Types of Silver Used in Fine Jewelry

TL;DR: Understanding Types of Silver Used in Fine Jewelry

• Fine Silver (Pure Silver, 999 Silver): Highest purity at 99.9% silver, soft and malleable, less common in everyday jewelry.
• 925 Sterling Silver: Alloy of 92.5% silver, preferred for everyday and intricate jewelry due to balance of luster and durability.
• Argentium Silver: Modern variant with up to 96% silver and germanium for enhanced tarnish resistance.
• Coin Silver: Made from coins historically, contains 90% silver, harder than fine silver.
• Silver-Plated: Affordable, thin layer of silver over base metal, not for longevity.
• Care Tips: Regular cleaning, proper storage, avoiding chemicals, and frequent wearing can maintain silver’s quality.

Silver jewelry is the go-to option for many individuals – both for everyday wear and special occasions.

With its beautiful luster and timeless appeal, silver offers a versatile and stylish way to accessorize nearly any outfit. More than just its aesthetic allure, silver provides several practical benefits that make it especially appealing to moms.

Firstly, silver is much more affordable than gold, which is ideal for parents looking to expand their jewelry collection without breaking the bank. The durability of this precious metal – especially when mixed with other metals – also means your jewelry can hold up to the wear and tear of your busy lifestyle.

If you’ve ever been curious about how silver is used in fine jewelry, you’ve come to the right place. Join us as we explore the types of silver used in jewelry and how to choose the best.

Types of Silver Used in Jewelry

Silver is used in all types of jewelry pieces, from fine silver rings to more affordable silver pieces for everyday wear. There are several types of silver that jewelers and designers commonly use.

Understanding their differences can help you find the best fit for your lifestyle:

Fine Silver

Also known as pure silver or 999 silver, this type of jewelry has been refined to contain 99.9% silver content. The remaining 0.1% are small amounts of pure minerals.

This is the highest level of purity you can find with silver jewelry. However, similar to pure gold, fine silver is softer and more malleable than other silver alloys. This makes pure silver jewelry less likely to tarnish but more susceptible to scratches, dents, and changes in shape.

Because of its softness, fine silver is less common in everyday jewelry. It’s more often used in high-end, delicate jewelry pieces that are not meant for regular wear.

925 Sterling Silver

Since pure silver is more fragile, you’re more likely to find sterling silver used for jewelry.

Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. The addition of other metals gives sterling silver jewelry enhanced durability and hardness. It still maintains the natural luster of pure silver while being hardier for crafting even intricate and detailed designs.

This balance of beauty and durability makes sterling silver the standard for most contemporary silver jewelry.

Sterling Silver vs Pure Silver

Since sterling silver and pure silver are commonly used in fine jewelry, it’s important to know the differences between the two.

Argentium Silver

There are also other types of metal alloys breaking into the silver scene.

This modern type of sterling silver contains a greater amount of pure silver (ranging from 93.5% to 96%). It is also alloyed with germanium in addition to copper. Germanium is a silvery-gray metalloid that is typically used as a semiconductor. Its addition to pure silver and copper helps create a highly tarnish-resistant metal that is still durable and bright.

Argentium silver isn’t as common, but it’s a practical choice for jewelry where longevity and low maintenance are desired.

Coin Silver

As the name suggests, this type of silver has historically been made from melted-down coins. It usually contains about 90% silver and 10% copper. This composition means it’s harder than fine silver but slightly softer than sterling silver.

Coin silverware isn’t used for modern jewelry, but a lot of antique jewelry was made from this combination.

Silver-Plated

If you’re looking for the aesthetic of silver without the higher price tag or need for longevity, plated jewelry might be a good option. Silver-plated jewelry consists of a thin layer of silver coated over another base metal, like copper, brass, or nickel.

This gives the piece the appearance of solid silver but at a much lower cost. However, the silver layer can wear away over time, exposing the base metal beneath. It’s often used for fashion jewelry and other decorative pieces that aren’t intended to last long.

Is Sterling Silver Considered Fine Jewelry?

Yes, sterling silver is considered fine jewelry.

The combination of silver and copper strikes an excellent balance between durability and the overall value of silver. This alloy ensures that the jewelry can withstand regular wear and handling while maintaining its beautiful luster and intricate detailing.

Sterling silver is durable for jewelry, yet also versatile. It is recognized for its craftsmanship and nearly endless design possibilities. It’s used for contemporary and classic jewelry pieces, ranging from high-end statement pieces to everyday charms and other accessories.

So, while sterling silver may not always carry the same prestige as gold or platinum, it is considered fine jewelry due to its quality, beauty, and the craftsmanship involved in its production.

Care and Maintenance of Silver Fine Jewelry

Proper care can ensure your fine silver jewelry remains sparkling and pristine for years to come. Here are some tips to help you preserve the quality of your precious keepsake:

1. Regular Cleaning: Gently clean your silver jewelry regularly to prevent tarnish and buildup of dirt. Use a soft, lint-free cloth to polish the pieces. For a deeper clean, Better Homes & Gardens recommends using a mild soap with warm water, and drying it thoroughly with a soft cloth.
2. Proper Storage: Store silver jewelry in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Use individual soft cloth pouches or a jewelry box with compartments to prevent scratches and reduce exposure to air, which can accelerate tarnishing.
3. Avoid Chemicals: Keep your silver jewelry away from chemicals such as chlorine, bleach, and ammonia, which can damage the surface. Remove your jewelry when cleaning or swimming to prevent any exposure. You should even consider applying perfumes or hairspray before putting on your jewelry for the same reason.
4. Wear It Often: Interestingly, wearing your silver jewelry can help keep it polished and free from tarnish due to the friction and contact with your skin.

Turn your breastfeeding memories into a personalized piece of fine breastmilk jewelry. Design your piece and order online today at KeepsakeMom.