Silver

Of almost all materials in Yophas, silver is the most conducive to magic (aside from some exceptionally rare materials, like Akrium). Believed by many to be a holy metal, the creation myths of the Reshaping hold that Alindr created silver to be the magic metal: the foundation of all magical acts and enchantments. Whether or not the origin is true, silver most certainly is the magic metal. Almost all uses of silver are of a magical nature, be it mixing silver flakes into ink to scribe scrolls or forging rings of pure silver to hold magical energy and enchantments.
Silver is not, of course, the only metal that can hold or conduct magic; in fact, save for Gold and Lead, almost all metals (almost all materials, in fact) are connected to the lunar-arcane and thus can be manipulated by or used in magic. None, however, come close to silver's potency. Silver is the "gold standard" for magical materials, making almost any spell, enchantment, or rune more potent and/or less energy intensive to create.

Silver's Innate Potential

Almost all things are connected to the lunar-arcane (that fifth dimension of reality, the dimension of energy and magic), and most things have a specific trace in the lunar-arcane. Certain plants resonate with the lunar-arcane in the same ways that medicamancy does; thus, they are "healing herbs." These specific energy resonances lead to materials being used as components for specific spells.
Silver, on the other hand, is a universal resonance. The barrier between silver's physical existence and its magical existence is very thin; thus, it acts as the superconductor of magical energy that it is, and it does not track with specific resonances like other materials, and can thus be used for almost any spell.

An Emblem of Arcane Power and Wealth

It's important to note that silver is not a prerequisite for powerful magic or long-lasting enchantments---it merely makes them more potent. Silver is a fine metal, and is thus rarer than many materials. While silver trinkets or silver ink may be relatively common (if not expensive), pure silver jewelry, wands, and staves are much more rare, and debilitatingly expensive. As such, the acquisition and display of silver trinkets and accoutrements is a sign of power in arcane circles; the most powerful mages acquire the greatest wealth, which in turn buys more silver.

Type

Metal