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.
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