When was silver discovered?

Silver has been in use dating back to prehistoric times. The precise date of discovery is not known; however, silver objects have been found dating back to 3000 B.C.

Although the identity of the original discoverer is not known, scientists are almost certain that the first silver discovered was native silver. Native silver is rare, but it is sometimes found in rivers or minerals. Silver, along with gold, copper, iron and lead, are some of the first metals discovered and used by man. Silver was found in the early civilizations of Greece, Anatolia (modern day Turkey) and the Sumerian city of Kish.