All About Sterling Silver
Understanding Sterling Silver: Quality, Composition, and Our Jewelry Collection at Sunlight Silver Jewelry
Pure silver is often too soft and malleable to be suitable for making jewelry, so copper or other metals are combined with it to add strength and durability to the silver. 925 Sterling Silver is a silver alloy made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. The term "sterling" originated in 12th-century England, referring to the highest quality of silver coins used as currency. Eventually, the term came to be associated with the 92.5% silver standard used in jewelry making in the United States and throughout world markets. Most pieces of sterling silver jewelry are stamped with "925" to indicate the purity of the silver.
Here at Sunlight Silver Jewelry, you will find a wide variety of sterling silver jewelry from hoops , to stacking rings , to gemstone earrings accented with sterling silver, to bracelets , and beautiful necklaces made from and embellished with sterling silver.
Sterling Silver through the Ages
The history of sterling silver in jewelry making dates back centuries. Here's a brief overview:
Ancient Civilizations : Civilizations such as the Greeks, Romans, and Egyptians crafted intricate jewelry pieces from sterling silver.
Middle Ages : In Europe, sterling silver became popular during the Middle Ages. It was often used to create religious items, tableware, and jewelry for the nobility and clergy.
Colonial America : Sterling silver was commonly used in Colonial America for making coins, tableware, and jewelry. Silversmiths in the colonies produced exquisite pieces of sterling silver jewelry, often incorporating intricate designs and gemstones.
Industrial Revolution : The Industrial Revolution brought advancements in silver production techniques, making sterling silver more affordable and accessible to a wider range of people. This led to its increased popularity in jewelry making.
Modern Times : Today, sterling silver remains a popular choice for jewelry makers and consumers alike. Its affordability, durability, and lustrous appearance make it a desirable metal for a wide range of jewelry styles and designs.
Overall, the history of sterling silver in jewelry making is rich and varied, spanning continents and centuries, and continues to be a cherished metal in the world of jewelry.
Understanding Tarnish: How to Protect Your Sterling Silver Jewelry
Sterling silver does not rust, but all sterling silver can tarnish. Tarnish is a natural process that happens when silver reacts with products that contain sulfur. This can be from compounds in the air or on the skin. When silver is exposed to sulfur, it discolors and then darkens as it reacts with the gas to form a surface layer of brown or black tarnish. Sulfur is found in the air, in beauty products (it's great for the skin) and even in some foods!
While it is difficult to completely eliminate tarnish, there are things you can do to prevent tarnish on your sterling silver jewelry to help it last for many years to come.
- Store it in a sealed location such as the ziplock bag we ship our jewelry in, or in a jewelry box.
- Avoid contact with beauty products such as face wash, moisturizers, perfumes, hairsprays, etc. as they can accelerate the tarnish process. If you wear your silver hoop earrings in the shower, be sure to rinsed rotate them under running water after coming in contact with any soaps.
- Wear your jewelry frequently. Regular wear can help because the natural oils from your skin serve as a barrier against tarnish.
- Clean your sterling silver jewelry regularly. (See below for cleaning instructions.) Regular cleaning can remove built up dirt and oils that may contribute to tarnish.
Quick Polishing Tips for Your Everyday Sterling Silver Pieces
Sterling silver pieces you use or wear daily, shouldn't require much cleaning. If it does need more polishing, a quick rub with a silver polishing cloth should do the trick. We include a soft, lint-free polishing cloth with all orders over $20.
Restoring Shine: Deep Cleaning Tips for Tarnished Silver Jewelry
If your silver has lots of tarnish and needs more of an intense cleaning, here are a few methods to try.
These can be done on sterling silver jewelry that DOES NOT contain gemstones:
- Baking soda and water: Create a paste by mixing baking soda and water until you have a thick consistency. Apply the paste to your jewelry with a soft cloth and rub gently. Rinse with water and dry with a clean cloth.
- White vinegar and baking soda: Mix a ½ cup of white vinegar and 2 tablespoons of baking soda in a bowl. Drop your silver jewelry into the solution, let it sit for 2-3 hours, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth.
To clean your sterling silver jewelry that DOES include gemstones:
- Immerse the pieces in a little warm water with a drop of dish soap. Gently rub the silver with a soft sponge or soft bristled toothbrush. Rinse and dry with a soft, lint free cloth.
NOTE: Avoid using paper towels or tissues to dry your jewelry as they can scratch the surface. Use a soft, lint-free cloth instead.
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