Sterling Silver Jewelry: Classic But Unpretentious

Regardless of your age or gender, sterling silver jewelry's classic appeal never goes out of style. Sterling silver jewelry offers a precious metal at an affordable price, and comes in so many designs that you can collect pieces to go with every style and budget. Use sterling silver jewelry to define your style. For women, go casual with a turquoise ring set in sterling silver, along with a complementary necklace and earrings.

For work, dress up your career wear with sterling silver bracelets and relatively plain earrings, or go with a classic sterling silver watch. Transition to evening with a sterling silver hairpin or adornment, and add sparkle with diamond earrings set in sterling silver. Remember, sterling silver jewelry goes with any skin tone, and is appropriate for any occasion. Teens go for the bangle and the bling, so sterling silver jewelry in the form of bracelets, waist chains, and stackable rings are a sure hit. Retro sterling silver jewelry styles are the rage for rings - both finger and toe - and band bracelets - both for the wrist and the ankle.

Men are increasingly turning to sterling silver jewelry as a means of self-expression. Whether incorporated into a watch or belt buckle, ear stud or key ring, sterling silver is a classic that never goes out of style. Caring for Sterling Silver Jewelry To preserve the beauty of your sterling silver jewelry, follow these steps:

* Exposure to the air causes silver to tarnish, so keep your sterling silver jewelry in a bag made from tarnish-proof cloth, or in airtight container.

* Avoid allowing your sterling silver jewelry to have prolonged contact with wood, as some woods contain acids that can dull the finish.

* Alcohol, acetone, bleach, ammonia, and turpentine can damage sterling silver jewelry, so be sure to remove your rings and other sterling silver jewelry before using these products.

* Regularly wipe down your sterling silver jewelry with a 100% cotton cloth, using a lengthwise, rather than circular motion.

* Remove light tarnish with a silver cloth, available at mass merchandisers and from jewelers.

* To remove heavy tarnish, use a liquid or paste silver polish and rinse with warm water. Make sure to dry it thoroughly before storing it in its cloth or airtight bag. Did You Know?

* Sterling silver is a metal alloy, typically containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper.

* Sterling silver jewelry is usually marked with the word, "Sterling," or ".925."

* Fine silver (at least 99.9% pure silver) is too soft to use for jewelry.

* Mexican silver is usually more pure than sterling silver, with 95% silver and 5% copper.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Visit this Jewelry Website and Majon's Jewelry directory.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Robertson

Sterling Silver Jewelry - Must-Know Facts

By Krissy Klien

Silver and Sterling Silver
Silver is among the three archetypal valuable metals, the other two being gold and platinum. It has even been used as legal tender money in the olden days. The content of silver in pure silver is 99.9%, which makes it too elastic and acquiescent. Silver has been widely used for making jewelry. But for jewelry making the pure form of silver is not suitable as it is quite malleable. Thus sterling silver came into being. Sterling silver is an assortment of silver and copper, in a fixed percentage ratio of 92.5:7.5. Copper provides it solidity, sturdiness and even provides resistance against tarnish. The term 'sterling silver' has its origin around 13th century in England. But this form of silver gained its popularity and demand in the 19th and 20th centuries.

Use of Silver in Jewelry Making
Since age old times, silver has always remained a favorite with jewelers. Jewelry made of sterling silver is gaining popularity these days as it is long-lasting and even pocket friendly when compared to jewelry made out of gold or platinum. Jewelry made out of sterling silver is refined and is available in intricate and up-to-minute designs. The addition of copper makes it compatible to all twists and turns. The addition of copper to silver makes the jewelry more durable and adds to its sheen and helps in reducing the rate of smudge. Since pre-historic times, the silver has been perfectly blended with jewels and beads in making silver rings or silver bracelets. Sterling silver provided relief from the age old use of only gold jewelry which at times is to flashy. This jewelry can match all types of skin colors, thus making every woman attractive.

Use of silver wire in making jewelry
With the ever changing fashion industry the demand for new form of jewelry has popped up. Silver wire is an amazing form, which is being excessively used to silhouette designer pieces. Sterling silver is a pricey form of silver wire. Depending on the wire gauze, working of sterling silver wire can be either easy to work amid or can be rigid. While giving the shape, the pure form of silver wire is used as it is easily malleable and ductile. Wire which is silver plated is a substitute for the silver wire, and the base used is generally copper. The silver plated wire also needs to be coated to protect them from ruination. With the succession of twist, wraps and spirals and insertion of crystals and gems, the special pieces of jewelry are being designed. Exquisite styles and designs of silver rings, silver chains, silver bracelets, silver pendants and silver earrings all are available. Its marvelous glitter makes it pleasing to eyes and is available at pocket friendly prices.

Steps to take care of jewelry
With the increasing demand of sterling silver jewelry, the need to take care of it even arises. The following steps should be kept in mind to retain your favorite silver rings, silver bracelets and silver pendants:

- Only soft cloth and mild washing agents should be used to clean the jewelry.
- If the piece of jewelry contains some gems or stones the soapy solution is only recommended as harsh soap solutions can harm the jewelry's cement used to fix it up.
- Toothpaste can be used to get back the lost sheen of the jewelry.
- The silver jewelry is open to corrosion when wore in water and air, so it is advisable to remove the jewelry while doing household and kitchen work.

Krissy Klien is a self proclaimed "badass biker babe." As head of product selection for Badass Jewelry, she loves looking good on her Harley and that includes wearing some bling. Badass Jewelry carries and incredibly stunning line of silver skull rings and other wicked styles! Also checkout there badass silver Skull Jewelry. Stand out with BadassJewelry.com!

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Sterling Silver Jewelry: The Standard For Quality, Reliability and Beauty

By Angela Davis

Sterling silver jewelry comes in various forms such as bracelets and chains including sterling silver figaro, curb, ropes, box, and snake, charms, lockets, earrings, rings, omegas, pendants and slides. Sterling silver jewelry also includes silver rings, earrings, charm bracelets, ear cuffs, sterling silver belly chains, thumb rings, and more.

Sterling silver jewelry is always made of silver which is 92.5% pure, it is composed of 925 parts of pure silver and 75 parts alloy, usually copper. Sterling silver jewelry always has the stamp of sterling silver on it, accompanied at times with the name of the designer or jewelry manufacturer. The word "sterling" is the most respected in the jewelry business today. Since pure silver by itself is too soft, another metal such as copper is added to it, to give the silver its added stiffness and other qualities. The resulting mixture which results is composed of 925 parts pure silver in every 1000 -- this proportion never varies -- it is fixed by law. This is referred to as sterling and is often incorrectly called or referred to as solid silver.

The sterling silver jewelry is made from this sterling silver, which is a white and highly reflective precious metal. It is of superior quality, which reflects in its look and feel. Although less durable than stainless steel and other precious metals, sterling silver is often employed in watches that coordinate or look like sterling jewelry. A protective coating may be added to prevent tarnish. Sterling silver jewelry is not very cheap, yet is also not beyond reach. It has a very distinctive look and can be easily distinguished. There is no mistaking the high reflective shine of this jewelry, which is one of its characteristics trade marks.

It adds a sophisticated charm to your personality. Sterling silver jewelry has a very stylish look and lends an incredible elegance to your entire look. The inedible stamp of quality along with the chic sophistication makes it a wonderful must have product. It is a very versatile ornament which crosses all barriers of age, cast, creed etc. It can be worn by anyone whether young or old.

Some care has to be taken of any sterling silver jewelry that you own. This jewelry does tarnish with time. To clean the sterling silver jewelry use a polishing cloth or sprinkle a fair amount of dry baking powder on a soft cloth and hold it in the palm of your hand. Rub carefully to avoid scratching stones or glass components. When done, shake the powder off.

Sterling silver jewelry has a unique air of class, sophistication and style surrounding it. It is a wonderful thing to own and also to gift to people who matter. It says a lot about your personality and taste. Wearing sterling silver jewelry can immediately enhance your over-all persona. It is available for both men and women being one of those essential pieces of jewelry which you must have in your collection.

Its versatile look allows it to be used on many occasions and the feel as well as texture is quite fashionable as well as glamorous.

Looking for information about Jewelry? Go to: http://www.merryjewelry.com 'Merry Jewelry' is published by Angela Davis - The Complete Jewelry Resource Directory Check out more Jewelry articles at: http://www.merryjewelry.com/archive

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Sterling Silver: The Practical and the Beautiful

Why is “sterling” silver special? Sterling silver is the finest balance between the practical and the beautiful. Let’s say you had a water pitcher filled to the brim. If it were made of 99.9% pure fine silver, the handle would probably bend as you were serving your guests and make for a messy dinner party. Silver is a soft metal and must be reinforced to make it functional. Silver jewelry can also suffer unintended alterations if the metal is not strong enough to avoid bending.

Instead of using pure silver, the metal is mixed with an alloy that adds strength to the metal. Most often copper is used. Other additives are occasionally used that claim to reduce tarnishing. Germanium, zinc and platinum are occasionally used as alloys. This is the basis for the sterling silver standard. The sterling standard is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metal or metals. This can also be expressed as the minimum millesimal fineness of 925.

Sterling silver is the silver grade most often used for jewelry and household accessories. To qualify a piece of silver as sterling, look for one of the following marks:

• sterling

• sterling silver

• ster

• .925

In many countries, a sterling silver object that is to be sold commercially must be stamped by an Assay office after testing for purity. This is required of other metal objects as well. In the United Kingdom, the Hallmarking Act of 1973 made it illegal to describe anything as made of platinum, gold or silver unless it had the appropriate Hallmark stamp. This was an historic reference because the first Assay office in the United Kingdom was Goldsmiths’ Hall, which was founded in the year 1300. This is where the term “Hallmarking” comes from. The objects were marked in Goldsmiths’ Hall.

There are a number of other established silver standards based on a variety of applications. Besides fine silver (99.9% pure) and sterling silver (92.5% pure), there is Mexican silver (95% pure). Mexico is the only remaining country using silver in its circulating coinage. However, they reserve the 95% pure standard for jewelry and art objects and use sterling silver for coins.

Coin silver in the United States is dictated by the Federal Trade Commission and is currently 90% silver and 10% copper. The original coin silver standard was established in the United States in the 1820s. However, the use and applications for coins is evolving now that electronic commerce is growing more popular.

History and culture have provided many other standards for silver. In the 12th century there were five German towns that called themselves the Easterling and formed what was know as the Hanseatic League. The league participated in commerce with England. They used their local currency in doing business and it happened to be 92.5% pure silver. The English were most impressed with the coins of the Easterling due to their quality and durability. Eventually, King Henry II of England brought silver refiners from the Easterling to England and by the year 1158, “Tealby Pennies” became standard sterling silver currency.

Beyond currency, the rise in popularity of sterling silver was perpetuated by flatware and jewelry. In the United States and Europe between about 1840 and 1940, proper society set stringent standards for table setting. This perpetuated a number of silver companies. Each company produced a wide variety of intricate patterns that were truly fine art and design. After World War II, labor costs and more convenient alternatives caused the decline of sterling flatware.

Have you ever polished silver? It must be done regularly to remove tarnish. Did you ever wonder what causes the tarnish to dull your grandparent’s heirloom silver? It is not the silver that causes the problem. Silver does not chemically react with water or oxygen. It is the alloy that oxidizes and causes the black silver sulfide (Ag2S)/tarnish to form on the silver. Two products commonly used to remove it are Twinkle Cream and Wright’s Silver Cream. Even though this can be labor intensive, the beauty of polished silver flatware gleaming in elegance on a formal dinning room table provides a truly artistic dining experience.

Today, the artistic use of silver is popularly employed in jewelry. Every thing from beaded jewelry to jewelry charms is made of sterling or purer grades of silver. Soldiers returning from World War II brought charms and pendants back to family and friends. The use of silver dates back to ancient Egypt when it was used symbolically as it still is today to celebrate everything from wedding anniversaries, birthdays, faith and religious expressions. It is often combined with precious and semi-precious gems to enhance jewelry design, beauty and elegance in some of the finest jewelry of our time as well as the joy of everyday decoration and expression. As an example, the following website combines sterling silver beads and findings with semi-precious gemstones:
Fine tiger eye and sterling silver jewelry.

Sterling silver is a practical and beautiful tool to help you celebrate your life.

Author Biography

Janet K. Nelson has done research and written articles on subjects that range from the cultural to the technical. She is an author noted for integrating information and providing a fresh, clear and whole-picture perspective on her subjects. She has written articles, manuals and perspectives for marketing, cultural, media and distribution organizations. She has a Masters Degree in Business Administration. More information is available via http://www.tigereyejewels.com and marketmaiden@comcast.net.

Sterling Silver Jewelry Earrings

By Kilian Allen

Earrings have always fascinated both men and women as simple accessories. Made in sterling silver they have become a habit for some. Pure silver, which is known as fine silver is very soft in its original form and thus is not preferred in the jewelery industry. This is primarily because it is unable to go through the crafting process without scratches and in most cases cannot take the weight of the gemstones cast in them. Therefore, the best option for silver jewelery is sterling silver, which is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals.
Sterling silver earrings are a favorite amongst almost every woman. These are available in varied sizes and go with almost, every attire. Even if the earring is a western design, it does go well with any ethnic garment. These earrings can be crafted as studs, hoops or danglers. Sterling silver earrings are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be any shape or size, from tiny little squares that give a discrete glimmer, to large dangling ones which are very popular. Other shapes include of heart shaped earrings, disc shaped earrings and oblong shaped earrings. Indian sterling silver earrings are usually treated to give an oxidized finish. This is preferred as it gives the earring an ethnic and rustic look which is preferred by Indian women. Many women worldwide prefer the larger and chunkier earrings that are adorned with gemstones as it goes well with traditional dresses. These earrings maybe big in size, but they are not too heavy for the ear lobe. Most commonly these earrings contain stones such as moonstone, pearls, and amethyst.
To gift a piece of jewelry, sterling silver jewelry is one of the best choices. Apart from the Indian chunky earrings, there are smaller dainty ones that are crafted into various shapes. These shapes include that of dolphins, varied hearts, cross, birds, moon, stars, the zodiac signs. By the end of the day, it is all about preference and personality of the wearer. It adds a grand finale to a confident personality at an intimate evening. A complete casual look with shiny silver earrings is also appreciable. All kinds of latest and popular designs are made of the finest silver. Even cubic zirconia, exotic wood or seashells are used to make lovely trinkets. Sterling silver, at times, looks more appealing than platinum or even gold.

Sterling Silver Earrings - As the most highly recognized and respected brand in the entire silver jewelry industry, our buying power and quality of product is second to none.

Sterling Silver Jewelry Fashion Trends for the New Year and Beyond

By Sam Serio

Each year, on fashion runways from New York to Paris, Milan, and Toyko, sterling silver is "new again" as designers interpret it in new and exciting ways. What makes sterling silver a fashion perennial? The answer is clear: when it comes to beauty, versatility, durability, and affordability, sterling silver jewelry is unsurpassed.

In the hands of talented artists and designers, sterling silver is constantly "reinvented" to suit the evolving tastes of the women who wear it. But whether as a ring, a necklace, or bracelet, standing alone or presented in combination with gemstones and other precious metals…sterling silver is always in fashion.

Here's a look at what's "hot" this year:

Peace of Silver

In 2004, many Oscar presenters and recipients wore gracefully and simply designed "Dove of Peace." pin. Embraced by such Hollywood luminaries as Meryl Streep, Susan Sarandon, Drew Barrymore, and Leonardo DiCaprio, it has also been seen on the Dali Lama and Nobel Peace Laureates Oscar Aria Sanchez, Betty Williams, Mairead Corrigan Maguire, and former UN Assistant Secretary-General Gillian Sorrensom.

Now non-celebrities may purchase the pin in sterling silver pin to demonstrate both their commitment to peace and their fashion sense. The 2005 sterling silver interpretation was designed by award-winning American jewelry artist Henry Dunay to resonate the energy of Picasso's "Dove Of Peace."

Silver Screen

With the enormous popularity of the "Lord of the Rings" series, it comes as no surprise that designers have created jewelry based on the elaborately crafted pieces in the films. Based on the actual pendant worn in the Lord of the Rings film, the Arwen Evenstar Pendant is crafted in sterling silver and comes in a wooden gift box. Measuring 2-1/2 inches in length with a 18" sterling silver chain and a Swarovski crystal stone, each piece is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, adding long-term value to its other charms.

Works Like A Charm

Charm bracelets are both wonderfully retro and extremely cutting edge. Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Avril Levigne, Hilary Duff, and other high-visibility high-fashion celebrities are wrapping their wrists in silver bracelets with the hip L.A. brand "Eldorado Club."

The "Girlie Charm Bracelet" is adorned with charming femme-friendly charms including a cat, a cocktail glass, and a kitty.

Sterling Silver - Always In Style for Your 25th Anniversary
No matter what list you consult -- traditional, modern or the now popular "ultra-modern" (which includes items like clocks and appliances) -- silver is the 21st Century gift of choice for a 25th wedding anniversary. Whether it's silver's durability, its strength, its flexibility or its unparalleled beauty, sterling silver is an exquisite memento of 25 years of loving commitment between a couple.

Topping the list of this year's "What's Hot" in silver wedding anniversary gifts, women say they want charm bracelets, hoop earrings, and hair ornaments. For wives who would like to present their husbands with sterling silver tokens, the "top of the charts" picks are cufflinks, tie clips, money clips, neck chains, and I.D. bracelets.

But #1 for him AND her -- a classic sterling silver Tiffany keyring.

For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick-up your FREE copy of “How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped-Off.” This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at http://www.morninglightjewelry.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_Serio

Sterling Silver Jewelry Fashion Trends for the New Year and Beyond

By Sam Serio

Each year, on fashion runways from New York to Paris, Milan, and Toyko, sterling silver is "new again" as designers interpret it in new and exciting ways. What makes sterling silver a fashion perennial? The answer is clear: when it comes to beauty, versatility, durability, and affordability, sterling silver jewelry is unsurpassed.

In the hands of talented artists and designers, sterling silver is constantly "reinvented" to suit the evolving tastes of the women who wear it. But whether as a ring, a necklace, or bracelet, standing alone or presented in combination with gemstones and other precious metals…sterling silver is always in fashion.

Here's a look at what's "hot" this year:

Peace of Silver

In 2004, many Oscar presenters and recipients wore gracefully and simply designed "Dove of Peace." pin. Embraced by such Hollywood luminaries as Meryl Streep, Susan Sarandon, Drew Barrymore, and Leonardo DiCaprio, it has also been seen on the Dali Lama and Nobel Peace Laureates Oscar Aria Sanchez, Betty Williams, Mairead Corrigan Maguire, and former UN Assistant Secretary-General Gillian Sorrensom.

Now non-celebrities may purchase the pin in sterling silver pin to demonstrate both their commitment to peace and their fashion sense. The 2005 sterling silver interpretation was designed by award-winning American jewelry artist Henry Dunay to resonate the energy of Picasso's "Dove Of Peace."

Silver Screen

With the enormous popularity of the "Lord of the Rings" series, it comes as no surprise that designers have created jewelry based on the elaborately crafted pieces in the films. Based on the actual pendant worn in the Lord of the Rings film, the Arwen Evenstar Pendant is crafted in sterling silver and comes in a wooden gift box. Measuring 2-1/2 inches in length with a 18" sterling silver chain and a Swarovski crystal stone, each piece is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, adding long-term value to its other charms.

Works Like A Charm

Charm bracelets are both wonderfully retro and extremely cutting edge. Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Avril Levigne, Hilary Duff, and other high-visibility high-fashion celebrities are wrapping their wrists in silver bracelets with the hip L.A. brand "Eldorado Club."

The "Girlie Charm Bracelet" is adorned with charming femme-friendly charms including a cat, a cocktail glass, and a kitty.

Sterling Silver - Always In Style for Your 25th Anniversary
No matter what list you consult -- traditional, modern or the now popular "ultra-modern" (which includes items like clocks and appliances) -- silver is the 21st Century gift of choice for a 25th wedding anniversary. Whether it's silver's durability, its strength, its flexibility or its unparalleled beauty, sterling silver is an exquisite memento of 25 years of loving commitment between a couple.

Topping the list of this year's "What's Hot" in silver wedding anniversary gifts, women say they want charm bracelets, hoop earrings, and hair ornaments. For wives who would like to present their husbands with sterling silver tokens, the "top of the charts" picks are cufflinks, tie clips, money clips, neck chains, and I.D. bracelets.

But #1 for him AND her -- a classic sterling silver Tiffany keyring.

For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick-up your FREE copy of “How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped-Off.” This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at http://www.morninglightjewelry.com

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Sam_Serio

Sterling Silver Basics

By Roy Dietelzieg

Sterling silver is coming back to fashion, as many jewelry shoppers know, this affordable jewelry is making a comeback on the expense of the more traditional gold jewelry.

If you are not familiar with sterling silver jewelry you should know that it has been around for a long time, the main problem is that sterling silver is not as robust as gold and does not survive time as well as gold. Sterling silver jewelry is for the “now” and it is certainly making its appearance well noticed by all.

Modern times call for a lighter and elegant metal to compliment the darker colors used today by the fashion industry, the sterling silver accompanies these tones fantastically and is also one of the more affordable metals on the market.

It is well known that silver is the most common of all the precious metals, sterling silver is perfect for use in the jewelry industry because it is strong enough to work with.

One issue with the sterling silver is cleaning, sterling silver is durable and has a great shining potential, but it needs cleaning, experienced sterling silver jewelry have learn to differentiate between a daily, regular cleaning and a more through professional cleaning. In accordance with today’s lifestyle sterling silver jewelry is for people on the go, and it needs to be maintained and worn in a certain way, because of its tendency to get dirty it is recommended to apply make up before putting on your jewelry, but these small and petty precaution steps are nothing compared to the glamour of a unique designed sterling silver jewelry.

Sterling silver jewelry is made of a combination of silver and copper, most of the metal used is of course the sterling silver. The differences between the metals have made sterling silver cost much less than gold and therefore be a direct competitor for shoppers hearts, while the older generation usually prefers the traditional gold, young people and fashion savvy shoppers have a tendency to go for the sterling silver and enjoy a lower price for a stunning sterling jewelry.

When shopping for sterling silver jewelry be advised that sometimes it is referred to as just Sterling or “.925”,because of its relative friendliness sterling silver can be processed and designed in many ways, allowing shoppers to enjoy an abundance of sterling silver jewelry, rings, earrings, bracelets and many more kinds of jewelry are produced by all jewelers around the world to comply with the growing demand of the public to the sterling silver jewelry.

Do not be deterred by the need to clean the sterling silver jewelry, it is like most other metals and at its best when cleaned and maintained well, but sterling silver jewelry will keep shining as long as you take good care of it.

Sterling silver jewelry is becoming the sensible choice to those of us who do not want to spend a lot of money on jewelry and still want to be fashionably updated gaining a lot of popularity because of its features, enjoy sterling silver

Understanding Jewelry is not something for everyone, find Sterling Silver Jewelry Information and tips at http://sterlingsilverjewelry.zupatips.com from http://www.ZupaTips.com

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Sterling Silver - The "Other" Precious Metal

By Antigone Arthur

Learn More About This Affordable Alternative to Expensive Jewelry

History of Sterling Silver

Silver jewelry has been a staple in the lives of mankind since humans discovered the versatility of silver and the many uses it has. Silver has been used for functional and aesthetic purposes. In times of old, silver was used to create flatware and armor to protect soldiers on their way into battle. Silver jewelry was later created and used by Phoenician and Egyptian citizens desiring attractive and convenient pieces to add to their jewelry collections. Over time silver has been used to create flatware, decorative art, coins, dental fillings, jewelry and more.

Silver is produced in many different areas, though the highest concentrations of silver output come from Mexico and Peru.

One of the reasons sterling silver jewelry is so popular is its affordability and versatility. Sterling silver can be crafted into many different jewelry items including charms, rings and chains. Silver jewelry is often mistaken for other more precious metals including white gold and platinum.

Common Types of Silver

There are many different types of silver that can be used to create sterling silver jewelry. Silver is considered one of the precious metals along with its cousins gold, platinum and titanium.

Fine Silver - this is silver in its most natural state, when it is considered 99% pure. Often this type of silver is too soft to create ordinary products and is almost liquid in form. Usually silver has to be mixed with other metal alloys in order to create jewelry and household wear.

Sterling Silver - sterling is a mixture of fine silver and other metal alloys. The silver is considered about 92.5% pure. Sterling is usually combined with approximately 7.5% copper to make the jewelry more long lasting and durable. Sterling silver jewelry is usually marked on the inside with a "925", indicative of its purity. Sterling silver jewelry made of just the right combination of silver and metal allows a jeweler to create a long lasting, durable piece that is shiny and brilliant enough to be mistaken for more expensive precious metals. Sterling silver is more likely to tarnish over time because of the presence of copper; however this relatively mild side effect can be minimized through proper care. By consistently cleaning your silver jewelry you'll never even notice anything other than a beautiful shine and luster.

Silver Plating - plating occurs when a base metal such as nickel is covered with a layer of pure silver. This is often one of the most durable forms of silver, and is usually much less expensive than sterling silver because the percentage of pure silver in the jewelry is quite low. Most base metals need a re-coat of pure silver every few years to maintain a shiny outer coat and to prevent the base metal from peaking through the coating.

Nickel Silver - nickel silver is a combination of nickel, copper and zinc that is not actually silver, but resembles silver. It is an inexpensive and popular item that can be used to create look-alike jewelry.

Vermeil - this form of silver was popular in the eighteenth century. Silver is plated in gold, providing a polished and expensive looking custom piece of jewelry.

Caring for Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver jewelry does have a tendency to scratch more often than other metals, and may tarnish over time. Proper care can ensure however that the jewelry remains shiny and well kept. The following tips will ensure that your sterling silver lasts a long time and maintains its luster and original appearance:

Sterling silver jewelry should be stored in a cool dry place to reduce environmental damage.
Consider keeping each piece in an individual cloth pouch to prevent scratching.
Use a jewelry cleaner or polishing solution at least once a month to clean the surface of silver jewelry to help maintain its luster.
Use a soft cloth to clean silver; never use a toothbrush or other abrasive material that might result in scratching.
Clean silver at the first signs of tarnishing, when a yellowish tint appears on the jewelry. If you wait until the silver has turned black, you'll have to scrub harder and may damage the shine on the jewelry.
Consider using chemical dipping agents which clean jewelry without scrubbing.
Avoid cleaners that contain ammonia which can also turn silver jewelry black, consider soapy water instead.
Sterling silver is a popular item in part because it is more reflective than many precious metals. Proper care will ensure that silver jewelry remains beautiful for years to come. If you have other items in the house made of silver, such as silver wear or other household items, always use a cleaner or dip specifically designed to clean silver metal. Never put these items in a dishwasher, because you will scratch the surface and cause irreparable damage.

Purchasing Silver

When buying silver jewelry, you should be prepared to take your time to select quality pieces, just as you would if selecting a more expensive jewelry item. Young consumers are often attracted to sterling silver jewelry because it is so affordable and beautiful. Sterling silver also comes in many contemporary and modern designs which are appealing to young consumers.

So what should you look for when shopping? First and foremost always check the interior for the 925 mark, to ensure that you are purchasing premium sterling silver rather than sterling silver plating. Keep in mind that the more pure the silver, the more soft and likely that a piece will scratch, so don't go for anything more pure than sterling silver.

If you are looking to buy many different pieces, you might consider buying wholesale silver jewelry online. By doing so you'll be able to buy in bulk, and acquire large amounts of silver jewelry at inexpensive prices. Many jewelers and home business owners get into the habit of buying wholesale silver jewelry online because they can re-sell the merchandise at a higher price. There are hundreds of pieces to choose from, and you might even find a collection with a certain theme that appeals to you or the people you might be selling to.

Whey buying for yourself you should ensure you know what size jewelry you need if buying a ring. You might consider buying complete sets that include ring, bracelet and charm. Sets are very popular options for consumers purchasing sterling silver jewelry.

Silver is an exceptional choice for consumers looking for fine jewelry that is precious, attractive and inexpensive. From the dawn of time, mankind has invested in silver for practical and aesthetic purposes. If you haven't already, I highly recommend investing in a little silver.

About The Author:

Antigone Arthur is a successful freelance writer with 10 years of professional experience providing consumers with informative articles on such topics as silver necklaces, sterling silver charms, and engagement rings.

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Sterling Silver Jewelry -- Classic Simplicity

By Sam Serio

Sterling silver jewelry is synonymous with class and style in the world of fashion. Its versatility and flexibility make it a welcome and useful addition to any person’s wardrobe. Sterling silver jewelry epitomizes classic simplicity in itself, but as the setting for gemstones or combined with other precious metals, the aesthetic value it lends to the wearer is inestimable.

Pure silver by itself is too soft and would not be practical for jewelry and other ornamental objects. Sterling silver is made when another metal, such as copper, is added to the silver to make it hardy and tough. So while it is not as sturdy as stainless steel, sterling silver jewelry is nonetheless very durable and long-lasting. That is why a wide array of rings, necklaces, bracelets, cuff links, belt buckles, body jewelry and more are made from sterling silver.

All sterling silver jewelry is marked as such, and sometimes the name of the designer or manufacturer is engraved on the piece. It is a highly reflective precious metal whose simple yet elegant look is appreciated by both the young and old, the famous and not-so-famous. Some celebrities adorned with sterling silver jewelry on television or in magazines include actresses Gwyneth Paltrow and Kristin Davis, musician Sheryl Crow, and hotel heiress and budding thespian Paris Hilton.

Certain maintenance measures need to be taken to care for sterling silver jewelry. To prevent unsightly tarnishing, it should be washed with water and a mild detergent after it is worn, and since it is softer than some other precious metals, abrasion and shock to the piece should be prevented to avoid scratching or marring its surface. In the event that tarnishing does occur, sterling silver jewelry can be polished to restore it to its former sheen.

Whether your dress of choice be casual jeans, practical office attire or a slinky, little black dress for a night out on the town, sterling silver jewelry is the perfect accessory. It adapts easily to all fashion trends without sacrificing the wearer’s personal sense of style. Its allure remains undiminished as it continues to evoke the idea of simple luxury.

Sam Serio is an Internet Marketer, musician and a writer on the subject of jewelry and gemstones. For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick up your FREE copy of “How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped Off.” This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at http://www.morninglightjewelry.com

How to Buy Wholesale Sterling Silver Jewelry at Last Year's Prices

By Suneva.

Over the past several years there has been a huge demand for quality, wholesale sterling silver jewelry products. This demand for silver has put the pressure on the prices, which have doubled over the last year, sending retailer jewelers scrambling, trying to hold their costs down so that they can attract new customers as well as retain their current clientele.

Finding quality, selection and price all from one source can be a challenge. The best way to manage your wholesale sterling silver jewelry purchasing budget is to deal with a supplier who do the forethought to purchase a large stock before the prices went through the roof and are willing to pass the savings on to you. A large, well established company has this advantage over its smaller competitors and it is worth your while to create a business relationship with them. In the best case, they will not only provide your business with outstanding sterling silver jewelry that is affordable to you and your customers, but will also provide some technical support and marketing advice as well.

One reason why you will find this level of service is because the competition within the wholesale sterling silver jewelry market is just as steep as it is in the retail sector. This works to your advantage in your search for the pricing that best suits your budget. Research wholesale sterling silver jewelry vendors online, so you can review the current fashion trends, discover who is buying and what price point is most reasonable.

If you choose to create a re-sell account with online wholesale sterling silver jewelry vendors, make sure that you get all the facts before hand, for some of these online sources have a higher minimum order than if you were to purchase from their physical location. In order to find a vendor with a back stock of sterling silver jewelry, you need to look to how many years of operational experience in the real-world they have behind them, ideally, an online presence is an extension of the company, make sure that the company is not just an online operation.

You will find most of the better wholesale sterling silver jewelry vendors take the time to participate and showcase their goods in the large jewelry shows that make yearly visits to the major cities. At these events, you will have the opportunity to meet and talk with designers, manufacturers as well as wholesalers. What you see at these shows can give you a better idea of the types of sterling silver jewelry that will appeal the most to your customer base.

Best of all, many of the exhibitors use these events to offer special items for your inventory at great savings. You will be able to browse hundreds of wholesale sterling silver jewelry distributors at once, making it easier to compare price points and select your inventory within a short period of time all at one location.

Suneva is a part-time copywriter for Sam’s One that specializes in sterling silver hip hop jewelry wholesale.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Suneva.

Six Common Questions About Sterling Silver Jewelry

By Greg Peterson

Sterling silver jewelry has been a popular commodity for thousands of years. One of the obvious reasons is the affordability over other precious metals gold and platinum. The large variety of sterling silver jewelry requires certain knowledge in order to choose the right piece and also keep it in good condition as long as possible. The followings are the most common questions concerning sterling silver jewelry.

How do I clean sterling silver jewelry?

It depends. Usually, it is sufficient to use a jewelry cloth (with two layers of cloths in different colors) that you can get from a jewelry accessory store. Don’t use any hard object to clean sterling silver jewelry; even paper towel could scratch the surface. You should rub any dirt off using a jewelry cloth, not fingernails. Silver-dip is another commonly used sterling silver jewelry cleaner, which can also be obtained from jewelry store. The entire silver jewelry is immerged in the solution for half a minute to a minute and then rinsed with water. Make sure the silver jewelry is not plated with any other metal before using the silver-dip or the plating will be damaged.

Where do I store sterling silver jewelry?

It is very important to store sterling silver jewelry properly when it is not used. The ideal place to store sterling silver jewelry is cool and away from sunlight. Heat and light will turn a silver jewelry yellow and cause it to tarnish quickly. Even indoor light source like florescent lights or light bulbs turn the color of silver jewelry over time. If you expect not to wear a certain piece for a long time, put it in a air-tight bag and store it in a drawer.

What types of silver jewelry plating are there?

Unlike gold and platinum, however, pure silver is rather unstable and oxides rather quickly. Therefore, silver jewelry is usually plated with another metal to protect it from tarnishing. There are two kinds of plating for silver jewelry: nickel and rhodium plating. Nickel plating has a more whitish look and rhodium plating has a darker look. Rhodium is used to plate white gold and platinum jewelry and is much more expensive than nickel, and it give better protection to the silver underneath. On the other hand, some silver jewelry is not plated. For instance, high polished sterling silver jewelry does not have any plating and the surface is polished by machine to render shininess. Also, “oxidized silver” jewelry is oxidized on purpose to give a dark antique look and is not plated with any other metals.

How do I know the purity of my silver jewelry?

The purity of sterling silver refers to 92.5% of silver in the alloy. In order to confirm the purity, the metal itself has to be sent to a laboratory to be tested. However, most of the sterling silver jewelry produced nowadays has a “925” stamp to indicate the authenticity of the jewelry. Although there are cases where stamps are forged and the metal is either not silver or the purity is not as stated, they are very rare.

How about engraving and resizing?

Engraving and resizing of sterling silver rings is rather simple due to the ductility and relatively low melting point. However, make sure your jeweler understands the process of refinishing the ring and that they possess the necessary equipment to do so. Not all jewelers have the equipment to recoat the rhodium plating after cutting and welding the ring. Also, rings set with stones are sometimes not resizable because resizing might cause the stones to pop out. Such settings include channel and invisible settings.

Can I wear sterling silver jewelry if I am allergic to nickel?

Yes, just make sure the jewelry is pure sterling silver, not plated with nickel. Even Rhodium plated sterling silver jewelry sometimes contains a nickel layer between the silver and the rhodium to act as an adhesive. Hence, buy only high polished sterling silver jewelry if you are allergic to nickel.

Greg Peterson got his MBA from MIT business school and is now working as marketing manager for jewelry businesses featuring wholesale sterling silver jewelry and wholesale hip hop jewelry.

http://www.samsoneinc.com

Caring for Sterling Silver Jewelry

By Jack Shafer

Sterling silver jewelry is always made of silver that is 92.5% pure. It is composed of 925 parts of pure silver and 75 parts alloy, usually copper. Sterling silver jewelry always has the stamp of sterling silver on it, accompanied at times with the name of the designer or jewelry manufacturer. The word "sterling" is the most respected in the jewelry business today. Since pure silver by itself is too soft, another metal such as copper is added to it, to give the silver its added stiffness and other qualities. The resulting mixture is composed of 925 parts pure silver in every 1000. This proportion never varies. It is fixed by law. This is referred to as sterling and is often incorrectly called solid silver.

Sterling silver jewelry is made from this sterling silver, which is a white and highly reflective precious metal. It is of superior quality, which reflects in its look and feel. Although less durable than stainless steel and other precious metals, sterling silver is often employed in watches that coordinate or look like sterling jewelry. A protective coating may be added to prevent tarnish. Sterling silver jewelry is not very cheap, yet is also not beyond reach. It has a very distinctive look and can be easily distinguished. There is no mistaking the high reflective shine of this jewelry, which is one of its trademarks.

It adds a sophisticated charm to your personality. Sterling silver jewelry is very stylish and lends an incredible elegance to your entire look. The inedible stamp of quality along with the chic sophistication makes it a wonderful “must have” product. It is a very versatile ornament that crosses all barriers of age, cast, creed etc. It can be worn by anyone whether young or old. Some care has to be taken with any sterling silver jewelry that you own. This jewelry does tarnish with time. Tarnish on silver starts out as a yellowish tinge and is most easily removed at this stage. Silver tarnish progresses to a blackish purple coating becoming much more difficult to remove. Prolonged, unprotected storage is generally when tarnish occurs.

Usually, tarnish will not appear on jewelry that is worn on a regular basis. The gentle friction from wearing and the contact of oils on the skin will likely keep your jewelry bright and sparkling. Note though that taking certain medications can cause changes in skin acidity and may cause jewelry tarnishing.

To exercise good silver care, keep your jewelry free of tarnish by frequent cleaning. A simple diluted solution of mild dishwashing liquid and water can clean your silver jewelry. You can make your own cleaner by putting 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of salt in an aluminum pan - make sure it?s aluminum, that?s what makes this work - add hot water, mix it up and drop in your tarnished silver. A "magical" chemical removes the tarnish. Then, rinse and wipe dry.The presence of moisture will promote tarnish so, If possible, store your jewelry in a zip-loc plastic bag with anti-tarnish paper.

Light tarnish or oxidation film can be removed with silver polishing cloths. You may find them at supermarkets, hardware stores or jewelry shops. Heavy tarnishing will require commercially available polishing creams, or dip liquids. Use care with these, limiting the exposure of gemstones to silver cleaners as they may contain chemicals that can harm certain gemstones. Always rinse and dry jewelry thoroughly. I've found that using a hairdryer works very well to insure removal of moisture. Use a soft cloth to make sure no residual cleaner remains.

Note: Cream and dip liquid polishes will most likely remove tarnish and oxidation from your jewelry. They will also most certainly remove any decorative oxidation designs and patinas as well. Therefore, it's best to keep these items free of tarnish through proper storage and the use of cleaning cloths. BUT avoid cleaning your sterling silver with tissue. Believe it or not, tissue can scratch your silver.

Avoid jewelry contact with abrasive soaps, chemicals, perfumes, hair sprays, dyes, etc. Remove your jewelry while washing, bathing, doing dishes, household chores or cleaning with chemicals. Silver is a relatively soft metal and can scratch, so don?t scrub with abrasive cloths or cleansers. Remove your jewelry before doing strenuous activities, exercise, sports, swimming (both ocean saltwater or chlorinated pools), to prevent scratching, denting or loss of gemstones. Remove jewelry before going to bed to avoid kinking or breakage.

Sterling silver jewelry has a unique air of class, sophistication and style surrounding it. It is a wonderful thing to own and also to give to people who matter. It says a lot about your personality and taste. Wearing sterling silver jewelry can immediately enhance your over-all persona. It is available for both men and women being one of those essential pieces of jewelry that you must have in your collection. Its versatile look allows it to be used for many occasions, and the feel and texture is quite fashionable, as well as glamorous. By knowing some of silver's characteristics and taking a little extra care, your silver jewelry can give you a lifetime of enjoyment.

Jack Shafer is the webmaster and co-owner of J&M Jewelry Designs. If you're looking for a special bauble for your mother, sister, that favorite aunt, girls jewelry, or if you just want to splurge on yourself... J&M Jewelry Designs has the perfect gift that one can cherish forever! We also have a large selection of Sterling Silver Awareness Jewelry that is a thoughtful gift, and is perfect to mark important milestones, or just to show you care. One more thing... We add new and custom-designed Sterling Silver jewelry to our online store almost every day! So be sure to check back often, because you never know when you just might find that perfect piece of sterling silver jewelry you've been looking for!

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jack_Shafer