Its products and refining methods are described in the Bible and early Egyptian writings. Such sulphide ores often accompany copper , lead , and zinc ores. Silver is found in many parts of Canada. Important deposits are located near Cobalt, Ontario, Keremos, B.C. and at several locations in the Yukon and Northwest Territories. Current production of silver is mainly fromt eh recovery from the sludge that is produced during the electrolytic purification of copper.
Silver is a relatively soft metal which can be readily electrodeposited.
It is extremely sensitive to contamination by sulfur as silver sulfide tarnishes silver. Silver is ductile and malleable. It is usually alloyed with at least one other metal. The alloying metals not only dilute the silver content to make it more economical, but enhance its physical properties as well. This forms a strong joint in copper pipes, one which is less likely to corrode and leak, and also stands much higher pressure.