a label that says ‘999’ denotes jewelry that’s 99
Pure silver is a soft
metal, forci usatimes.cc ng manufacturers to add alloys to strengthen it. Otherwise known as
sterling silver, it usually contains other metals such as copper or zinc.
In general, sterling
silver is 92.5% silver, which is why you’ll notice ‘925’ on the jewelry pieces.
This means the re
usanews.cc maining 7.5% of the jewelry must contain another metal.
Additionally, sterling can be above 92.5%, but the amount cannot fall below the
threshold.
You may see other
labels, such as ‘800’, indicating the jewelry is 80% silver. You’ll normally
see the 800-label attached to silverware.
The label ‘500’ shows
the piece comprises 50% silver. The 500 alternative is a good choice for the
budget-
news minded consumer. However, be wary of disreputable merchants who may try
to market 500 jewelry as something higher.
- Note: Sterling-plated jewelry is misleading. This is
jewelry containing plated silver. Designed to look fancier,
sterling-plated jewelry is usually costume jewelry.
On the other hand, a
label that says ‘999’ denotes jewelry that’s 99.9% silver. Since pure silver is
softer, it’s prone to scratches and damage.
However, pure silver
doesn’t tarnish when you expose it to moisture or air. Conversely, sterling
silver jewelry is prone to tarnishing due to the other metallic compositions
contained within.
To maintain sterling
jewelry, polish it regularly. Moreover, you can repair or replace the
sterling variety more easily than the pure option.
The Rare Find of Pure
Jewelry
Since most jewelers
infuse other metals into silver jewelry to make it stronger, pure silver is a
rare find on the market.
With that, there are
exceptions. For instance, you’ll find undiluted silver in intricate pieces.
Further, loose bracelets, chains, and collars normally contain pure silver.
Despite the pureness
level, sterling jewelry and fine jewelry aren’t too far apart when it comes to
pricing. Many prefer sterling because it’s more manageable, and it includes
some of the latest designs.
Sterling Silver
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