There are many different types of jewellery but one form that has always been popular is silver jewellery. It matches perfectly with many different precious stones and silver is the base for plating such as Rose Gold, Gold and Rhodium. Here we look at just about everything you need to know related to silver jewellery.
Pure Silver or 925 Silver/Sterling Silver
Just as there are different types of the grade of gold, the same applies to silver used for jewellery. When considering buying silver jewellery you should bear in mind that it would be marked 925 silver/sterling silver.
Pure silver as the name suggests is made up of 99.9% silver and this is the highest purity. It is often used with other metals, as it is too soft to be used on its own in jewellery.
Sterling silver has a purity of 92.5% and is an alloy that is created after copper has been added to pure silver. It is more durable for use in silver jewellery but it can be prone to tarnishing.
Sterling silver jewellery is often plated and there are many different types of plating. For example, silver is often plated with gold, rose gold or rhodium.
Rose gold or gold plating enhances the look of the jewellery without the cost that typically comes with real gold jewellery. Plating is often used on silver jewellery to help reduce tarnishing associated with silver.
Affordable
The reason why silver jewellery is so popular is that it is generally more affordable than precious metals such as gold, rose gold and platinum. This is of course because gold and platinum is more valuable than silver. Rarity also has to be considered.
Silver Jewellery Combined With Semi-precious Stone
While silver jewellery on its own is popular, even more popular, is jewellery from silver that has been combined with semi-precious stones.
Silver jewellery can really shine and look stunning when combined with the beauty of turquoise. Silver and Turquoise jewellery is a great addition to a jewellery collection for wearing during the summer months as the brilliant blue/green colour reminds you of a tropical ocean and the silver, silvery white sand.
Another popular semi-precious stone used alongside silver is amethyst, Black Onyx, Cubic Zirconia and pearl silver jewellery are also very popular choices.
Silver Jewellery Perfect for Gifts
As silver is so popular for jewellery making, there are huge choices for those buying silver jewellery as gifts or when treating yourself.
Silver earrings are among the most popular of jewellery types given as gifts. Necklaces with semi-precious stones are also popular as are matching sets. Rings make a great choice as a gift to someone very close. Thanks to the huge range of silver jewellery available, there is jewellery for all price tags and for all occasions.
Cleaning and Caring For Silver Jewellery
Silver jewellery will eventually tarnish and need cleaning as the silver reacts with the chemicals that are in the air. However, it is very easy to bring your jewellery back and make it shine again.
If the jewellery is badly tarnished silver dip can be purchased and used but do not leave the jewellery in too long and do not use if the jewellery has stones in it. If the jewellery is not tarnished, a detergent that is phosphate free and cloth that is not abrasive can be used to clean. There is also special jewellery cloths that can be purchased to clean jewellery.
Storing your silver jewellery in a jewellery box when not in use will help to keep it dust and tarnish free.
