How Silver is Used in
Different Cultures
Sterling silver is a precious metal that is synonymous with
true poise and elegance. From lavish bracelets to fashionable and trendy
earrings, sterling silver jewelry sets continue to soar in global popularity. While
mainly for fashion and design purposes, silver has many uses across a myriad of
cultures. In fact, it was a common staple in Transylvania thousands of years
ago – to fend off vampires and clans of werewolves. While many still believe in
these myths today, the fact is that silver plated jewelry pieces are widely
utilized for their spiritual and mystical powers. From tackling certain medical
ailments to warding off the evil eye, silver has many meanings in countless
cultures and traditions across the world.
The Impact of Silver
on Camelot
While silver serves a symbol of status and power, countless
individuals over the ages have used this metal to define themselves and their
places in society. No truer is this then when it comes to the Knights of the
Round Table. While under the tutelage of King Arthur in Camelot, the Knights
draped themselves in silver, gold, and even platinum. This was said to bring
unforeseen power and strength, while helping them capture the true allure and
essence of royal servitude. As subjects of the King, Sir Lancelot and his
fellow knights also wore silver on the battlefields – to foster greater inner
strength and divinity against the evil forces that surrounded them.
Silver and the
Philistines
As an ancient culture, the Philistines relied on silver for
trade and village growth. While they too believed in the mystical and healing
powers of silver stones, their use of the metal was primarily for commercial
purposes. It was silver that helped the Philistines foster greater communications
and commerce with local tribes and village trading posts. Like gold dust, some
were said to even consume silver as a way for purifying the body, mind, and
soul. While this practice is long gone, the cultural significance of silver is
still felt in many parts of the world today. Like the ancient Mayans, Incas,
and Aztecs, Indonesian tribes use silver as a way to celebrate the bonds of
holy matrimony. From Java to Sumatra, silver is also offered a gift to families
celebrating the birth of a child.
Silver and the
Mystics
While gold is considered the
metal of the sun, silver has long been seen as the metal of the moon. In fact,
many cultures believe that silver has a profound effect over the mind and
emotions. Similarly, silver has mystical healing powers, and is designed to
protect the wearer from evil eyes and malicious thoughts. By reflecting and
illuminating light from the moon and sun, silver is said to have natural
energies that can ward off evil and shield from negativity. For thousands of
years, cultures have taken to silver for promoting love, mental clarity, and
inner happiness. This is no different today; however, most consumers prefer sterling
silver jewelry stores for dazzling ornaments and sets that will be cherished
for years to come.
