And Nucryst might apply its patented manufacturing process, which breaks the bulk silver down and then builds it back up atom by atom into silver nanocrystals, to other noble metals like gold and platinum for formulations to treat diseases as diverse as arthritis and cancer.

FORBES: Nucryst's Nano Silver Lining

When struck by light, the electrons in an atom of silver vibrate in a way that causes them to radiate small amounts of light themselves.

ECONOMIST: Solar energy