SILVER 

Silver is a chemical element with the chemical symbol Ag and atomic number 47. A soft, white, lustrous transition metal, it has the highest electrical conductivity of any element and the highest thermal conductivity of any metal. The metal occurs naturally in its pure, free form as an alloy with gold and other metals, and in minerals such as argentite and chlorargyrite. Most silver is produced as a by-product of copper, gold, lead, and zinc refining.

USES OF SILVER 

• Currency (coins)
• Ornaments
  
• Jewelry
• Tableware (Silverware)
• Batteries
• Bearings
• Brazing and soldering
• Catalysts
• Electrical contacts and conductors
• Photography applications
• Medical applications
• Mirrors and coatings
• Water purification
• Solar energy

SUPPLY

Global silver mine production rose by 4 percent in 2007, with particular gains from Chile, China and Mexico.  The top 10 producing countries in 2007 were as follows:

1. Peru (112.3 mill.oz)
   
2. Mexico (99.2)
3. China (82.4)
4. Chile (62.0)
5. Australia (60.4)
6. Poland (39.5)
7. Russia (38.0)
8. United States (37.3)
9. Canada (28.5)
10. Kazakhstan (22.7)

WHY INVEST IN SILVER

Investing in silver can be a very effective method of diversifying investment assets and preserving wealth against inflation.  Although silvers value may vary, it has an intrinsic value that is permanent.  It can be an important store of value.  For example, between 1971 and 1981, the U.S. dollar lost more than half its value, while silver prices rose nearly 5 times.

HOW TO INVEST IN SILVER

•  Exchange Traded Funds (ETF's)
• Silver mining stocks
• Silver bullion bars
• Silver mutual funds
• Silver bullion coins
• Silver medallions
• Silver certificates
• Silver futures contracts
• Silver options