Hey there! Are you a jewelry lover? If yes, then you must have heard about the ever-so-popular sterling silver! It’s a widely used material for making all kinds of jewelry because it’s accessible, affordable, and looks fabulous. Did you know that sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper or other metals? This blend of metals gives silver its strength and durability, which makes it perfect for creating intricate designs and patterns that last. But is it cheaper than silver? And how to maintain it? Let’s talk about these questions in this article.
Is Sterling Silver Cheaper Than Silver?
Sterling silver and silver are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are not the same thing. Sterling silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, while silver is a pure metal that is 99.9% silver. In terms of price, the cost of sterling silver can vary depending on the market and the demand for it, but generally, it is cheaper than silver. But why?
- Lower cost of production
One of the main reasons why it is cheaper than silver is that it is an alloy, meaning that it is made up of a combination of metals. The other metals that are added to silver to make sterling silver, such as copper, nickel, or zinc, are less expensive than silver. This makes the production cost of sterling silver lower than that of silver, which translates into a lower price for consumers.
- The demand for silver
Another factor that makes it cheaper than silver is the demand for each metal. Silver is a highly valued and sought-after metal, both for its industrial and decorative uses. Its demand and value have been on the rise in recent years due to the growth of industries such as electronics and renewable energy. As a result, the price of silver has also increased, making it more expensive than sterling silver.
But don’t worry, just because sterling silver is cheaper doesn’t mean it’s any less beautiful!
Why is Sterling silver better than silver?
One of the great things about sterling silver is its versatility. It’s a lot easier to mold into different shapes and designs than other types of metals, which means there are more jewelry options available in sterling silver.
It is a popular choice for jewelry makers and consumers because of its affordability and durability.
The addition of other metals to silver gives it more strength and makes it resistant to tarnishing, which is a common issue with pure silver. This makes sterling silver an ideal choice for everyday wear and for those on a budget.
Now, you might be thinking, “Well, why isn’t silver as expensive as gold or platinum?” Good question! The demand for silver isn’t as high as it used to be since the end of the silver standard. But don’t let that fool you – there’s still plenty of silver to go around, which means it’s a more affordable precious metal compared to others.
A study published in the Journal of Cultural Heritage examined the use of sterling silver in art conservation. The study concluded that it is a stable and durable material that can withstand environmental factors and is therefore a good choice for the conservation of silver objects.
How to Maintain Sterling Silver For a Long Time?
Sterling silver is an amazing precious metal that everyone loves because it has this beautiful shine and it’s super trendy. People use it for all sorts of things, from jewelry to fancy flatware to other decorative items. The only thing is, it can get tarnished over time if you don’t take good care of it. But don’t worry! In this section, we’re going to give you some awesome tips on how to keep your jewelry looking gorgeous for a really long time. So let’s get into it, shall we?
Store Properly
One of the easiest ways to keep your sterling silver looking like a million bucks is to store it properly. When you’re not wearing your silver jewelry or using your silverware, keep it in a cool, dry place, like a jewelry box or a silver storage bag. Trust me, this little step will totally help prevent tarnish from creeping up and ruining the beautiful shine of your silver.
Keep Sterling Silver Clean
Regular cleaning is also essential for maintaining sterling silver and let the shine persist. You can clean your silver using a soft cloth and a mild detergent solution. Whatever you do, don’t use any abrasive cleaners because that can scratch the surface and that would be a big bummer. If your silver has become tarnished, you can use a silver polish to remove the tarnish. Be sure to follow the instructions on the polish carefully, as some can be harsh and damage your silver if used incorrectly.
Use Your Sterling Silver
Another important tip for maintaining sterling silver is to use it regularly. That’s right, silver that just sits around doing nothing can develop tarnish more quickly than silver that gets used regularly and exposed to the air. So don’t let your silver jewelry gather dust in the drawer – wear it out and show it off! And don’t save your fancy silverware just for special occasions – use it every chance you get to keep it looking absolutely fabulous.
Avoid Exposure to Chemicals
Chemicals can be very damaging to sterling silver, so it’s important to avoid exposing your silver to harsh chemicals like chlorine and bleach. Keep your silver far away when going for a dip or cleaning your home. When in doubt, take off your silver jewelry and stash it in a safe spot.
Oh, and another thing – don’t go spraying perfumes, lotions, or hairspray directly on your silver jewelry either. That’s a big no-no ’cause those products can mess up the surface of the metal. So be gentle with your silver, okay?
Get Professional Help When Needed
Listen up, if your sterling silver jewelry or flatware is looking super tarnished or damaged, it might be time to call in the big guns. A jeweler or silver specialist can clean and repair your silver to restore its original beauty and shine. Be sure to choose a reputable professional with experience working with sterling silver to ensure that your silver is handled properly. So go ahead and give your silver the TLC it deserves and let a pro work their magic.
In conclusion, sterling silver is a valuable and beautiful metal that can last for many years if it is properly maintained. By storing it properly, cleaning it regularly, using it often, avoiding exposure to chemicals, and seeking professional help when needed, you can keep your jewelry looking its best for a long time to come.
Find your new favorite!
Are you thinking of adding sterling silver to your collection? Have a look at the most beautiful and elegant pieces at Thaya Jewels made from 925 sterling silver. Here are some suggestions for you!
This piece has a compelling concept, a little unnamed flower which survives the wind and rain in the small corner, and still has a small stubbornness until it greets the sun, the flowers bloom gorgeously and dress up the scenery in the corner. Inspired by small unnamed flower clusters, with white, yellow, green, and other colors embellishing them, the jewelry is a perfect pick for sunflower lovers!
Waiting to add the shimmer to your look, the small windmill and the tulip are asymmetrically shaped, and the windmill shimmers in gradual colors as the wind shakes, as if encountering this romantic scene and free fragrance with you.
These earrings paired with your smile will definitely shower you with compliments!
In conclusion, choosing sterling silver over other types of silver is a wise decision, as it offers a balance between affordability and quality. While it may not be as expensive as pure silver, it still possesses many of its desirable qualities, such as luster, durability, and versatility. By taking proper care of your sterling silver jewelry, such as storing it properly and cleaning it regularly, you can ensure that it remains in excellent condition for many years to come.
Whether you’re looking for an affordable alternative to pure silver or just love the unique look of sterling silver, it’s a great choice that can be enjoyed for a lifetime. So, what are you waiting for? It’s time you level up your selection!
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