Silver
Silver
What Is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is the most common alloy mix found in jewelry. It must be at least 92.5% pure silver, but the other 7.5% can be any metal. Typically, this alloy is copper. Centuries of experimentation have shown copper to be silver’s best companion, without affecting its beautiful colour. Often abbreviated as 925, sterling silver is a high-quality alloy that makes stunning jewelry for all occasions.
History Of Silver
Making jewelry and currency out of sterling silver has been a practice for a very long time—since around the 12th century to be more accurate. Silver coins from this era were referred to as “Easterlings,” especially in the cattle markets. Eventually, the name was shortened to “Sterling” which is now used to denote the highest grade of silver. Fondly referred to as “the metal of the moon,” because of its milky white and greyish colour.
Hallmark Of Silver
There are several types of sterling silver according to different content, and the standards of sterling silver with different silver content are also different, Sterling silver is commonly stamped with what’s known as a hallmark. The hallmark indicates the amount of pure silver content, and sometimes denotes the date of completion and country of origin. And under federal law, it must be accompanied by a maker's mark or registered trademark. Acceptable quality marks for sterling silver include:
- Sterling
- Sterling silver
- Ster
- 0.925
- 0.990
- Ag925 S925
Common Uses For Sterling Silver In Jewelry
Sterling Silver Rings
Silver rings symbolize commitment and happiness. There are thousands of symbols of love in the world, only one pair of rings is our true symbol of love. Couples' silver rings are an unspeakable love code.SHOP SILVER RINGS
Sterling Silver Necklaces
Due to sterling silver’s light weight and its durable properties, this alloy is one of the most popular among craftspeople.Sterling Silver Earrings
Lightweight and comfortable,sterling silver earrings are a perfect option for any style. There are a variety of styles to enjoy such as studs, dangles, and silver hoop earrings. Many silver earrings also include gemstones and pearls for added beauty.Other Types Of Silver Jewelry At Tenhor
What’s The Best Way To Care For Sterling Silver Jewelry?
With proper care, your fine-quality sterling silver jewelry will last a lifetime. To minimise scratches and other damage, store your silver jewelry in either a cloth pouch or a separate compartment in your jewelry box. Avoid exposing your silver to household chemicals, like bleach and ammonia or when swimming in chlorinated water, as these chemicals can damage sterling silver.
Clean Your Silver Jewelry Regularly
Care should also be taken to prevent silver tarnish buildup, a dulling that naturally occurs when silver reacts with sulfur or hydrogen sulfide in the ambient air. To clean your silver, use a soft cloth with a polish formulated specifically to remove tarnish. You can find fine silver polishes, solutions, or cloths appropriate to remove tarnish at hardware stores or specialty craft stores. Tarnish is most easily removed when it first becomes visible, although wearing your silver jewelry often is the best way to prevent tarnish from building up. Regular cleanings of all your silver items will prevent tarnish and keep your silver bright and sparkly.
Is The Jewelry At Tenhor Made With Sterling Silver?
All of our silver jewelry is made using beautiful sterling silver, offering high-quality pieces for any occasion.
Sterling Silver Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the difference between sterling silver and pure silver?
Is pure silver good for jewelry?
Is sterling silver valuable?
Does sterling silver tarnish?
Yes, 925 sterling silver can tarnish when it’s exposed to certain chemicals, high humidity or sulfur. You may notice that sterling silver jewelry left in the open air on top of a dresser, in a jewelry storage box or even in its own pouch turns a different colour over time. Typically, silver will form a layer of dark coloring across the surface as it tarnishes. This layer of tarnish is a sulfide coating that can be easily removed with a quick pass using a jewelry polishing cloth. For heavily tarnished pieces, jewelry can assist with polishing silver back to its original shine.
