How Do We Get It? – Tungsten. The Origin of Tungsten: A Versatile and Valuable Element. Tungsten, symbolized as W on the periodic table, is a remarkable element that possesses extraordinary properties and applications. This dense, steel-gray metal is renowned for its high melting point, exceptional strength, and superb electrical conductivity. Tungsten has a fascinating origin and an intriguing journey from its natural occurrence to its commercial production today.