Synthesis and mesomorphism of 3,4-dialkoxyphenylpyridine complexes of silver(I)

•Metallomesogens based on 4-phenylpyridine complexes of silver(I) are made.•Complexes characterised by microscopy, DSC and small-angle X-ray methods.•Cubic and columnar hexagonal phases are observed.•Mesomorphism is compared with analogous silver salts and ionic materials.•Significant stabilisation of the columnar hexagonal phase is observed.