Lifestyle

Guide to Buy Sterling Silver

Q: What is Sterling Silver?

A: Sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of other metals, usually copper. Silver jewelry marked with a 925 is sterling silver jewelry that has been certified to contain 92.5% silver content. Sterling silver is harder than silver and is more suitable for jewelry making. The silver alloy is favored by jewelers for workability and durability.

Q: Is sterling silver jewelry good quality?

A: Sterling silver jewelry is a high-quality choice consisting of 92.5% silver content - which makes it popular amongst jewelry collectors and designers alike. Sterling silver jewelry sets purchased from a reputable jeweler or jewelry brand is durable, timeless metal, and when cared for properly, can last a lifetime.

Q: Is sterling silver jewelry regulated in the United States?

A: The silver content of 92.5% used in sterling silver jewelry is regulated by U.S. code and must be marked by a 925 stamp. Usually, this stamp can be found on a sterling piece in a place that is not visible when wearing, so look under clasps, inside rings, or inconspicuous edges. Do not assume that jewelry sold as "silver" is sterling silver as often the term will be used to describe flash-plated silver over cheap brass.

Q: Can sterling silver be worn every day?

A: Absolutely! Sterling silver jewelry is actually best worn every day as the frequent use will prevent the buildup of tarnish and dust on the metal. Precious metals like silver and gold do best when worn regularly, so feel free to add sterling silver to your jewelry collection with the confidence that it is durable and when properly cared for, will look great today, tomorrow, and 10 years from now!

Q: Is real silver a better choice than sterling silver for my jewelry collection?

A: First of all, let's address the fact that sterling silver is 92.5% "real silver" and is a silver alloy mixed with 7.5% other metals (usually copper). The use of pure precious metals in jewelry making is actually very rare as the metals are too soft when not combined with others to form an alloy. So sterling silver jewelry is actually a much better choice for jewelry making and building a jewelry collection.

Q: Why is sterling silver so expensive?

A: The precious metal content (92.5%) in sterling silver makes it more expensive than flash-plated jewelry by default. People who buy sterling silver do so because of the value of the metal in it and its inherent beauty and relative affordability. While more expensive metals like gold and platinum provide durability and are a good investment as well, sterling silver is the most affordable choice for heirloom quality jewelry that can be passed from one generation to the next. As time passes, sterling silver continues to hold and increase in value making it a great metal choice for building a jewelry collection.