In 2020, the average American spent about $62.12 on jewelry. If you want to invest in jewelry, you may have heard that a sterling silver bracelet is a great idea.
If not, you may want to consider making the switch. It’s one of the best metals for creating beautiful pieces of jewelry. The only downside is that you must be sure you can identify silver from other metals, such as its close relative, sterling silver.
You may not know it, but sterling silver jewelry is one of the best types of jewelry you can purchase. It’s timeless and is typically lower in price than other kinds of jewelry.
Keep reading everything you need to know about sterling silver jewelry before investing.
What is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver jewelry is an alloy containing 92.5% by weight of silver and 7.5% by weight of other metals, usually copper. The vast majority of silver jewelry on the market is sterling silver.
You can make silver jewelry from either sterling silver or pure silver. The main difference between the two is that pure silver is too soft for jewelry and needs to be mixed with another metal to make it harder. Sterling silver is a good choice for jewelry because it is strong enough to keep its shape and is more affordable than pure silver.
Sterling silver is also an excellent choice for sensitive skin, as it is hypoallergenic. While sterling silver is not as strong as some other metals, it can still be a great durable choice for everyday wear or as a gift. There are also a lot of intricate silver chains for women and men you can choose from for gifts or personal use.
How to Take Care of Your Sterling Silver Pieces
To keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best, you’ll need to avoid exposing it to chemicals, like chlorine, which can damage and discolor the metal. You’ll also want to take it off before going swimming or doing any other activity that could cause it to get scratched.
Sterling silver can tarnish but is not prone to staining as quickly as other metals. Keeping sterling silver jewelry clean and dry is crucial to prevent tarnishing.
When not wearing sterling silver jewelry, you should store it in a cool, dry place. Furthermore, polish it regularly with a silver polishing cloth to restore its shine.
How to Identify Authentic Sterling Silver Jewelry
One way to identify sterling silver is to look for a stamp that says “sterling” or “925.” It is an international symbol that indicates sterling silver.
Another way to identify sterling silver is by its color. Sterling silver is a bright white metal, so if the piece of jewelry is a yellow or gray color, it is likely not sterling silver. Furthermore, sterling silver is very soft, so if you can bend the piece with your fingers, it is likely not authentic sterling silver.
Accessorize Yourself with Sterling Silver Jewelry
Sterling silver jewelry is a popular and affordable choice for many people. It is a versatile metal that can be used in various jewelry styles. If you want something special and unique, sterling silver may be the right choice.
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