ABSTRACT
Metals have been in use since at least the Neolithic and Chalcolithic periods and continue to be one of the most important materials in industry and daily use. The use and value of metals differed from one culture to another and from one time period to another; however, metals remained one of the most prominent commodities in the ancient world and helped drive the economy. As society evolved so, too, did their need and use of metals. For example, the introduction of coinage increased the demand for silver and gold. Some of the most used metals are discussed in this chapter as well as brief discussions regarding obtaining the metal, mines, mining, smelting purification, and casting.
