Silver Jewellery

Silver is a valuable metal that has been used as ornamentation for millennia. Although it is a precious metal like gold or platinum, it is much more affordable, making it possible to own many pieces. This is just one of the reasons for its increasing popularity as an elegant metal used to create silver jewellery. Qualities that make silver an excellent metal for crafting jewellery include its malleability and ductility. Silver sheets can be hammered so thin that a stack of hundreds will not be an inch in height. Silver wire can be pulled to a thinness that equals that of human hair. The possibilities for exquisite and intricate designs make silver a favorite among jewellery makers.

Pure silver is too soft for use as jewellery, so it is combined with other metals to form an alloy. Copper is the most commonly used metal in silver alloys, adding strength yet retaining the soft glow of the silver. Sterling silver is an alloy of silver and copper or other metals that contains at least 92.5 percent pure silver.

Sterling must be marked with its purity. Hallmarks indicating purity and maker are frequently used. Markings of sterling silver, sterling, ster, and 925 all indicate sterling. Some silver jewellery from Mexico and Bali has a higher silver content and may be marked 950. Although silver is not a reactive metal, silver alloys can tarnish. Using a soft cloth and silver polish will easily and safely clean sterling jewellery. Rhodium plating is increasingly popular as it creates a bright and tarnish free finish.

The value of sterling silver jewellery comes not only from the silver, but also from the craftsmanship involved in the production. Many silver pieces are made using precise machines. Others are hand crafted into uniquely beautiful pieces by jewellery artisans. Sterling is a versatile material and is used for chains, pendants, bracelets, rings, earrings, anklets, and other jewellery. Sterling may be used alone or combined with semi-precious stones, pearls or shell to create elegant pendants, striking bracelets, and fanciful earrings. Both Native American and Tibetan silversmiths favor turquoise and coral with silver. This is an ever-popular combination for striking fashion jewellery. Sleek modern designs may use semi-precious facetted stones like amethyst or citrine with sterling. Whether it is handcrafted, fanciful, elegant, or bold, sterling silver jewellery makes an impressive fashion statement yet is easy on the budget.