Final answer:
Metals are elements that are malleable, ductile, have a metallic luster, and are good conductors of electricity, often used in wires and jewelry.
Step-by-step explanation:
The elements described in the question are metals. Metals are characterized by their ability to conduct electricity and to be formed into various shapes due to their malleability (able to be hammered into sheets) and ductility (able to be drawn into wires). Not only do metals conduct electricity effectively, making them ideal for use in electrical conducting wires, but they also have a metallic lustre (shine), are generally solid at room temperature - with the exception of mercury, and tend to lose electrons to form ionic compounds when reacting with nonmetals.
Common metals like copper and gold are well-known for their shiny appearance and their utility in jewelry making. Furthermore, most metals have a high melting point and density, which contribute to their wide range of applications in various industries. While all elements vary in their chemical and physical properties, metals form a distinctive group due to these shared characteristics.