If you learn the differences between silver, silver plated,
and sterling silver jewelry it can make a
difference to the types of jewelry you decide to purchase
and it can help you determine if an
item’s value is worth the purchase price.
Most often, price is a good indicator of what kind of silver
a jewelry piece is comprised of, but it isn't always reliable.
Even though they all sound similar, there are
significant differences between silver plated
items and sterling silver items.
Be sure to read carefully what the item is made up of
so you will know what you are paying for
and what you can expect in terms of wear and durability.
Pure silver will always contain trace amounts of other
elements,even though it is 99.9% pure.
Pure silver does not make a very high quality
jewelry item.
It is extremely soft and therefore it does not
retain its’ shape very well.
Instead, look for sterling silver jewelry.
Sterling silver contains another metal mixed in with
the silver to give it increased
strength and durability.
Sterling silver is a mixture made up 92.5% silver and
7.5% of an alloy such as zinc, nickel, or copper.
Sterling silver jewelry may be marked with 925, .925,
or 92.5% somewhere on the piece.
It may tarnish over time, but it also has the benefit
of being shinier than pure silver jewelry.
To keep this type of jewelry looking its best,
keep it from getting wet and store it in a small,
sealed plastic bag when it isn't being worn.
Silver plated jewelry means that the item is
coated with a thin silver coating;
however the materials used underneath the
silver coating can vary greatly.
Silver plating is often used for cheap fashion jewelry
that is made of steel or other poor quality metal.
Jewelry made with silver plated material often bends,
stretches, and breaks,
and the finish can wear off quickly.
When purchasing silver plated jewelry the key is to look for
the thickness of the coating.
In general, the thicker the coating, the longer it will last
so long as it is cared for properly.
being educated about the differences between silver,
silver plated, and sterling silver jewelry
will allow you to make an informed decision
about your purchase.
If you are looking for a fun every-day piece,
silver plated jewelry is fine.
If you are looking for quality, however, look for
well-constructed sterling silver items
and wear them with confidence
knowing that you are wearing an item that is
durable and that will stand the test of time.
I use only sterling silver beads
and findings in my handmade jewelry
because I am committed to presenting quality jewelry.
Your comments are welcome
