First Uses of the Periodic Table Element -Magnesium. The Definitive Guide to Magnesium: From Ancient Marvel to Modern Misjudgment. Magnesium, a remarkable metal with diverse properties, has played a significant role throughout human history. From its first uses in ancient times to its decline in certain applications, the evolution of magnesium tells a compelling story of discovery and advancement. In this article, we will explore the first uses of magnesium and why it is no longer employed for those purposes.