Because of its superiority as an electrical conductor, silver is used extensively for contacts, conductors and other components by the electrical and electronics industries, especially in equipment where a high degree of dependability is required. Satellites, spacecraft and guidance systems are typical examples. Altogether, more than 25 per cent of all industrial silver is incorporated into electronic and electrical equipment. Sterling for example, is 92.5 per cent silver and 7.5 per cent copper. In jewelry silver, the proportions normally are 80 per cent and 20 percent.
Silver plating is a less expensive way to produce decorative pieces and tableware.
In this process, a thin coating of silver is applied by electrolysis to an object made of a cheaper metal. As the silver plate wears with time and use, however, the base metal eventually shows through. Another common application of silver, familiar to everyone, is the coating on glass . Silver is also widely used in dentistry and medicine. About 20 per cent of the annual industrial consumption of silver goes into sterling, plate, jewelry, mirrors, and dental and medical supplies.