nugget
Native Gold (Au)
mineral
Gold
Gold (Native Element); Au
mineral