What is Sterling Silver?
So what actually is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is a popular metal used in jewellery and other decorative items. But what exactly is sterling silver and why is it so prized? Let's dive into the world of this beautiful metal.
What is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is a metal alloy made of 92.5% pure silver (which is why it is sometimes described as 925 sterling silver) and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination gives sterling silver its durability while still maintaining the beautiful look of silver.
Why is Sterling Silver Valued?
One of the main reasons sterling silver is valued is its purity. The 92.5% silver content makes it a high-quality metal. Additionally, sterling silver is more affordable than pure silver, making it accessible to a wider range of consumers.
How to Identify Sterling Silver
Authentic sterling silver items are often stamped with a "925" mark, indicating the silver content. This mark is a guarantee of quality and purity. Additionally, sterling silver items may also be marked with the manufacturer's name or logo.
Caring for Sterling Silver
To keep your sterling silver items looking their best, it's important to properly care for them. Avoid exposing sterling silver to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as this can cause tarnishing. Regular cleaning with a silver polishing cloth can help maintain the metal's shine.
Sterling Silver and Markings..
Sterling silver is a popular choice for jewellery due to its beauty and durability. However, not all sterling silver pieces are marked with a stamp indicating their silver content. So, when is sterling silver not marked with a stamp?
Antique Pieces
One common reason for unmarked sterling silver is that the piece is an antique. Older sterling silver items may not have been required to be stamped with a hallmark in the past. This can make it challenging to determine the silver content of these pieces without testing.
Small Items
Unmarked sterling silver is that the item is small or delicate. Some jewellery pieces, especially those with intricate designs or limited space, may not have room for a stamp. In these cases, the silver content may need to be verified through other means.
Custom Pieces
Custom-made sterling silver items may also lack a stamp. When a piece is specially designed or crafted by a jeweller, they may forego the hallmark to maintain the aesthetic of the piece. In these instances, it's important to work with a reputable jeweller to verify the silver content.
Foreign Pieces
Sterling silver items from other countries may not always be marked with the same stamps as those from the United States. Different countries have their own hallmarking systems, so it's essential to understand the markings specific to the region where the piece was made.
Unmarked Sterling Silver
While unmarked sterling silver can present challenges in determining its authenticity and silver content, there are ways to verify the quality of the piece. Working with a trusted jeweller or using testing methods can help ensure that you are getting a genuine sterling silver item.
