Silver is one of the most popular and well-loved metals for jewelry making. However, it is also one of the most faked and misused metals. Silver exudes classic and understated elegance, yet it’s also affordable. Although pure silver jewelry is rare because of its inherent softness, it still comes in various alloys and types. Therefore, it is something that people interested in silver jewelry should know.
Silver alloys and their differences
Many people think pure silver is the best type of silver for silver jewelry, which some people refer to as fine silver. However, using pure silver for jewelry is not appropriate because it is too soft and easy to damage, break, or bend. These properties are detrimental to using pure silver for jewelry. Thus, silver is mixed with other metals to form different alloys so that silver can be used for silver jewelry. Adding other metals to pure silver gives the metal enough durability and hardness to last for many years.
Quality marks
Like gold and other precious metals, silver often has quality marks. These are tiny marks that can only be seen through magnification. The size of the branding is a deliberate way not to affect the appearance of the metal. These marks are vital to guarantee the metal’s quality and its property.
Types of silver used in jewelry
Not many people know that several types of silver are available for jewelry making. Some of them are quite known, while some are not so popular.
- Fine silver- It has a .999 mark, which means it is pure silver and precious. However, it is not often used for jewelry. The metal has a glasslike luster compared to other silver alloys. But it can look grayer and duller – very soft too. Pure silver is hypoallergenic as it does not have other metals mixed with it. It does not tarnish, and it is more pliant. You can fuse fine silver without any soldering. Fine silver is commonly used for necklaces and earrings that are not likely to be knocked about or blemished.
- Sterling silver- The most common type of silver for jewelry is sterling silver, which is 92.5 percent pure. The balance of 7.5 percent is usually copper or nickel. Adding another metal to the silver increases its durability and hardness, making it fitter for bracelets and rings. In addition, nickel or copper adds a brighter silver color to the metal and enhances its shine. However, since the alloy is still predominantly silver, it is still soft and prone to dents and scratches. Likewise, copper causes sterling silver to tarnish because of oxidation.
- Argentium silver- It is fast becoming the preferred silver alloy among modern buyers. It is of higher quality and commands a higher price. The silver content is likewise higher—either 93.2 percent or 96 percent pure, while the rest is made up of germanium and copper. Germanium makes the silver more durable, rigid, easier to maintain, and more tarnish-resistant. Aside from the significantly higher price, Argentium silver is a branded alloy with a flying unicorn mark. Renowned jewelry designers use Argentium silver for more creative jewelry pieces that will show off the beauty of the metal.
Coin silver- In the past, coin silver was the most popular silver alloy in the United States. Coin silver consists of silver and copper or nickel mix. The value is lower than sterling silver, as it is only 90 percent silver. This particular silver alloy is made by melting silver coins. Coin silver tarnishes quickly due to the lower amount of silver, although it is more durable and harder.- Bali, Thai, or Mexican silver- These are silver alloys that the U.S. import from Bali, Mexico, or Thailand. Most of these metals are highly sought after because of their very high quality. Make sure to look for the quality stamp or mark to determine the quality of the silver. Manufacturers and jewelers in the U.S. are required by law to stamp their jewelry pieces with quality designations.
There are several more types of silver used in silver jewelry. The most important thing buyers should look for is the stamp which indicates its quality. Do not hesitate to ask the jeweler about the type of silver used on the jewelry that interests you.
