If you shop for jewelry...and what girl doesn't, you should know the different types of metal used and what you are paying for. Why are some "silver " items so much more expensive than others? It can be confusing for sure, so today I am giving you all a lesson on silver metals. Sometimes you will hear the term "silver tone"used in describing a piece of jewelry. All that silver tone implies, is that the metal used looks like silver, it is a silver color, but there is no real silver content in the metal.
"Silver plated" is when a very thin layer of real silver is bonded to a metal core. Silver plated jewelry is more affordable than sterling silver or fine silver, however, with time and wear, the silver color can rub off. Be careful when shopping, as I have seen items listed as "sterling silver plated"...which can be a bit confusing to the buyer. "Is that silver plated or sterling silver?" It IS silver plated!
"Sterling silver" is least 92.5 % pure, with 7.5% parts of another metal, usually copper, which gives the silver its hardness. When you see an item stamped .925, that is the hallmark of sterling silver. Jewelry made from sterling silver will last a lifetime, although you will need to clean it regularly to prevent tarnish from building up. Silver, reacts with the sulfur or hydrogen sulfide in the air causing it to tarnish. Although I find that by wearing my sterling silver jewelry, it tends not to tarnish as quickly.
. "Fine silver" is 99.9% pure, and is a very soft metal. Thai silver is a very fine silver,and is very often 97-99% pure. I use sterling silver and fine silver in my jewelry designs. Next time I will discuss caring for your sterling silver jewelry!
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