With the global economy as it is, is now a good time to invest in silver or not?

[marskelly]

Is a rise in silver values dependent on a consumption economy (which would mean now isn't the time to buy) or is silver a good hedge against a poor performing stock market (as investors may turn to silver when property or the stock market isn't performing?). The above ground supply of silver was decreasing because of the high level of demand in industry but what is happening now - is it likely to be more (or less) desirable for investors now?