Since the 3rd Century BC, silver has been extracted in Babylon, Egypt, Rome, Mesopotamia, and Greece. Back then, having silver was a sign of wealth and power in cathedrals and palaces all over Asia and Europe as well. At one point in time, it was also used as currency. Most of the silver found today is mainly produced in Australia, Poland, China, Canada, USA, and Peru.

How Is It Made

Fine sterling silver is determined to be at least 99.9% pure. In its purest form, silver doesn’t react with oxygen, therefore, it does not tarnish or rust. Silver in its natural state is very soft metal, so it cannot be used solely in tableware and jewelry, where a certain shape is required. For silver to be useable, it needs to have a mix of 92.5% silver and 7.5% of other metals like cooper. First, silver is melted and then melted cooper is added. Once it has hardened enough to mold it, it is figured and sculpted to its final figure.

One problem that keeps arising is its tendency to tarnish, to firescale or firestain. Intents to solve this problem have led to include zinc, germanium, boron, silicon, and platinum to silver. Adding germanium, or Argentium, has lessened the firescale on the silver noticeably.

Care of sterling silver

Tarnish can be reduced by following some steps when caring for it.

-Wear it: Believe it or not, wearing your Sterling Silver Jewelry as often will help in reducing the tarnish. The oils that your skin produces, helps to keep your silver clean and shiny.

-Keep away from certain things: in a regular household, there are many substances that contribute to the tarnish. For example, chemicals such as chlorine and sulfur, particularly contributes to the corrosion. Sulfur can be found in mayonnaise, onions, latex, eggs, and wool. Lotions, hairspray, perfumes, and cosmetics are immensely harmful to your silver. Direct sunlight for prolonged periods of time is also bad. Taking off your sterling silver when doing house work or when being out in the sun for a long time, will protect your jewelry from corroding.

-Proper Storage: the best storage for your silver is in a plastic airtight bag with anti-tarnish strips and place it where there is low humidity.

-Frequent Cleaning: Clean it frequently with polish using a lint free and nonabrasive cloth. Do not rub too hard, as you may end up scratching the surface.

Having a gorgeous piece of sterling jewelry adds a ravishing touch to any woman’s wardrobe. Taking good care of it, ensures you that your jewelry will last a long time. At Exquisite Jewelers, we have a wide collection of flawless sterling silver jewelry like Pandora and Pandora bracelets.