Sterling silver - what is it and how is it different from regular metal?
Sterling silver - what is it? This is the familiar 925 sterling silver. Today there are several versions of where this name came from. According to one of them, the “name” comes from the Middle Ages. In Great Britain, Henry the Eighth ordered the production of pounds sterling from 925 silver, which have been in use since the 12th century. Coins were used for people to make large transactions.
There is another version. According to it, sterling silver comes from Saxony (Germany), where they began to create a silver alloy containing no more than 8% impurities. He was used to create coins that were used by the Germans to pay the British. The English king liked the heavy coins, and he ordered them to be issued in his country. We can conclude that one version smoothly follows from the other.
! Just a few centuries ago, silver was considered a more valuable metal compared to gold. It was highly prized due to its rarity. But over time, multiple deposits of silver were found, and they learned to mix the metal with others, producing alloys of varying purity. Today the element is very popular in various industries, including for the manufacture of luxury jewelry, which can be supplemented with precious stones (the price of the product will increase).
What kind of metal is this?
What kind of metal is this? It is an alloy containing 92.5% pure silver and about 7.5% impurities (mainly copper). One of the features is the difficulty of melting metal due to the need to maintain a certain temperature and special exposure. This results in the material being very durable and of high quality; it is also distinguished by its long service life.
We recommend reading: Rhenium: price and where to find the metal?
So, 925 sterling silver is a special minting of metal, which is done so that the material does not lose quality. As a result, it is possible to achieve the reliability and strength of the alloy. As a result, 925 silver is considered one of the most sought after today. It can be used to create jewelry, as well as candlesticks, cutlery and even statues.
When purchasing Chinese sterling silver, you need to proceed carefully. Give preference exclusively to trusted sellers to avoid purchasing counterfeits. Some sellers pass off low-grade metal as high-quality material. In general, customer reviews say that on average, purchases from China are successful in 85% of cases.
Sterling silver is used to make strong and durable jewelry
The most popular is sterling silver, produced in Southeast Asia. Among the main suppliers of metal is China. The volume of supplies from this country is growing every year. Moreover, the quality is in no way inferior to silver from other countries (including from Europe), but it costs noticeably less.
Differences between sterling silver and regular silver
There are differences between sterling silver and regular silver. The main one is that sterling silver does not darken, unlike ordinary silver, which upon contact with air (due to hydrogen sulfide) becomes dull and turns black. Many buyers point out that the main disadvantage of silver products is the loss of their attractiveness over time and the need for regular cleaning.
Why doesn't sterling silver tarnish? The main reason is that there is much less copper in the alloy. As a result, the material is less susceptible to reactions with air (the influence of sulfur compounds), which leads to darkening.
Another important difference between sterling silver and regular silver is that the latter is more ductile and soft. As a result, the metal is only suitable for making jewelry. But for the manufacture of interior items, dishes and coins, only sterling silver is used.
The demand for sterling silver increases every year. Experts say that you definitely shouldn’t expect a price reduction in the near future. On average, sterling silver costs $0.8 per gram. But the price of Chinese sterling is only 0.7 dollars per gram. Moreover, the price of an ordinary one reaches approximately 0.5 dollars per gram.
Unlike regular silver, sterling silver does not darken
Now you know, sterling silver is a material that is more durable, quality and hard. This is achieved through smelting in a special way - by maintaining high temperature and special exposure throughout the entire creation time. On sale you can find jewelry, interior items, dishes, and decor made from sterling silver. All these products will serve for a long time and delight with attractiveness.
We recommend reading: Allergy to gold: symptoms and causes
From the video you can learn about Chinese sterling silver.
Source: http://inzoloto.ru/precious-metalls/sterlingovoe-serebro-chto-eto-takoe
Sterling silver: quality from ancient times
Silver has long been used as a material for making jewelry, coins and household items. There was a time when the metal was valued higher than gold due to the fact that pure silver alloy, without impurities, was very rare. One type of silver is sterling. There are two versions of its origin.
The first states that the metal was named after the pound sterling, which was the unit of account in the 12th century. Then King Henry 8 of England issued a decree according to which silver alloy coins were used to make large purchases. According to the second version, sterling silver, which contained only 8% impurities, was produced in the 11th century in the region of Osterling in Saxony.
Because of this, the metal acquired its name. Such coins were used for trade with England during the Allied actions.
What is sterling silver?
What is sterling silver and why is it so valuable? This is a 925 metal alloy, which includes 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. The metal is difficult to melt because... requires a certain temperature and special exposure. However, after processing it becomes very durable, high quality and does not lose its properties for quite a long time.
If previously only coins were minted from sterling silver, now it is actively used for making jewelry. Products made from it seem to be openwork, thin and weightless. Just one gram of raw material can be drawn into a thin and long wire up to several hundred meters. The metal has gained particular popularity in Europe, where it is called the silver standard.
It also makes beautiful cutlery and home decor items.
Why is pure metal not popular?
Unlike ordinary silver, sterling does not oxidize in air and, accordingly, does not darken so quickly. The alloy acquired this property due to the copper in its composition, which, as is known, does not react with hydrogen sulfide, which predominates in the air. In order for silver to retain its qualities, other metals, such as zinc, can be mixed with it in addition to copper. The alloy of silver with other precious metals is especially valued.
Jewelers never use pure silver. This is a very soft metal and over time any products made from it become deformed and lose their attractiveness. You need to wear such jewelry very carefully, because... Any mechanical impact may cause dents and scratches to appear on their surfaces. For example, traditional sterling silver items made in Japan are stored in special cases.
How to care for sterling silver items?
Even with its unique properties, sterling silver can tarnish and lose its luster. How to care for such jewelry so that they delight you with their beauty for a long time? Firstly, you need to store it in a dark and dry place. If it is exposed to sunlight, it will quickly darken.
Secondly, if the metal has become darkened, you need to clean it with a special tool for processing coins. You can buy it at a hardware store. It is forbidden to rub jewelry with abrasive compounds, because they will leave scratches on them. For home remedies, you can use a paste made from hydrogen peroxide, ammonia and tooth powder.
After treatment, wipe the product with a clean, dry cloth.
Source: https://1nerudnyi.ru/sterlingovoe-serebro-kachestvo-rodom-iz-drevnosti-10/
What is sterling silver?
Eleanor Brik
Since pure silver is not hard enough to make decorative items, jewelry uses an alloy with copper, impurities of germanium, zinc, platinum or titanium, which is called sterling. At the same time, the alloy retains the light color and shine inherent in natural silver, and is not inferior in hardness to platinum and gold.
People believe in the ability of silver to tell about the ailments of the person who wears the product on the body: when serious illnesses or severe stress occur, it turns black.
History of the name
Why is silver with impurities called sterling? There are three versions of the origin of the term.
In the 12th century, sterling was an old English coin made of silver. The weight of 240 of these coins was equal to 1 pound, so expensive purchases were measured in “pounds sterling.” The weight of 240 coins indicated whether they were genuine or counterfeit. A 1955 Oxford Dictionary entry states that the term "sterling" dates back to 1300. This was the popular name for the silver Norman penny, on which small stars – sterlings – were engraved.
The scientist-historian Pinchebeck argued that the term came from the combination Easterling Silver, which was the name for the German 925 silver alloy, which was distinguished by increased hardness. Over time, the phrase evolved into Sterling Silver.
The composition of sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper.
The result of numerous experiments was confirmation of the fact that copper is a suitable option for an alloy with silver, and in exactly this ratio.
Sterling silver hallmark
.925 reflects the percentage of silver in the sterling alloy. This ratio of pure silver to copper is characterized by strength, brilliance and an affordable price.
Silver ring with cubic zirconia, SL; (price on the link)
Silver of this standard is the most popular material for the production of jewelry, coins, cutlery, souvenirs, and medals.
In addition to decorative items, contacts and conductors for electrical devices are made from sterling silver.
The advantages of 925 sterling silver are obvious: strength, beauty and low cost. The only drawback of metal is its tendency to oxidize, so silver jewelry loses its luster if left on the body while cleaning, swimming in the pool, etc.
A way to solve the problem of oxidation of silver products is the rhodium plating procedure.
Products that have undergone this procedure do not oxidize and do not lose their presentation for many years.
Sterling silver from China
With the strengthening of trade ties with China, the Russian jewelry market has become filled with inexpensive Chinese silver items marked 925.
Distrustful Russians are hesitant to buy Chinese sterling silver, which is cheaper than metal from other countries. It is not recommended to dismiss this option, since in China there are conscientious manufacturers who lower the price tag due to cheap labor and automation of the alloy manufacturing process.
How to protect yourself from buying counterfeit sterling silver from China?
Buy silver jewelry at a jewelry store, not on an online site. The super-low cost of the product should alert you.
Choose products that come with a quality certificate and a return guarantee.
Caring for Sterling Silver
Since silver is susceptible to mechanical damage, you should not rub it with hard cloths or sponges: such manipulations will damage the surface of the product.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9XCbZxErG6s
Silver ring with cubic zirconia, SL; (price on the link)
To prevent silver items from losing their presentation for a long time, store them in soft cloth bags separately from each other.
A suitable option for caring for sterling silver is professional products available in the form of sprays, wipes, gels and solutions. The composition of such products, which corresponds to the needs and characteristics of silver, will carefully clean the surface of contaminants without causing harm.
If the remedies do not help, it is recommended to wipe the oxidized and blackened areas of the silver item with a cotton swab dipped in ammonia, and then polish the item with a soft, dry cloth.
If the previous advice does not help, contact a jewelry workshop. The technician will examine the product and tell you about possible cleaning options.
Despite the increased popularity of platinum, silver remains a popular and beloved precious metal among the people, which is flawless in many gems. It is durable, does not lose its luster for a long time, and the price of sterling silver makes it affordable for almost everyone.
23 November 2014, 16:58
Source: https://sunmag.me/sovety/23-11-2014-chto-takoe-sterlingovoe-serebro.html
925 Sterling Silver: What is it? From China, reviews
Online stores are full of offers for the sale of sterling silver jewelry. In photographs, the products look very attractive: the perfectly polished, shiny surfaces of the jewelry attract the eye like a magnet.
The price of the products is also quite attractive: it is significantly lower compared to jewelry made of blackened silver.
In this material, we will try to understand: what sterling silver is, how it differs from ordinary silver, how to care for jewelry made from this material, and also take an interest in reviews from customers who have already purchased sterling silver items in popular online stores.
What is 925 Sterling Silver? What are its features?
Sterling is the name of an alloy of 925 silver. Silver alloys are used to make silverware, jewelry, coinage, and more. Pure silver, 999 standard, is not suitable for these purposes: it is too soft and fragile, quickly oxidizes and loses its appearance.
To give a silver product strength, ductility, noble color and other useful properties, alloys are used - admixtures of other metals. In silver marked 925, there are 7.5% of such impurities.
The following alloying metals can be used: copper, germanium, zinc, platinum, gold and titanium. Silicon and boron are added as auxiliary elements.
The alloy of silver with cadmium is one of the most expensive (much more expensive than gold). It is used in precision instrumentation and science because it has high electrical and thermal conductivity.
Silver alloyed with germanium does not turn black over time. And in combination with aluminum it becomes too porous.
The standard metal used to alloy 925 sterling silver is copper.
Story
According to encyclopedic data, the name of the alloy was first found in the 12th century. By decree of King Henry II of England, the monetary unit pound sterling was established. It was minted from 925 silver. Thus, 240 coins were made from one pound of silver (350 g).
There are other versions of the origin of the name of the alloy: according to the compilers of the Oxford Dictionary, sterling was the common name for a Scottish small coin.
You can come across a version according to which the use of 925 sterling silver for minting coins first began in northern Germany.
The area in which the mint was located was called "Easterling". In the 12th century, it actively traded with England. Payment was made with durable, high-quality silver coins.
Interestingly, in Russia they do not make jewelry from sterling silver; it is used exclusively for cutlery.
In Japan, 925 alloy is also not common: they prefer pure silver, even despite its low strength and other disadvantages. In France you will not find 925 silver alloy. Brooches, earrings, and necklaces are marked 800.
Alloy properties
Silver alloy is highly durable and wear-resistant. It was from this that silverware was made, which was passed down from generation to generation. The alloy is resistant to corrosion and many environmental factors. The noble metal is still in demand in most countries of the world as a material for making jewelry, cutlery, candlesticks, figurines and coins.
Physical properties:
- Metal reflects about 95% of visible light rays. Due to this property, the first mirrors were made of polished silver.
- High thermal conductivity. This is why tableware is not made from silver.
- In appearance, sterling silver resembles platinum.
- Slowly oxidizes and cleans well.
- Does not have magnetic properties.
- High electrical conductivity.
Chemical properties:
- Silver reacts with hydrogen sulfide to form sulfur sulfide.
- When heated, the metal is able to adsorb oxygen and hydrogen.
- Dissolves in mercury, nitric and sulfuric acid.
- Reacts with iodine.
- Insoluble in alcohol.
Try
To perfectly mix the silver and auxiliary metals, they are heated to a temperature of 800 °C.
The fineness of the alloy is determined by the percentage of silver, regardless of the alloy. But 925 sterling silver is precisely an alloy with copper in a percentage ratio of 92.5%/7.5%.
Real sterling silver can be easily distinguished from a fake if you put two pieces side by side: the real one will look snow-white. If the metal is cleaned of oxidation, it will shine brighter than white gold.
If the product acquires a reddish tint over time, it means that it contains much more copper than is stated by the sample.
Price
The value and demand for sterling silver items have increased significantly over the past decade. The increase in value is due to a general decrease in the supply of precious metal on a planetary scale.
Cost of 1 g on the world market:
- $0.62 bullion;
- $4 as part of a piece of jewelry.
How is sterling silver different from regular silver?
It is not customary to make jewelry from pure silver due to the insufficient strength of the metal and its rapid oxidation from contact with air. Under the influence of hydrogen sulfide contained in the surrounding atmosphere, pure silver quickly oxidizes and becomes covered with a sulfide film.
By alloying silver with copper, one achieves not only an increase in the strength of products, but also an improvement in their appearance. In an alloy with copper, silver is much less susceptible to sulfides, which means oxidation and darkening.
Sputtering of a metal called rhodium allows you to protect jewelry from mechanical damage.
Rhodium-plated silver is easily distinguished by its mirror-like shining surface. The specific, unnatural appearance of rhodium-plated silver jewelry repels some buyers. In comparison, sterling jewelry has a more natural shine.
Pure silver is also not used for decorating interior items, making cutlery, or works of art. Sterling silver, on the contrary, is suitable for work of any complexity, even for the most delicate and sophisticated products.
How to Test a 925 Sterling Silver Item
- Find the rectangle with the hallmark on the product and make sure that the numbers 925 are indicated on it.
- Silver does not have magnetic properties. Test this statement by holding a magnet close to your jewelry.
- Rub the product on a piece of chalk.
The crayon has turned black, which means the silver is real.
- Apply a small amount of sulfur ointment to the surface of the product. After a few hours, the fake will change color, and the silver jewelry will only tarnish.
- Determine the authenticity of the item from a jeweler.
Sterling Silver Jewelry
Jewelers love to work with sterling silver for the following reasons: firstly, products made from this material are always relevant and in demand, and secondly, 925 sterling silver is a durable but malleable metal, which means it is easy to work with.
Metal makes jewelry that shines and lasts. Earrings, rings, chains are particularly sophisticated.
The alloy of silver and copper has a characteristic feature - it darkens when in contact with moisture and then the jewelry has to be cleaned frequently. If you choose a silver necklace, give preference to an alloy of silver with germanium or rhodium-plated silver.
How to clean sterling silver jewelry?
If the decoration has darkened slightly, wipe it with a cloth made of natural material.
A significantly oxidized product should be washed in warm water with a small amount of dishwashing detergent. Ammonia or hydrogen peroxide are suitable for cleaning the surface. After chemical cleaning, be sure to wipe the jewelry with a dry natural cloth.
To return a necklace or earrings with stones to their original appearance, contact a jewelry maker who will treat the jewelry with a special compound that does not contain phosphates.
It is not recommended to use toothpowder and toothpaste to clean silver jewelry to avoid scratching the surface.
In jewelry stores you can find a special liquid for cleaning coins, with its help you can independently restore the snow-white shine to a tarnished large item.
In order for silver jewelry to retain its appearance for a long time, it should be stored correctly. Use a separate bag for each unit. Store bags in a cool, dry place.
Sterling Silver Plated
When ordering jewelry through an online store, read the description very carefully. People who do not speak English, when they see the word “Sterling 925,” immediately assume that the supplier is offering a product made of sterling silver. But often, it is assumed that a product made of cheap metal or jewelry has only sterling coating.
Each such decoration comes with a list of prohibitive recommendations, upon seeing which you should be wary and understand that this is cheap. Products coated with sterling should not be slept in, washed with hands, or exposed to perfumes, soaps, detergents, etc.
The main sign by which a fake can be identified is its low cost.
Jewelry with stones
Chinese manufacturers, as a rule, do not use natural stones in their jewelry. In 70% of cases, you will only see artificial crystals in jewelry.
Reviews of sterling silver
Olesya: “They gave me a sterling silver ring, but for a long time, until I paid attention to the sample, I thought it was platinum! It looks very nice. I’ve been wearing it for almost 6 months – it looks great, almost doesn’t darken.”
Reviews of sterling silver from China:
Elena: “I bought earrings through an online store. They promised sterling silver. The decoration peeled off after 3 months. I don't recommend getting involved. In my opinion, it’s better to buy regular 925 silver earrings and not worry about anything.”
Vladislav: “I ordered a gift set on Aliexpress. The description indicated 925 Sterling silver, not silver plated, that is, I expected to see silver items, not plated jewelry. But the experiment ended extremely unsuccessfully. They sent me an ordinary fake, covered with something unknown.”
To summarize the above: when purchasing jewelry through online stores, we recommend that you carefully read the description and quality certificates, and take an interest in customer reviews. It is better to purchase products with precious stones from domestic or European manufacturers.
Source: https://socketmira.ru/dragocennye-kamni/sterlingovoe-serebro-925-proby.html
What is sterling silver
The name sterling is usually used for this marking as a second meaning. There are two versions of its origin.
According to the first, the name comes from the pound sterling - a coin made of 925 silver, which was distributed in England since 1158, after the decree of King Henry II. Since then, the name equivalent to “coin silver” has been assigned to this alloy.
According to the second version, silver was named after the Esterling region in Germany. This area also produced silver coins with a 92.5% pure metal content.
Sterling silver or sterling silver is a jewelry alloy based on precious pure metal - silver and a small addition of copper. silver in the alloy is 92.5%, and copper, respectively, 7.5%.
What is sterling silver? This is a white alloy. It has high strength and durability, is resistant to corrosion and the influence of external atmospheric factors. Jewelry made from sterling silver retains its original shape well.
Sterling silver is in demand when creating a variety of jewelry and products, including silverware. It is used to create collectible and investment silver coins. This precious metal is popular and in demand in many countries around the world.
What is the difference between silver and sterling
What is the difference between silver and sterling? Silver is a heavy, hard and ductile metal with a silvery-white hue. Over time, silver, under the influence of hydrogen sulfide, which may be contained in the air, becomes dull and becomes covered with a sulfide coating.
Tarnishing of precious metal is its main drawback, which is especially noticeable in the production of jewelry. The lower the copper content in the alloy, the more resistant the compound is to the effects of sulfur compounds.
Sterling silver samples are the most stable.
Pure silver is not used in the jewelry industry. Aluminum or copper is added to its composition, giving the product greater strength. To protect jewelry from tarnishing and scratches, the surface of the silver is coated with a layer of rhodium. This coating gives the product a bright white color. However, this treatment of silver is not to everyone’s taste. Many people prefer jewelry that has a natural color.
What is the difference between silver and sterling? Silver, due to its properties - ductility and softness - is not used for the manufacture of precious dishes and decorative items. The standard for the production of unique jewelry, magnificent tableware and coins is sterling silver
What is the difference between silver and sterling? Among the advantages of sterling silver is the ability to create jewelry of the finest workmanship and extraordinary beauty. Sterling silver is truly the best alloy for jewelry and ornaments.
Sterling silver hallmarks
Many people have a number of questions. What is sterling silver, what is its purity and its main distinctive properties.
Sterling silver is a high-grade precious metal. It has a long service life and the ability to oxidize slowly. 925 sterling silver is a metric hallmark that indicates that 1000 grams of the alloy consists of 925 grams of pure silver and 75 grams of copper.
Sterling silver samples melt well and are able to take the desired shape. Jewelry made from sterling silver has high hardness and resistance to the external environment.
925 silver is often referred to as sterling. Once upon a time, this word was used to refer to an old English coin made of silver. It weighed 1.46 g and featured a star on the obverse of the coin. Sterling coins were issued at the mints of the states of Normandy and Britain.
Features of storage and care of products
Having received answers to important questions: what does sterling silver mean and how does silver differ from sterling silver, we will consider the basic rules for the care and storage of products made from sterling silver.
To keep a silver item in its original form, you must follow a number of rules. Jewelry and silver items must be stored in a dry and dark place to prevent the silver from darkening when exposed to direct sunlight.
Jewelry made from sterling silver does not darken for a long time and retains its attractive appearance. However, with prolonged exposure to external negative factors, sterling silver may darken. To prevent this, you should follow the rules of care and cleaning of the product.
Mechanical cleaning is not acceptable in this case. After all, it can damage the coating and cause scratches on the surface of the product.
To clean a silver item, it is advisable to use a soft cloth that is soaked in a special liquid. It is sold in specialized stores and is most often used to clean coins. This method will get rid of dullness and darkening of sterling silver.
In case of severe contamination, you can use a solution using tooth powder, ammonia and hydrogen peroxide. After performing cleaning procedures, wipe the product with a dry soft cloth.
For professional cleaning of products, you can use the services of a jewelry salon. Here they will quickly and efficiently clean the product and give it a beautiful original appearance.
925 sterling silver from China
In the modern world, the countries of Southeast Asia are a major supplier of jewelry and decorative items made from sterling silver. The championship belongs to China. According to research, supplies of sterling silver from China are growing steadily. This is due to the high demand and popularity of jewelry. The quality of the precious metal imported from China is not inferior to the quality of silver exported from other countries.
The price of a product made of sterling silver is influenced by such an indicator as the low cost of labor in China compared to European countries. This factor significantly affects the cost of jewelry and decorations.
China is famous for its skilled jewelry craftsmen. Here, as in many countries, there are decent, conscientious sellers and manufacturers of jewelry. Many buyers purchasing sterling silver products made in China are satisfied with the quality and cost.
Before deciding to purchase products made from Chinese silver, you need to weigh and think carefully. There are Chinese sellers who seek to sell low-quality jewelry. They pass them off as being made from real, high quality sterling silver. In any country and with any purchases, you need to be careful and have a good understanding of the quality of the item you are purchasing.
Chinese silver at a low cost should alert the buyer. When purchasing jewelry through online stores, you should definitely read the comments and reviews of potential buyers. It is better to do this through social networks, having received detailed information from customers who have already purchased goods from him and managed to evaluate its quality. Remember, Chinese silver should not be cheap.
Sterling silver price
Over the past ten years, the demand for such products has increased significantly. This led to rising prices. According to analysts, this trend will continue. The increase in the price of silver is also due to a decrease in reserves of this metal on the planet.
Today, the average price of silver per gram is $0.62. The cost of jewelry and ornaments, taking into account the complexity of the work, originality and trade margins, cannot be lower than $4.0 per gram.
Sterling silver from China reviews
Customer reviews indicate that more than 80% of all jewelry of Chinese origin are of good quality. China is famous for its jewelry products, which are of high quality and have captured the hearts of many people. The filigree craftsmanship of jewelers and the vast experience of technologists are the key to creating high-quality products.
Products made from Chinese silver retain their properties for a long time. And slight blackening is easy to clean.
Source: http://lombardyinfo.ru/stati/sterlingovoe-serebro.html
Characteristics and Applications of Sterling Silver
Many people prefer silver to gold, and not only because of the affordable price: jewelry made from this white metal looks truly elegant. Cutlery is also made from silver, which is in high demand among buyers.
Despite all the advantages of metal, it is not used in its pure form for the production of products, all because of its softness and tendency to deform. For this reason, silver used in the jewelry industry is combined with other, more durable metals to form an alloy.
The most popular alloy is sterling silver. Many people wonder: what is sterling silver?
Sterling silver ring
Title and history
Sterling silver is a common alloy of silver with a purity of 925. This purity means that a kilogram of the alloy contains at least 925 grams of silver. The master alloy in this alloy is represented by copper, although previously there were attempts to add other metals to the alloy, for example, zinc, germanium, titanium, platinum and boron. But it turned out that copper is an ideal alloy, since it gives the alloy the necessary strength and wear resistance.
From the very name of the alloy one can understand that it has something to do with the British national currency - the pound sterling. Indeed, the 925 alloy has its own history. So, in the twelfth century in England there was a silver coin called “sterling”.
This monetary unit was considered very valuable, because it could be used to buy expensive household items, jewelry and other valuables. 240 silver coins had the same weight as one pound.
If such an amount of sterling had a mass less than that of one pound, then the coins were considered counterfeit.
There is also a second version of the origin of sterling silver. Thus, in the eleventh century, in Northern Germany, the minting of special silver coins was established, intended for the implementation of settlement transactions with England. This version was put forward by the historian W. Pitchebeck in 1955.
Application
Nowadays, 925 sterling silver is an ideal raw material for the production of jewelry: bracelets, chains, pendants, crosses, earrings, etc. Such products look very elegant and sophisticated, especially if decorated with precious stones. Metal with a white tint favorably emphasizes the radiance of such stones. High-grade silver is also used to make high-quality silverware and decorative items.
Sterling silver earrings, chain and pendant
Answering the question about what sterling silver is, it should be said that many buyers are now offered a Chinese analogue of this metal. At first glance, sterling silver from China cannot be distinguished from genuine silver.
But many people who have purchased jewelry made from this metal note that the products turn black over time, which makes them aesthetically unattractive. The darkening of the products is explained by the fact that in fact the jewelry does not contain a single gram of sterling silver, but is an ordinary fake.
Fraudsters who sell counterfeit precious metals offer jewelry made from it at an attractive price for the buyer. In fact, products made from Chinese silver cost much less than what fraudulent sellers ask for.
You can only buy real sterling silver in a jewelry store or salon with an impeccable reputation. Such retail outlets sell only certified goods, which must undergo an independent examination. But you should avoid buying jewelry and silverware from your own hands, since this way you can buy a fake.
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Source: https://DedPodaril.com/serebro/vidy/sterlingovoe-serebro-chto-eto-takoe.html
Sterling silver: what is it, differences from ordinary 925 silver alloy, reviews | mk-soyuz.rf
I am glad to welcome you again to our website. The topic of the current material is sterling silver: what is it, what is this variety famous for, what are its advantages, where is it used, what care does it require.
What kind of silver is this
Sterling silver is a high-grade 925 alloy that is used as a raw material to create jewelry, watch cases and cutlery. Pure silver, like gold, is a very soft and porous metal that is prone to abrasion. To improve performance characteristics, various metals are added to its composition as a ligature component.
Brief history of origin
The name itself originates from the silver penny, a coin that was minted in the northern cities of Germany under the name Easterling.
Such money was originally called Easterling Silver, which means “silver from the eastern lands.” Subsequently, the name was shortened to sterling silver and became the designation of silver for coinage.
Composition and properties
To obtain a sterling alloy with optimal properties, copper is most often added. The characteristics of the metal are excellent, but due to the tendency of copper to oxidize when exposed to oxygen, it becomes covered with a dark coating over time.
To rid sterling silver of this drawback, jewelers used various alloy additives: platinum, titanium, zinc, silicon, boron, cadmium and even germanium, which, by the way, completely eliminates the appearance of a dark coating from the alloy, but makes its cost too high.
Strength
The hardness of sterling silver is sufficient to not only create jewelry from it, but also use it for cutlery, dishes, and decorative elements. This alloy is less susceptible to deformation and more resistant to oxidative processes than other varieties, due to the high purity of the precious metal.
Samples
Sterling silver has a purity of at least 925, which guarantees that the product contains 92.5% pure noble metal and no more than 7.5% alloy additives.
There are options with a higher standard.
Manufacturing technology
Sterling silver is produced by melting pure metal at 893 °C. At this temperature, the added copper does not simply mix with the main component, but completely dissolves in it, forming a so-called solid solution.
But simply mixing the components is not enough - after melting, it is first fired to eliminate heterogeneity and increase the strength of the metal. But the resulting alloy will not have the necessary ductility, so the next stage is hardening. The procedure increases the required parameter of the substance.
The sterling alloy is then subjected to aging by heating to 300 °C, which increases its strength by 2.5 times. And finally, the resulting product is bleached, removing any slag deposits that have appeared.
How is it different from regular silver?
There is no difference. Sterling, or, as it is also called, standard silver, is a common, widespread grade.
Application of this alloy
The sterling variety is used primarily for making jewelry - it is perfect for blackening and applying decorative enamel. In color it is indistinguishable from an alloy of a higher standard and is in amazing harmony with precious stones and pearls. Look at the photo - isn't it amazing?
Exclusive cutlery and tableware are also made from sterling silver. To make standard silverware, a less pure alloy is used due to its lower cost.
Advantages and disadvantages
Its main advantages are beauty, strength and ductility. It oxidizes slightly, and products made from it are durable enough to be used daily. Sterling alloy has a bactericidal effect, does not cause irritation and does not leave marks on the skin.
But, due to its characteristics, it requires certain care and special storage conditions: sterling silver products will have to be cleaned periodically, and jewelry should be kept in a dark, dry place, since they darken when exposed to sunlight.
Products should be protected from contact with aggressive household chemicals that contain ammonia or chlorine, otherwise the item may lose its attractiveness.
Where can you buy or sell
It is better to buy products made of precious sterling metal in trusted jewelry stores. This way you will be insured not only against counterfeiting, but also against purchasing an item made of a low-quality or even harmful alloy, even if it corresponds to the declared standard.
Recently, the range of sterling silver jewelry has been expanded with items from China. They are relatively low in cost and mostly meet international quality standards, but there is a high risk of getting a fake.
You can hand over a sterling alloy product to a pawnshop or a buyer. Try posting sales information on message boards. Silver is not often counterfeited, and a jeweler can always carry out the necessary quality checks, but this will require additional costs.
How much does 1 gram of this silver cost today?
Silver is traded on the stock exchange, like gold, so its quotes change all the time. To receive up-to-date information on the price of metal, use our online chart.
The table below also contains up-to-date silver price data.
Price for 999 standard according to the Central Bank Market value of the sample for today Price for scrap Price in jewelryRecommendations for care, cleaning and storage
Store sterling silver in designated dark areas. Let it be a pouch made of a thick, opaque material, such as leather or suede, or a separate compartment in your jewelry box.
It is impossible to clean such things using mechanical force. It is better to use special compounds that can be purchased at a jewelry store, or contact the jeweler directly. Experts recommend cleaning your sterling jewelry at the first sign of oxidation.
A great way to return a shiny look to sterling items is to boil it in a soda solution. For a glass of water, a tablespoon of soda and food foil at the bottom of the container are enough. Boil for 15 minutes.
Tips for choosing silver jewelry
Vsevolod Kozlovsky6 years in the jewelry business. Knows everything about samples and can identify a fake in 12 seconds. When purchasing such a product, be sure to pay attention to the stamp. Silver jewelry, in accordance with international standards, is marked with the s925 mark. The requirements for the brand are traditional - it must be clear, legible, without merging symbols.
When buying silver on the Internet, be guided by the price - it cannot be cheaper than the market value of the metal, and also pay attention to the number and nature of reviews about the merchant, giving preference to those who have already proven themselves positively.
Reviews
Natalia:
I ordered a bracelet from China. In general, I can’t say anything bad, but it’s getting darker faster than I expected, perhaps the standard isn’t high enough.
Elizabeth:
I brought a chain and pendant from Turkey as a gift to my mother, they are very elegant, my mother has been wearing them for several years without taking them off, she cleans them at home with toothpaste, but not whitening one - it has hard particles in it, she is afraid of scratching.
Olga:
I got massive silver earrings with blackened silver from my grandmother. The product has darkened over time, but I don’t risk cleaning it for fear of ruining it. And I don’t wear them myself, I keep them as a memory.
Marina:
I almost lost my pearl set when I decided to clean it with vinegar. It’s good that my mother saw this and stopped me, otherwise I would have been left without my favorite jewelry. It turns out that pearls dissolve in vinegar! It’s a pity that manufacturers of such jewelry do not warn about this.
Conclusion
Silver products have always been and will be at the peak of popularity. You can not only wear high-quality jewelry yourself, but also pass it on to your children, because the price of silver is steadily rising. Don't forget to subscribe to our newsletter if you haven't already, and get the latest and most relevant news from our experts. Please yourself and your loved ones with beautiful things, and I will move on to the next topic.
Source: https://xn----ntbhhmr6g.xn--p1ai/dragmetallyi/chto-takoe-sterlingovoe-serebro-925-probyi-i-chem-ono-otlichaetsya-ot-obyichnogo-splava
Sterling silver - what is it?
Silver is a popular and beloved white metal by many. Its history goes back many years. Previously, silver was valued much more than gold due to its high-quality alloys. But over time, they learned to “dilute” it with various impurities or other metals, and this led to the fact that its original value was lost. Silver began to be assigned different grades.
What is sterling silver, what is its origin and why is it valuable? The production of this alloy began in the 18th century. This became possible thanks to large metal mining. More and more deposits of silver were found, and it served not only as a raw material for jewelry, but was also used as the main bargaining chip of those times.
Today there is less production of this metal. But in everyday life, sterling silver is used, which is melted down several times. Where did this name come from?
How did sterling silver come into being?
There are two versions of the origin of sterling silver. One of them tells that in the 17th century in England there was a silver coin with that name. It was used often, as it was in demand in everyday life.
This coin was used to pay for large purchases and various household items. With the help of sterling from this alloy, fraud and deception were easily detected. For example, 240 coins were equal in weight to one pound.
If there was a deviation from this norm, the sterling was accepted as a fake, lacking quality and value.
The second version belongs to Walter Pinchebeck, which he presented in 1955. According to it, in Northern Germany in the 11th century, coins were made from a certain silver alloy. During trade contacts with England, Germany used this money. Therefore, they gradually spread to other countries.
The King of England liked these coins so much for their quality and durability that over time he began to produce them on his territory. Therefore, sterling silver is a former coin alloy. It has gained trust among many buyers and jewelers. Many modern silver items are made from this valuable metal.
What does the alloy consist of?
What is hallmarked sterling silver? According to the sample, the composition is distinguished, which determines the value and quality of the object made from it. 925 sterling silver is an alloy that contains not only silver, but also additives. At this test, the alloy consists of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Making 925 sterling silver is not easy. It is necessary to observe the temperature regime and exposure, but the resulting result will please you with good quality.
In ancient times, sterling coins were valued throughout the world for their strength, durability and reliability. Today, when they hear the word “sterling,” craftsmen understand that they are looking at a valuable alloy from which they can make beautiful jewelry, cutlery, decorations, and candlesticks.
It is believed that 925 test is the most popular alloy today. Often different metals and impurities are used for ligatures. Then the sample will depend on the amount of other metal added. The following tests are distinguished:
Typically, copper, zinc, platinum, gold, palladium, aluminum, and titanium are added to sterling silver. When silver is combined with impurities, it produces a specific color and other characteristics. With additives, the alloy gains endurance and strength. The disadvantage of such additives lies in the fact that if the required proportions are not observed, the products will darken or lose their appearance due to plaque.
Usually, the alloy in which copper is present darkens and loses its original shine. When in contact with oxygen, copper is known to become covered with a dark coating. Therefore, it is better to store products in a package where moisture will not penetrate.
How to care for silver items
When sold, silver items sparkle and thereby attract buyers. If all the melting rules are followed, then the purchased item will delight you for a long time. Sterling silver stores well. But under the influence of certain factors over a long period of time, it may lose its shine. Such negative impacts include:
- sweat;
- fat;
- dirt;
- constant wearing;
- contact with chemicals.
Tarnishing can be avoided. This requires proper care and cleaning. To avoid damage and scratches to the jewelry, there is no need to clean the plaque mechanically. It is better to wipe the product with a special cloth for such things. In order to wipe off blackening, there is a liquid that is applied to a napkin. If this turns out to be ineffective, then you can try other methods.
One cleaning method is to use tooth powder. You can use ammonia or hydrogen peroxide. After treatment with these substances, it is recommended to clean the product with a soft cloth.
Source: https://gdeserebro.ru/vidy-proby/sterlingovoe-chto-eto-takoe-925-proba.html
Sterling silver: what is it, differences from ordinary 925 silver alloy, reviews
I am glad to welcome you again to our website. The topic of the current material is sterling silver: what is it, what is this variety famous for, what are its advantages, where is it used, what care does it require.
What is 925 sterling silver: origin, composition, care
Sterling silver has a characteristic white luster and resistance to mechanical stress. This is a jewelry metal from which jewelry and cutlery are made.
But not many people know why it is called that and how it differs from ordinary silver. You can often find sterling markings on jewelry. Not everyone knows what it is.
Do you want to know how to choose the right silver jewelry? Then you need to understand what 925 sterling silver is. This is a silver alloy that contains 92.5% pure silver. The remaining 7.5% comes from various additives in the form of copper, nickel or germanium. Most often, copper is added to pure silver, which gives the alloy the required hardness.
In order to make jewelry or kitchen utensils from silver, you need to achieve good strength of the metal alloy. Pure silver is a soft metal that cannot be made into jewelry.
Origin of the name
This silver alloy received its name from English coins that were minted in England since 1158 by order of King Henry II. Silver coins were called sterlings.
The word sterling itself came to the Kingdom of England from Germany. When trading with the British, German merchants paid with silver coins that were minted in the German principality of Oesterling. Such coins were called Easterling Silver, which means silver from Esterling.
Over time, this combination of words was shortened to the traditional sterling.
This silver alloy was invented by German merchants. It was used to pay off the cities of Europe that were part of the Gazea trade union in the Middle Ages. New silver coins quickly spread throughout Europe, including the Kingdom of England. There, from the 12th century, they began to mint their own coins using German technology.
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What is sterling silver made of?
To make silver more malleable and durable, various metals are added to it, thus creating sterling silver, which, in addition to minting metal coins, was used to make jewelry and silverware.
In addition to copper, various metals can be added to pure silver:
- nickel;
- germanium;
- cadmium;
- aluminum.
Depending on the type of ligature, sterling silver acquires different properties and prices. The most expensive is the alloy with cadmium. Cadmium is more expensive than gold, so jewelry made from such silver will be very expensive.
The cheaper version of the alloy with aluminum does not provide the desired metal structure. The surface of the jewelry is too porous.
The most optimal for jewelers is an alloy of silver and 925 copper. It can oxidize over time, but this can be easily eliminated by cleaning jewelry made from such silver.
How to clean sterling silver correctly?
Any piece of sterling silver jewelry has a special marking. It indicates the 925 standard, the name of the manufacturer, as well as the sterling or ster marking. This is a sign that the silver product will last a long time.
In order to properly care for such silver jewelry, you need:
- store them in special velvet bags or in a jewelry box;
- remove jewelry when cleaning or using chemical detergents;
- Regularly polish sterling silver items with special pastes that can be purchased in jewelry stores;
- promptly remove any plaque that appears on sterling silver;
- do not allow the silver to darken again.
Using these simple tips will help keep your sterling silver items looking their best.
Source: http://VseoZolote.ru/precious-metals/sterlingovoe-serebro.html
About sterling silver: what is it and how is it different from ordinary silver alloy
Silver is one of the most popular metals in the world, discovered in ancient times. Centuries ago, it was worth more than gold, as the pure silver metal alloy was prized in the market due to its rarity. But, over time, people began to dilute the substance with other impurities. Therefore, there are now a sufficient number of samples of this substance.
Where did the name “sterling silver” come from, what is it? There are the following versions of the origin of the name. According to the first, the metal was so named because of the pound of sterling, which was in use in the Middle Ages. In the mid-12th century, King Henry 8 of England issued a decree according to which a coin made of 925 silver came into use. This alloy was considered equal to ordinary silver, from which money was then made. This pound sterling was used for large purchases.
The second version states that silver, which contained only 8% impurities, was produced in the Esterling region in Saxony (Germany) since the 11th century. The name came from this subject. The coins that were issued in the northern region of the country were used to pay with England during allied actions. The then ruler of the country liked these strong coins so much that he soon put them into use. Actually, two versions of the origin of the name of the metal follow from each other.
925 sterling silver
Sterling metal is popular because it consists of 92.5% pure silver, and only 7.5% of it is copper. The alloy in question is very difficult to melt, since it requires a certain temperature and special exposure. But the metal ultimately becomes very durable, high quality, and has a long service life. In the Middle Ages, these coins were used for trade.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Uw5QB3Bn7tE
Some customers ask about what 925 sterling silver is. This is silver coinage that has been melted down so that it does not lose quality. The alloys are just as strong and reliable. Therefore, 925 metal is considered the most popular at present. This substance is used to make not only precious jewelry, but also cutlery, statues, and candlesticks.
The difference between regular silver and sterling silver
What is the difference between the silver we are used to and the one we are considering? Precious metal, due to hydrogen sulfide in the air, becomes dull. It is the loss of beauty due to tarnishing that is considered the main disadvantage of jewelry made from noble substances. But sterling silver does not have this disadvantage. The fact is that the less copper in the alloy, the less susceptible it is to the influence of sulfur compounds.
Since ordinary noble metal is soft and ductile, it is used exclusively for jewelry and is not used in the production of dishes and interior items. Therefore, all expensive silver tableware sets and coins are made of sterling metal. As you can see, it is easy to distinguish it from the usual one, if it is not a decoration.
How to store and care for the product
Basic tips for proper care of sterling silver:
- the storage location should be a dark and dry place to eliminate the risk of the sun hitting the surface of the metal (it darkens as a result);
- Although sterling silver products do not lose their visual appeal for a long time, it is not always possible to follow all the rules for storing them. If the metal is darkened, you should clean it with a soft cloth soaked in coin cleaning liquid (you can buy it at a household chemical store).
- Under no circumstances should mechanical cleaning be carried out; it will only scratch the surface of the product;
- when a special liquid does not help, you should make a solution consisting of hydrogen peroxide, ammonia and tooth powder. After the execution, it is necessary to wipe the metal with a clean, dry cloth.
Advice! If you doubt your cleaning abilities, you should contact a jewelry salon. They will professionally restore the natural appearance of the product.
Chinese sterling silver
The main suppliers of products made from sterling silver are the countries of Southeast Asia. China ranks first among them. The volume of supplies is growing every year, because the quality of the jewelry produced is in no way inferior to that of products produced in other countries.
Sterling silver from China is cheaper than its European counterparts. This is due to the fact that labor in this Asian country costs much less than in Europe.
But still, you should be careful when buying Chinese jewelry. Since some sellers pass off low-quality material as high-grade metal. When purchasing a sterling gold item online, it is worth reading the comments and reviews before purchasing the item. Chinese silver is cheaper than its European counterparts, but not cheap! This means that all cheap jewelry is fake.
Consumer reviews say that 85% of gold from China is of good quality. The country is famous for its jewelry craftsmen and extensive experience of technologists.
Conclusion
Sterling metal is in many ways better than ordinary metal due to its resistance to external adverse factors. All over the world it is appreciated more, and its cost is higher. This metal of the same quality can be purchased at a lower price in China.
Source: https://ProDragmetally.ru/dragotsennye-metally/serebro/sterlingovoe.html
925 sterling silver from China, what is it?
Recently, it has become very popular to buy silver jewelry through online stores. Domestic manufacturers are required to sell products exclusively with the stamp of the State Assay Service. Things are completely different with Chinese trading platforms. Nobody controls them; you have to rely only on their integrity and honesty. So what is this 925 sterling silver from China, let's find out.
The concept of sterling came to us from Great Britain. Sterling means impeccable, complete, authentic. Initially, this alloy was used for minting coins. In terms of its composition, it corresponds to 925 sample.
Contains 92.5% pure metal, 7.5% copper and other impurities. It is optimal for the production of jewelry of any complexity. It has excellent quality characteristics and is resistant to environmental influences.
Retains snow-white color and shine for a long time, does not darken.
- This is useful to know: The silver chain has turned black - what are the reasons?
925 sterling silver is the generally accepted global standard for assessing the quality of the white precious metal. Chinese manufacturers also put the numbers 925. The problem is that no one controls whether such an inscription corresponds to reality.
Be careful, silvering
Quite often, instead of full-fledged silver, you can find products made from other, cheaper metals, coated with a thin layer of silver. Visually, it is almost impossible to distinguish such products. However, it has significantly less service life, and the coating wears off over time. In fact, it is a gross deception, fraud, to sell cheap jewelry as a precious metal.
All over the world, special letter characters are used to indicate coverage:
- Silver plated (SP) – pure silver coating;
- Sterling silver plated (SSP) – sputtering of 925 silver;
- Silver on copper or EPC - silver plated copper.
The cunning Chinese, in most cases, miss the very important word plated - it turns out that the products are made of 925 sterling alloy.
Particular attention should be paid to massive things - cutlery, dishes. After all, the price difference is very significant. You should definitely check what the products are made of and read reviews. If you have the slightest doubt, it is better to refuse such purchases.
How to spot a fake
If you still decide to purchase, read the reviews carefully. An important detail is that there is a real possibility of returning the goods. In any case, according to the law, you have the right to refuse the purchase within 14 days.
The best way to check is to take the jewelry to a jewelry workshop. There are also ways to determine authenticity at home. The easiest way is to scratch the surface in an inconspicuous place. If metal of a different color is detected, the conclusion is clear - you have a fake on your hands.
- This is important: How to determine silver at home
The important point is the price. There is a lot of talk about cheap labor in China. However, their average salary in industry is no lower than in Russia. Where does such a small cost of jewelry come from then? Isn't there a simple scam behind this? If the cost of one gram of silver is about 60 cents, how do the Chinese manage to sell jewelry with stones weighing 1 gram for a dollar.
- : Cost 925 samples per gram, as of today
According to the law, all products made of precious metals, including imported ones, must be inspected by the Assay Office before sale. Selling products without testing is a criminal offense. The result of the test is a stamp of the established type, which confirms the quality.
There are no such requirements for coated jewelry. There is no official stamp on products from China. This suggests the use of double standards by Chinese manufacturers. For the state, such products are jewelry (no control required, free sale). For consumers, this is 925 sterling silver. Whom the Chinese are deceiving in this case - the state or the buyers - can only be found out by determining the authenticity of the purchased jewelry.
If this article has sowed doubt in your soul, great - doubt it. Popular wisdom says: “Measure twice, cut once.” To save yourself from disappointment, weigh the pros and cons before purchasing 925 sterling silver from China.
Source: https://999proba.com/sterlingovoe-serebro-925-proby-iz-kitaya/
