When archeologists uncovered silver jewelry during excavations of the ancient Sumerian city, Ur, they were able to establish a starting point that hovered around 3,000 BC. Through careful research, it was concluded that the primary sources for mined silver were extracted from mines positioned about Anatolia, which today is called Turkey. Some experts credit the Chaldeans as being the first culture to extract silver at around 2,500 BC.

When 1,000 BC rolled around, it was North and South America that began to perfect and enhance the techniques associated with silversmithing, but would not be able to measure with the production that came from the Larium mines located close to Athens. It was around 900 BC that this destination would hold the coveted title of leader in silver producing mines, an honor that continued for the next 1,000 years.

During 200 BC, Korea enjoyed its first taste of silversmithing when Chinese immigrants brought their knowledge to the country. It is during this same time that the Korean use of silver reached Japan, although the people never truly embraced the concept. Throughout the years, silver would become an important entity within the Chinese culture, as silverwork held great importance during the T'ang Dynasty. During 1,000 AD, the Sung Dynasty brought the Repousse technique to the forefront, which involved the shaping of silver through hammering the reverse side to achieve ornamentation.

Historical records from Rome reveal that as time passed, silver was used to fashion coins and a variety of household items that produced a wealth of attractive artifacts now decorating the display cases of renowned museums across the globe. This was not the first time that silver appeared in past accounts relating to the element. In regards to Christian doctrine, Judas Iscariot, a disciple of Jesus, was known to have taken thirty pieces of silver as a bribe from religious leaders to surrender Jesus Christ to the High Priests.

A variety of cultures began to utilize silver as a way to create popular household products. The Indus culture hailing from India used silver to create drinking vessels during the 1st century AD that rivaled Hellenistic examples. Soon after, silver mines began to spring up around the world, including parts of Spain, Germany, and Austria-Hungary.

During the 16th century, conquered Mexicans, Andeans, and Costa Rican Indians inhabiting the New World exhibited silversmith skills that impressed the Spanish armies with their level of ability and creativity. Soon, European conquests would exploit the silver found in Bolivia, Peru and Mexico. The changes in silver production and craftsmanship began to expand during the 17th century. Native American tribes in New York, such as the Iroquois, transformed European silver coins into decorative jewelry. At this same time, royalty in India began to show more interest in silver vessels. Techniques, such as cold hammering, embossing, and false filigree were now popular.

As more time passed, further advanced techniques were created. The 19th century saw the invention of electroplating, while the 20th century brought about the discovery of major deposits of silver scattered about Colorado, Nevada and Utah.

Today, silver trinkets are sold in fine jewelry outlets, mall kiosks, department stores, supermarkets and of course online. Remaining a popular material used for creating dazzling gemstone silver rings, pretty sterling silver heart pendants, and impressive silver bangle bracelets, there is a never-ending supply of selections to choose from on the present market.