We’ve already spent lots and lots of time discussing the different ways that silver jewelry can be utilized in one's wardrobe, but we haven't had much in the way of discussion as to what makes certain items of silver jewelry higher quality than others.
Most jewelry today is comprised of a metal alloy; this also includes sterling silver jewelry. Certain silvers carry with them a defining numerical code that gives some insight into the quality of that silver. In most cases, your sterling silver jewelry will probably carry a point value that equals the number (commonly .924). Basically, .924 simply refers to the given numeric ratio of the amount of silver versus the amount of extraneous metal in the alloy.
However, some silver jewelry is called a "fine" silver jewelry and carries with it a point code of .999. Often times, silver that carries a code of .999 is considered ‘special occasion’ jewelry. Most of the time this special occasion silver is available only through customization. All this really means is that these pieces, have been specially handcrafted and will likely only been worn on truly special occasions. Most of the time, the silver that is considered to be ‘fine’ and is used to customize jewelry will have a tendency to turn and tarnish more rapidly than will a less ‘fine’ quality of sterling silver.
If you're planning to purchase silver jewelry that carries a .999 rating, you should consider questioning your jeweler about the care that will be required for maintaining the brilliance of that particular piece of silver. In some cases, the fine piece will need to be isolated from other metals and kept solitary so as not to turn, tarnish, or become weakened by the transferring oxides.
Don't get us wrong, we are huge fans of all silver jewelry. However, if you're searching for silver jewelry that will be durable and strong enough to allow for everyday wear, we recommend a higher ratio (i.e. .924). Consider shopping online for some of the most wearable and attractive pieces of silver jewelry available. You will find that silver goes with almost any ensemble and can be worn almost any occasion. Why spend hard-earned money on a piece you'll absolutely adore if you can only wear it on special occasions? Unfortunately, not many of us get the opportunity to experience a special occasion all that often!
Saturday, January 31, 2009
Wednesday, January 14, 2009
How to protect against tarnish
Very few people know that sterling silver jewelry that is not worn regularly for any lengthy amount of time can blacken and tarnish easily. Because of this, the storage of silver jewelry is incredibly important in terms of preventing tarnish and corrosion. By adhering to a few easy steps, you will be able to save yourself endless hours cleaning and polishing as you will keep your silver jewelry beautiful, shiny, and bright for years to come.
The reason silver jewelry will tarnish is because the metal (when left unattended) will inevitably have an oxidative chemical reaction with the hydrogen sulfide in the air we breathe. The natural corrosion of the silver manifests itself as the darkening we call tarnish. As such, it’s very important that you ensure your silver jewelry is always clean and moisture-free before you put it away for storage (moisture, oil, dirt, and any other residual compounds will only accelerate the darkening of your silver).
Airtight containers are the tool of choice when selecting storage containers to house your silver jewelry. Reducing contact with air will help to slow silver corrosion. The most common household products that will serve this function are zip lock baggies (other airtight bags that have non-abrasive surfaces will also work). However, you should do your best to avoid poly-vinyl bags because they contain chemicals that aid in the promotion of tarnish. If you consider your jewelry and investment, and you find yourself willing to spend a few extra dollars, most jewelry stores offer bags and boxes that are specially designed to help prevent the darkening of silver jewelry. However, if you elect to store your jewelry using at-home techniques, be sure to store your pieces in separate bags. This will help to prevent scratching and blemishing of your jewelry’s surface.
It’s also a good idea to avoid storing jewelry in areas that are excessively humid, excessively sunny, or prone to friction. It’s also wise to avoid storing your pieces in areas that have been chemically treated. Commonly, dresser tops, counter tops that have been cleaned using regular household cleaners, and other such locations will expedite the tarnishing process.
The reason silver jewelry will tarnish is because the metal (when left unattended) will inevitably have an oxidative chemical reaction with the hydrogen sulfide in the air we breathe. The natural corrosion of the silver manifests itself as the darkening we call tarnish. As such, it’s very important that you ensure your silver jewelry is always clean and moisture-free before you put it away for storage (moisture, oil, dirt, and any other residual compounds will only accelerate the darkening of your silver).
Airtight containers are the tool of choice when selecting storage containers to house your silver jewelry. Reducing contact with air will help to slow silver corrosion. The most common household products that will serve this function are zip lock baggies (other airtight bags that have non-abrasive surfaces will also work). However, you should do your best to avoid poly-vinyl bags because they contain chemicals that aid in the promotion of tarnish. If you consider your jewelry and investment, and you find yourself willing to spend a few extra dollars, most jewelry stores offer bags and boxes that are specially designed to help prevent the darkening of silver jewelry. However, if you elect to store your jewelry using at-home techniques, be sure to store your pieces in separate bags. This will help to prevent scratching and blemishing of your jewelry’s surface.
It’s also a good idea to avoid storing jewelry in areas that are excessively humid, excessively sunny, or prone to friction. It’s also wise to avoid storing your pieces in areas that have been chemically treated. Commonly, dresser tops, counter tops that have been cleaned using regular household cleaners, and other such locations will expedite the tarnishing process.
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Silver Jewelry, the Perfect Gift
The holidays are among us and with that bring the joy of gift-giving. The only problem you are facing right now is what to get the person on your list that has everything and offers no suggestions as to what they want or need. The perfect gift is right around the corner, either on line or at our local outlet stores. Silver jewelry can be found almost anywhere and in various styles; if you cannot find the style or piece of jewelry you are searching for you can always have it designed for a minimal fee.
No more tossing and turning at night over what gift you can give that will last a lifetime and hold memories forever. With silver jewelry the possibilities are endless. You can choose from designer necklaces to bracelets, and even earrings. Why stop at purchasing silver jewelry? You can easily have the item of your choice engraved so the special occasion can be only a glimpse away. On silver jewelry you can have important dates, names, even a special comment engraved at little cost to you.
The expensive jewelry is beautiful but did you know that you can usually find the same designer necklace, ring, bracelet, or earrings in silver jewelry as well at half the cost? You can have the appearance of expensive jewelry but with affordable silver jewelry that no one will be able to tell the difference when you wear the jewelry.
Worried about getting your daughter or son that special class ring or memorable piece of jewelry for a gift? With the amount you will save on your purchase of silver jewelry you can rest easily by knowing you are not throwing away your money on a piece of jewelry that will be lost or given away. Silver jewelry is also a wonderful idea for the new baby in your life or that little girl who adores jewelry. She can wear it with pride and you can breathe easier knowing that what she is wearing is replaceable at a reasonable price.
There is no more need to stress over the perfect gift -- by giving silvery jewelry you are sure to be a hit and the favorite gift. Sit back and enjoy the endless on line sites that offer beautiful silver jewelry to be delivered to your door in a matter of days. If on line shopping is not for you, visit the numerous stores in your area and choose the perfect piece of silver jewelry.
No more tossing and turning at night over what gift you can give that will last a lifetime and hold memories forever. With silver jewelry the possibilities are endless. You can choose from designer necklaces to bracelets, and even earrings. Why stop at purchasing silver jewelry? You can easily have the item of your choice engraved so the special occasion can be only a glimpse away. On silver jewelry you can have important dates, names, even a special comment engraved at little cost to you.
The expensive jewelry is beautiful but did you know that you can usually find the same designer necklace, ring, bracelet, or earrings in silver jewelry as well at half the cost? You can have the appearance of expensive jewelry but with affordable silver jewelry that no one will be able to tell the difference when you wear the jewelry.
Worried about getting your daughter or son that special class ring or memorable piece of jewelry for a gift? With the amount you will save on your purchase of silver jewelry you can rest easily by knowing you are not throwing away your money on a piece of jewelry that will be lost or given away. Silver jewelry is also a wonderful idea for the new baby in your life or that little girl who adores jewelry. She can wear it with pride and you can breathe easier knowing that what she is wearing is replaceable at a reasonable price.
There is no more need to stress over the perfect gift -- by giving silvery jewelry you are sure to be a hit and the favorite gift. Sit back and enjoy the endless on line sites that offer beautiful silver jewelry to be delivered to your door in a matter of days. If on line shopping is not for you, visit the numerous stores in your area and choose the perfect piece of silver jewelry.
Wednesday, December 3, 2008
Create a Timeless Holiday Wardrobe with Silver Jewelry
As the holiday season approaches, you may be asking yourself, "what can I do to spice up my wardrobe this year?" The answer is simple -- add some silver jewelry to your Christmas ensemble. You will find that wearing chunky silver jewelry with any your available holiday outfits will add spice and pizzazz to your holiday festivities.
One of the most popular holiday looks this season is intricate and chunky silver jewelry paired with the classic black turtleneck. You will find that wearing striking silver jewelry with a black turtleneck is both sophisticated and dressy. Whether you do so with blue jeans, a long skirt, shorts and tights, or khakis, pairing your black turtleneck with substantial silver jewelry (think a chunky silver necklace with a large pendant) will add a level of sophistication unparalleled by anything else in your wardrobe.
If black is not your color, consider paring your substantial silver jewelry with a vibrant shade of red, dark green, olive, or the ever popular burnt orange. Eggplant purple is also another popular color this season. Each of these colors will look fantastic against any skin tone and will also make the perfect backdrop for your silver accent pieces.
If you're planning to attend a more sophisticated holiday party, consider pairing your silver jewelry with your favorite formal or semi-formal gown. The crisp and cool color of silver is perfect for the winter months, and just like the colors we discussed before, is complimentary to nearly every skin tone.
Silver jewelry will make a wonderful addition to both your wardrobe or your gift list this holiday season. You see, silver is the one precious metal that remains relatively affordable and can be easily obtained. And as we all know, the gift of fine jewelry is always well received.
If you don't have time to shop for a fine silver piece to pair with your holiday ensemble, consider purchasing your silver jewelry from an online retailer. Online retailers have access to a wide variety of selections that would otherwise go unfound. You will also find that the selection of jewelry available through online retailers is more unique than those you'll be able to find in a tangible storefront. So, if you're looking for the best way to spice up your Christmas wardrobe, instead of buying a new outfit -- simply buy some silver jewelry…and while you’re at it, buy something to make the most of your New Year’s ensemble as well!
One of the most popular holiday looks this season is intricate and chunky silver jewelry paired with the classic black turtleneck. You will find that wearing striking silver jewelry with a black turtleneck is both sophisticated and dressy. Whether you do so with blue jeans, a long skirt, shorts and tights, or khakis, pairing your black turtleneck with substantial silver jewelry (think a chunky silver necklace with a large pendant) will add a level of sophistication unparalleled by anything else in your wardrobe.
If black is not your color, consider paring your substantial silver jewelry with a vibrant shade of red, dark green, olive, or the ever popular burnt orange. Eggplant purple is also another popular color this season. Each of these colors will look fantastic against any skin tone and will also make the perfect backdrop for your silver accent pieces.
If you're planning to attend a more sophisticated holiday party, consider pairing your silver jewelry with your favorite formal or semi-formal gown. The crisp and cool color of silver is perfect for the winter months, and just like the colors we discussed before, is complimentary to nearly every skin tone.
Silver jewelry will make a wonderful addition to both your wardrobe or your gift list this holiday season. You see, silver is the one precious metal that remains relatively affordable and can be easily obtained. And as we all know, the gift of fine jewelry is always well received.
If you don't have time to shop for a fine silver piece to pair with your holiday ensemble, consider purchasing your silver jewelry from an online retailer. Online retailers have access to a wide variety of selections that would otherwise go unfound. You will also find that the selection of jewelry available through online retailers is more unique than those you'll be able to find in a tangible storefront. So, if you're looking for the best way to spice up your Christmas wardrobe, instead of buying a new outfit -- simply buy some silver jewelry…and while you’re at it, buy something to make the most of your New Year’s ensemble as well!
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
