Chryselectrum

/ˌkrɪsɪˈlɛktrəm/ noun

Definition

An ancient alloy of gold and silver that was highly valued in classical antiquity for making coins, jewelry, and decorative objects.

Etymology

From Greek 'chrysos' (gold) + 'elektron' (amber, but also an alloy). The Romans treasured this naturally occurring mixture that simplified precious metal working.

Kelly Says

Chryselectrum was the accidental jackpot of ancient metallurgy—when gold deposits naturally contained silver, craftsmen got a bonus material that was easier to work with than pure gold!

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