FUN FACTS ABOUT 925 STERLING SILVER JEWELLERY
Silver has a rich history dating back 6000 years, as one of the first five metals to be discovered on the planet. From this stemmed its use in coins 2600 years agoand famously used in ‘Britannia silver standard’ silver bullion coins also. Countless other applications of silver and sterling silver span across fields such as medicine, astrology (supernova explosions), food decorations, energy sources (solar), sanitation and even Greek mythology.
Naturally, silver found its way into many jewellery collections due to its gorgeous lustre, durability and workability, but reinvented itself by combining with other metals to form sterling silver. Cue many centuries of elaborate jewellery workmanship that cover countless countries, cultures and traditions.
But what is sterling silver and why is it so versatile? What has made this alloy such a celebrated part of culture and history for so many years? Let’s find out...
Sterling silver is actually a mixture of two metals
While you may know that sterling silver is a mixture of two metals due to the fact that pure silver is too soft to mould or set, you may not know exactly what these other metals are. Sterling silver is comprised of 92.5% silver and 7.5% of base metal.
Jewellery makers usually choose between copper or nickel as the base metal/alloy. When the alloy is made with copper, this combination allows for the perfect balance of hardness, versatility and that famous shine.
Some silversmiths actually use nickel instead of copper. Nickel is known for its tendency to react with the oils on our skin, leaving behind a green ring mark and/or a nasty skin reaction due to a nickel allergy. We wrote in detail about tarnishing here if you want all the facts.
Know your alloy metals and always make sure you are buying the copper variant. At Aquila, we only ever use pure silver and copper. So, your favourite chunky hoops will never cause any skin irritation and will only ever look beautifully boho - wonderful news for those with sensitive ears.
Posted by Clare Izaguirre on April 05, 2021
On aquilajewellery.com
925 sterling silver is a highly valued material in jewelry due to its perfect blend of beauty and durability. This alloy consists of 92.5% pure silver mixed with 7.5% of a base metal, commonly copper or occasionally nickel. The addition of copper enhances the hardness and workability of the silver, making it ideal for crafting exquisite jewelry pieces that retain a brilliant sheen while standing up to everyday wear. Historically, silver has been treasured for thousands of years, not only used for decorative items but also significant in coinage, medicine, and even cultural symbolism such as in Greek mythology. The ‘Britannia silver standard’ coinage is a notable example of silver’s historical monetary importance. One critical factor when selecting sterling silver jewelry is the base metal alloy. Copper is favored because it harmonizes well with silver and is less likely to cause skin reactions. Nickel, on the other hand, may cause allergic reactions and leave greenish marks on the skin, an issue for sensitive individuals. Therefore, it is advisable to choose sterling silver jewelry alloyed with copper. Proper care of sterling silver is essential to maintain its lustrous appearance and prevent tarnishing. Tarnish occurs due to the silver reacting with sulfur compounds in the air. Regular cleaning with a soft cloth and storing jewelry in airtight containers can extend its life and keep it looking new. Beyond aesthetics, sterling silver also has antimicrobial properties, which historically contributed to its use in medical instruments and sanitation. This adds another layer to its value and versatility. By understanding the composition and history of 925 sterling silver, consumers can make informed choices and appreciate this alloy’s enduring relevance and beauty in fine jewelry collections worldwide.
