Silver and gold continues to hold its sway over mankind from time immemorial. In some instances in Egypt silver was considered to be more important and holy than gold. Silver in its natural form is found with gold mixed with other substances.

There are rich silver mines dotted in Peru, Mexico, China and Australia. Silver is a malleable metal and as such the ideal stuff for making silver necklaces. It is this softness that enables silver necklaces and other silver items to be handcrafted. Generally small doses of copper are added to silver to make it hard and durable.

The problems facing the manufacturer of silver necklaces are two fold – porosity and fire stains. The silver has to be heated and melted to give it shape. When it cools some bubbles of air get trapped.

The second problem is that the fire leaves behind a red stain.All these have to be overcome by master silversmiths crafting silver necklaces.

The maker of the silver necklaces stamps it with its own individual or hall mark for purposes of identification. Silver necklaces may be plain or twisted into ropes and chains. Often the silver necklaces are mounted with priceless jewels.

Silver is said to be a chemical element, grayish in colour and radiant. It is an excellent conductor of electricity. White gold is produced by mixing silver with gold. Ancient silver necklaces have been found in the tomb of a queen at Ur in Sumeria going back to 3,000 BC.

The body was covered with ornaments from head to toe. The Aegean islands were rich in silver. Priam’s treasure contained many silver items of priceless value. In the Far East the Chinese silversmiths crafted some of the finest silver necklaces that were sent to the Royal court of Russia.

Amongst the notable designer silver necklaces is the Figaro – a link chain that has small circular links joined by a long oval link. These are especially crafted in Italy and are worn by men while showing off the medals and crosses fixed to these silver necklaces.

The Figaro can also be made of gold. For the modern buyer the best advice is to look for the sterling stamp that may be 925 or Ster or Sterling. This guarantees the product. Online the latest designs of silver necklaces with unique lockets are a feast for the eyes - sweetheart locket that can be opened to hold a picture or any small memento, heart lockets with keys, double heart lockets, hearts encrusted with jewels and many more.