SILVER TINSEL

 

It was in Germany that tinsel was first invented, and it was made from real silver.

A crude machine was used to shred the silver into thin strips which were then twisted onto a central wire.

This was indeed a luxury product although and obviously only available to the privileged classes.

However, the silver tinsel did not last forever as Silver would tarnish and lose its shine in time.

Despite its lack of longevity however it remained in use by those who could afford it until a cheaper artificial alternative was invented.