Silver Jewelry – a serious contender to Gold

 The majority of people tend to prefer gold in their jewelry, gold also being the standard by which currency is rated in most countries. However, almost as popular is silver jewelry, especially amongst the younger generation. Silver is steeped in history as a special metal and it is claimed to be used against Dracula and werewolves.

Many people prefer Silver Jewelry

Silver jewelry is preferred by many due to the silver being slightly stronger, and probably longer lasting than gold as well as it having a prominent, bright white metallic appearance. The ability to mold and bend it into virtually any shape and pure silver has the whitest color of all metals. With gold, there are many who exhibit an allergic reaction to the metal, especially in the posts of earrings while far fewer appear to suffer the reaction from silver jewelry.

The white brilliance of silver jewelry is usually 92.5 percent pure, or fine silver, with other white metals used to alloy the material as well as offer additional strength. Metals such as nickel will add to the strength without dulling the brightness, however bronze is also sometimes used to make it stronger and due to the relatively small amount used, does little to dull the shine.

Rare Stones Contrasted With Silver Jewelry

Red rubies and blue sapphires are often fitted into silver jewelry in necklaces and rings, as the brilliant color of the gems contrast with the silver. Diamonds, while frequently used as well, often appear to get lost in the brilliance of a silver setting, especially if the diamond is considered small for the setting.

Remedies to Clean Silver Jewelry

Additional cleaning efforts are required for silver jewelry as the metal naturally oxides in air and has a tendency to take on a dark color, like a golden hue eventually turning black. The higher the silver content the blacker it may appear until it is properly cleaned. Gold will appear to become dull as it is worn. It is a fact that if your silver jewelry is exposed to a humid climate, the faster the silver will tarnish. In some cases, this can happen in as little as a day!

Some tips on how to clean silver jewelry are a solution of salt, baking soda, water and dish detergent can be made in which to boil your silver jewelry. It will remove all tarnish and other discolorations from the metal. You will have to be careful that the stones on the jewelry can be subjected to this treatment or run the risk of the silver being cleaned and the stones being ruined. Probably the best method of cleaning your silver is taking it to a jewelry store and having it professionally cleaned.

If you are going to clean your silver jewelry using a sterling silver dip, be careful! Some dips can take the color and polish from many pieces with gemstones. Also, do not leave your jewelry in the dip to long as this will leave small white particles in the items when they dry and are difficult to remove. After using a dip, give the jewelry a thorough wash in clean fresh water.