8 Strange & Surprising Facts About Silver
At Bella’s Silver Class, we don’t just teach you how to make jewellery—we also love to share the magic and mystery behind the materials we work with. And silver? It’s one of the most fascinating metals on Earth. Here are 8 strange and surprising facts about silver that might just make you love your jewellery even more.
Bella Bonita
6/25/20252 min read
1. Silver Fights Germs All By Itself
Silver naturally kills bacteria, fungi, and even some viruses. That’s why ancient cultures used silver cups, plates, and water jugs—to keep things fresher and safer before fridges or disinfectants ever existed.
2. Silver Spoons Were Baby Medicine
Ever heard the phrase “born with a silver spoon in your mouth”? It wasn’t just about wealth. In Europe, silver was given to babies because it was believed to protect them from illness. Silver teething rings were once a common gift!
3. It’s the Most Reflective Metal in the World
Silver reflects 95% of visible light. That’s why it’s used in mirrors, space telescopes, and even high-end solar panels. No other metal reflects light better.
4. It Can Turn You Blue (Literally)
People who consume too much colloidal silver (a liquid silver supplement) can develop argyria, a rare condition that turns the skin blue-grey permanently. It’s not common—but it’s real.
5. It’s Tricky to Detect with Magnets
Silver isn’t magnetic, and its high electrical conductivity means it often slips through basic metal detectors. That’s why fake silver coins or jewellery are sometimes filled with lead or other heavy metals to mimic the weight.
6. Vampires Hate Silver (Apparently)
In folklore, silver is known as the metal of purity and protection. That’s why silver bullets are said to kill werewolves, and silver crosses ward off vampires. Even today, some people wear silver for spiritual shielding.
7. Sterling Silver Isn’t 100% Silver
Sterling silver (what you’ll use in class!) is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Pure silver is too soft to wear—so the mix gives your jewellery both shine and strength.
8. It’s in Your Phone and Rockets
Every smartphone has a little silver in its circuits, and silver is used in aerospace for its incredible conductivity—even in space shuttles!
Make Your Own Piece of Magic
Whether you're making a ring, pendant, or custom design, your silver creation isn’t just a keepsake—it’s a connection to history, science, and stories from all around the world.
Ready to make your own piece of silver magic?
Join us at Bella’s Silver Class in Sanur, Bali. Craft, learn, and take home something truly special.