Discovered : 1842 by C.G. Mosander Isolated in Stockholm, Sweden Origin : the element is named after the Swedish town of Ytterby, where the mineral from which it was first isolated was discovered. Description : A soft, silvery metallic element. It finds little use as a metal because it slowly tarnishes in air and is attacked by water. It is employed in the manufacture of special safety glasses for welders and metal workers. Image : Erbium is used in producing pink glazes in ceramics.