Mexico is one of the countries rich in silver deposits. The design of the jewelry is influenced by many things.The Mexican silver jewelry tells a lot about the religion and mindset of Mexican people. Mexican jewelry is rich in colors and is characterized by the expert craftsmanship.

If somebody will have a look at vintage Mexican jewelry he can see an eagle assay mark. There are people whose work is highly prized. Some of them are Los Castillo, Margot De Taxco and William Spratling.

Since time immemorial Silver has been used for the purpose of decoration - both home and individuals. In earlier days silver was called fine silver jewelry owing to the fact that it was 100% pure. As it is a soft metal in its pure form it used to get discoloured with the passage of time. Often it lost its shape and used to get badly damaged. In order to overcome these drawbacks, sterling silver was produced.

Sterling is 925 pure silver mixed with other metals such as copper and zinc. The advantage of sterling silver is that it is harder and less prone to damage. Once it is coated in Rhodium or another heavy metal it will not tarnish. Otherwise also, it is very easy to clean and take care of.

Usually silversmiths and professional jewellers alone are responsible for making fine silver jewelry. Individuals do not have any role here to make personalized pieces of the same. There is no exciting way to make fine silver jewellery attractive for common people. On the other hand sterling, a popular silver mixture called an alloy can be used to make exciting silver jewelry. The minimum silver content is stated as 925 parts per thousand of pure silver. To mark silver content in sterling silver, the figures 925 or 92.5 is used.

There are certain tips to be followed by importers to buy sterling silver jewelry. The FTC, US Federal Trade Commission has made it mandatory that jewelry sold in the US cannot be marked as silver, solid silver, sterling silver or any other abbreviation unless it contains at least 92.5 percent pure silver. A jewelry stamped with 'ster', 'sterling' or '925' is an indication that it is 925/1,000ths pure silver. It is a very strict rule which cannot be violated, that unless the criterion is met it cannot be even called silver. Copper is the commonly used metal to round out the 7.5 percent alloy balance in sterling silver. Even though it adds hardness to pure silver, it bring along a tendency to tarnish. This darkening occurs when sterling silver reacts with gases in the air or with other substances that it comes into contact with. It should be understood that any silver coloured jewelry is more commonly referred to as being made from base metals like copper and steel.

When you take the decision to buy a piece of jewelry for yourself or your loved ones it is always better to go to an authentic dealer. Finalise the item after you shop around comparing quality, price and service. It is important to ask for the refund and return policy before you make the purchase. Checking for the apt markings on metal jewelry is indispensable along with asking the dealer whether the pearls are natural, cultured or imitation. You should also know whether the gem stones have been treated and special care is needed. Relevant information regarding the gem's weight or size is to be written on the sales receipt compulsorily.

Silver jewelry is enjoying much popularity these days. So be a little careful while buying and relish the attention and admiration you get flaunting them.

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Sterling silver is a very popular medal used for jewelry in the fashion world. It is versatile, elegant and very affordable. When well maintained, sterling silver is hardly distinguishable from white gold and it only costs a fraction of the price. The polished look of glistening silver can add some major fineness to your outfit.

What is Sterling Silver?
Silver is a beautiful and precious metal, but it is also extremely soft and can be damaged easily. Pure silver is known as fine silver and is soft and malleable. It is usually combined with a small percentage of a more durable metal such as copper to increase its strength. The copper increase silver's durability without affecting the color or price. The mixing of the metals contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% of the more durable metal. This creates sterling silver.

Caring for your Silver
Sterling silver jewelry requires simple care. Like all fine jewelry, it should be stored in a protected area such as a Ziploc bag or wrapped in tissue. Many jewelry cases are also made with a protective interior felt on the inside to keep the silver safe from tarnishing. Avoid using chemical dips as these can cause severe damage to your silver. Only use solutions and polishes that are made specifically for silver cleaning. Use a polishing cloth to clean it and wipe in back and forth, not in a circular motion. Contrary to popular belief, toothpaste is not a good product to use as a cleaner. It can contain chemicals that could potentially do more damage than good to your silver. Many things may be too abrasive for sterling silver and will cause scratches so it is important to use a proper cleaner.

Sterling Silver Patina
Sterling silver that is worn for a long period of time will begin to develop a patina, a lovely glow combined with the darkened areas. Some like the look, others do not. If you prefer a bright and shiny appearance, simply polish your silver when it begins to develop a patina.

Find high quality sterling silver jewelry necklaces offered by Celebrity Silver LLC. Also see the whole range of product from Rings, earrings, sterling silver bracelets and more!

If you haven't added sterling silver jewelry to your collection yet make sure you do this season recommends April, the author of this article. "Sterling Silver Jewelry is very popular way to accesorize your wardrobe and get the perfect look" says April during a recent podcast by a trendy fashion site.

Sterling silver, sterling silver jewelry, is not pure silver, it's a composite made up of 92.5 % silver, 7.5 % copper.

So why choose sterling silver for your jewelry, and not pure silver?

The answer is that .999 fine silver jewelry, the purest silver you can get, is too soft and malleable. It's easily damaged, and cannot be worked into rings or sterling silver bands, wrapping around a stone, or for bendable wire, all of which will naturally be subject to heavy wear and tear.

That's why silver is mixed with other metals, like copper, which makes sterling silver jewelry more practical and durable. Another advantage is that the mounting for the gemstone can be made to tightly clasp the piece without damaging it. Of course if the mounting is not tight, there is a danger that your jewelry will fall out and be lost.

When buying custom pieces in gold or silver, especially when buying sterling silver wholesale a person will want to look for the hallmark on the piece before purchasing. A hallmark is the marking used to indicate the quantity of gold or silver in a specific piece.

Most crafstmen mark their custom silver jewelry to enable purchasers to check the quality of the work before buying. The hallmarks are usually quite small and you may need to use a magnifying glass to read it.

The hallmark placed on sterling silver jewelry is commonly marked "SS" (for sterling silver). For a custom piece to be considered sterling, it must have at least a .924 content of pure silver.

Traditionally, hallmarks were made by punching with a die, but the trouble is that this method can cause damage to the jewelry, resulting in the article having to be reworked after hallmarking is completed.

These days, a new method of marking is employed using laser technology, which burns the hallmark on to the jewelry, a method which is especially valuable for delicate items like pure silver, which would otherwise be damaged by the traditional technique of punching. This method of hallmarking uses high power lasers to dissolve material from the metal surface, a modern equivalent of old etching techniques using acids.

Remember, when shopping for pieces to wear, you should not forget that while a .999 fine silver jewelry may be silver in its purest form, it may only be worn sparingly, for special occasions.

Sterling silver is gradually coming back in fashion, rather than the more traditional gold jewelry.

Modern trends call for a lighter and more elegant metal to complement the darker colors used by the fashion industry. Sterling silver is great to use with these tones and of course is also one of the more affordable metals on the market.

One thing to remember with sterling silver is cleaning. Sterling silver may be durable and have a great shining potential, but it does need cleaning. If you watch period pieces on T.V., you will know that one of the servants' jobs was to continually clean the sterling silver cutlery.

You will need to differentiate between a daily, regular cleaning and a more through professional cleaning.

If you are going to wear it every day, it will get dirty. You should put on your make up before putting on your jewelry, and always keep it in a padded box when not being worn, but these small and petty precaution steps will be well worth it to enjoy the glamour of your uniquely designed sterling silver jewelry.

Peter Phillips is an internet entrepreneur living in Canberra, Australia For all you need to get started in internet marketing:
Sterling Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver jewelry is always made of silver that is 92.5% pure. It is composed of 925 parts of pure silver and 75 parts alloy, usually copper. Sterling silver jewelry always has the stamp of sterling silver on it, accompanied at times with the name of the designer or jewelry manufacturer. The word "sterling" is the most respected in the jewelry business today. Since pure silver by itself is too soft, another metal such as copper is added to it, to give the silver its added stiffness and other qualities. The resulting mixture is composed of 925 parts pure silver in every 1000. This proportion never varies. It is fixed by law. This is referred to as sterling and is often incorrectly called solid silver.

Sterling silver jewelry is made from this sterling silver, which is a white and highly reflective precious metal. It is of superior quality, which reflects in its look and feel. Although less durable than stainless steel and other precious metals, sterling silver is often employed in watches that coordinate or look like sterling jewelry. A protective coating may be added to prevent tarnish. Sterling silver jewelry is not very cheap, yet is also not beyond reach. It has a very distinctive look and can be easily distinguished. There is no mistaking the high reflective shine of this jewelry, which is one of its trademarks.

It adds a sophisticated charm to your personality. Sterling silver jewelry is very stylish and lends an incredible elegance to your entire look. The inedible stamp of quality along with the chic sophistication makes it a wonderful “must have” product. It is a very versatile ornament that crosses all barriers of age, cast, creed etc. It can be worn by anyone whether young or old. Some care has to be taken with any sterling silver jewelry that you own. This jewelry does tarnish with time. Tarnish on silver starts out as a yellowish tinge and is most easily removed at this stage. Silver tarnish progresses to a blackish purple coating becoming much more difficult to remove. Prolonged, unprotected storage is generally when tarnish occurs.

Usually, tarnish will not appear on jewelry that is worn on a regular basis. The gentle friction from wearing and the contact of oils on the skin will likely keep your jewelry bright and sparkling. Note though that taking certain medications can cause changes in skin acidity and may cause jewelry tarnishing.

To exercise good silver care, keep your jewelry free of tarnish by frequent cleaning. A simple diluted solution of mild dishwashing liquid and water can clean your silver jewelry. You can make your own cleaner by putting 2 tablespoons of baking soda and 2 tablespoons of salt in an aluminum pan - make sure it?s aluminum, that?s what makes this work - add hot water, mix it up and drop in your tarnished silver. A "magical" chemical removes the tarnish. Then, rinse and wipe dry.The presence of moisture will promote tarnish so, If possible, store your jewelry in a zip-loc plastic bag with anti-tarnish paper.

Light tarnish or oxidation film can be removed with silver polishing cloths. You may find them at supermarkets, hardware stores or jewelry shops. Heavy tarnishing will require commercially available polishing creams, or dip liquids. Use care with these, limiting the exposure of gemstones to silver cleaners as they may contain chemicals that can harm certain gemstones. Always rinse and dry jewelry thoroughly. I've found that using a hairdryer works very well to insure removal of moisture. Use a soft cloth to make sure no residual cleaner remains.

Note: Cream and dip liquid polishes will most likely remove tarnish and oxidation from your jewelry. They will also most certainly remove any decorative oxidation designs and patinas as well. Therefore, it's best to keep these items free of tarnish through proper storage and the use of cleaning cloths. BUT avoid cleaning your sterling silver with tissue. Believe it or not, tissue can scratch your silver.

Avoid jewelry contact with abrasive soaps, chemicals, perfumes, hair sprays, dyes, etc. Remove your jewelry while washing, bathing, doing dishes, household chores or cleaning with chemicals. Silver is a relatively soft metal and can scratch, so don?t scrub with abrasive cloths or cleansers. Remove your jewelry before doing strenuous activities, exercise, sports, swimming (both ocean saltwater or chlorinated pools), to prevent scratching, denting or loss of gemstones. Remove jewelry before going to bed to avoid kinking or breakage.

Sterling silver jewelry has a unique air of class, sophistication and style surrounding it. It is a wonderful thing to own and also to give to people who matter. It says a lot about your personality and taste. Wearing sterling silver jewelry can immediately enhance your over-all persona. It is available for both men and women being one of those essential pieces of jewelry that you must have in your collection. Its versatile look allows it to be used for many occasions, and the feel and texture is quite fashionable, as well as glamorous. By knowing some of silver's characteristics and taking a little extra care, your silver jewelry can give you a lifetime of enjoyment.

Jack Shafer is the webmaster and co-owner of J&M Jewelry Designs. If you're looking for a special bauble for your mother, sister, that favorite aunt, girls jewelry, or if you just want to splurge on yourself... J&M Jewelry Designs has the perfect gift that one can cherish forever! We also have a large selection of Sterling Silver Awareness Jewelry that is a thoughtful gift, and is perfect to mark important milestones, or just to show you care. One more thing... We add new and custom-designed Sterling Silver jewelry to our online store almost every day! So be sure to check back often, because you never know when you just might find that perfect piece of sterling silver jewelry you've been looking for!