The use of silver as a biocide dates back to ancient civilizations, where Egyptians, Persians, and Greeks discovered its remarkable properties. They observed that water kept in silver containers remained fresher longer and had fewer instances of illness associated with its consumption. This empirical knowledge laid the foundation for silver's role in antimicrobial applications.

• Phoenicians stored water, wine, and vinegar in silver vessels to prevent spoilage
• Persian kings exclusively drank from silver cups for protection against disease
• Silver vessels were proven essential for preserving food and water during long journeys
• Multiple ancient texts documented silver's healing and antimicrobial properties

Silver gained prominence in medicine and food preservation.

• Wealthy families used silver utensils to prevent disease
• Silver coins were placed in milk to prevent spoilage
• The term "born with a silver spoon" originated from this era
• Sailors used silver to purify drinking water during voyages

Scientific understanding of silver's properties emerged.

• Silver nitrate was used to treat wounds and infections
• Carl Crede introduced silver nitrate eye drops for newborns
• Surgeons began using silver sutures
• First scientific studies on silver's antimicrobial properties

Modern medical applications of silver were developed.

• Introduction of colloidal silver as a treatment
• Development of silver sulfadiazine for burn treatment
• Integration into medical devices and equipment
• Research into silver's mechanism of action against bacteria

Advanced applications in healthcare and technology.

• Development of silver nanoparticles for medical applications
• Integration into consumer products like clothing and cosmetics
• Use in water filtration systems
• Research into combating antibiotic-resistant bacteria