Sterling silver is coming back to fashion, as many jewelry shoppers know, this affordable jewelry is making a comeback on the expense of the more traditional gold jewelry.

If you are not familiar with sterling silver jewelry you should know that it has been around for a long time, the main problem is that sterling silver is not as robust as gold and does not survive time as well as gold. Sterling silver jewelry is for the “now” and it is certainly making its appearance well noticed by all.

Modern times call for a lighter and elegant metal to compliment the darker colors used today by the fashion industry, the sterling silver accompanies these tones fantastically and is also one of the more affordable metals on the market.

It is well known that silver is the most common of all the precious metals, sterling silver is perfect for use in the jewelry industry because it is strong enough to work with.

One issue with the sterling silver is cleaning, sterling silver is durable and has a great shining potential, but it needs cleaning, experienced sterling silver jewelry have learn to differentiate between a daily, regular cleaning and a more through professional cleaning. In accordance with today’s lifestyle sterling silver jewelry is for people on the go, and it needs to be maintained and worn in a certain way, because of its tendency to get dirty it is recommended to apply make up before putting on your jewelry, but these small and petty precaution steps are nothing compared to the glamour of a unique designed sterling silver jewelry.

Sterling silver jewelry is made of a combination of silver and copper, most of the metal used is of course the sterling silver. The differences between the metals have made sterling silver cost much less than gold and therefore be a direct competitor for shoppers hearts, while the older generation usually prefers the traditional gold, young people and fashion savvy shoppers have a tendency to go for the sterling silver and enjoy a lower price for a stunning sterling jewelry.

When shopping for sterling silver jewelry be advised that sometimes it is referred to as just Sterling or “.925”,because of its relative friendliness sterling silver can be processed and designed in many ways, allowing shoppers to enjoy an abundance of sterling silver jewelry, rings, earrings, bracelets and many more kinds of jewelry are produced by all jewelers around the world to comply with the growing demand of the public to the sterling silver jewelry.

Do not be deterred by the need to clean the sterling silver jewelry, it is like most other metals and at its best when cleaned and maintained well, but sterling silver jewelry will keep shining as long as you take good care of it.

Sterling silver jewelry is becoming the sensible choice to those of us who do not want to spend a lot of money on jewelry and still want to be fashionably updated gaining a lot of popularity because of its features, enjoy sterling silver

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As a collector, one of the first and important decisions is whether to focus your efforts to collecting silver plate or sterling silver antiques.

Historically, collecting and using sterling silverware and flatware was a symbol of wealth and social status in England, America and Europe. However, with the advent of electroplating technology during 1800s, by inventors such as: Luigi Brugnatelli (1805); John Wright (1845); The Elkingtons (1840), the use and collection of silverware became more accessible to the broader community. As a result of electroplating technology, silver plate silverware and flatware is a more common find for the antique collector in contemporary times.

When browsing or researching antique silver plate or sterling tableware, look for a 'hallmark' that will provide information about the manufacture or designer and the origin location. This is important as a way of authentication as a genuine silver plate or sterling silver item.

Patterning is another feature to consider when purchasing and collecting silverware. The range and variety of patterns and styles is vast. When collecting, it is not necessary to have a complete set of silverware that all display the same pattern design. The key is to find items that display patterns that can match other patterns or complement each other. This means you can mix n match various patterns and styles to make a complete set of silver plate or sterling silver tableware. If you are fortunate or patient enough to find and collect a complete set all displaying the same pattern, then fine. But if not, then adopt the mix n match idea.

The peak time for silverware manufacturing and consumer usage was during the Victorian period (1870-1920). It was not uncommon during that era for manufactures to produce 100 different items of the same pattern. This trend was in response to consumer demands of the day. Middle and upper class families often entertained with dinners consisting of eight course meals or more.

Historically, 1870 to about 1920 was the peak period for traditional silverware usage. Many makers of silverware would make up to 100 different pieces of a particular pattern. For example, dinners would typically begin with soup, followed buy salads, then fruit. After a pause, more substantial dishes would follow including fish and various meats. Deserts, cheeses and fruits would finish the dinning affair. So within this kind of dining context, it can be expected that a variety of specialized silverware and flatware was necessary. As a result of this social / cultural activity of the Victorian period, there is vast scope for the contemporary silver plate and sterling silver antique collector and investor.

Antique silver plate and sterling silverware have a couple of unique properties. Aesthetically, collectors enjoy the beauty and durability of silver plate and sterling silver tableware. As an appreciating asset, investors are rewarded by the 'stored value' especially of antique sterling silver flatware. This kind of 'asset' benefits investors and collectors for that matter against inflation and currency devaluation.

So, whether you are a casual collector of serious investor in the antique silver plate and sterling silver niche, there are several benefits and rewards that will be enjoyed including aesthetics, utility and financial dividends.

Silver Leonard is owner and Webmaster of several niche focused websites. Collecting and investing in Antique Silver Plate and Sterling Silverware can be rewarding as a hobby or investment. Visit AntiqueSilver for researching and buying bargains.

The most important decision you make, and the one with the permanent consequences, is which pattern you decide to buy. Look closely in eBay antiques/Silver/Sterling/Flatware at the categories for each manufacturer. If there is a collection for sale, search for other listings that use this pattern name to get some idea of how common this pattern is on eBay.

Sometimes you will find sellers listing collections without a pattern name, though that is getting less common over the last several years. Most sellers, even if it is their first time on eBay, realize that they will get a higher price if they do a little research on any of the many pattern identification websites so they can post the actual name of the pattern in the title of the listing.

Most sterling silver flatware will show some signs of use, but silver can be easily polished using a silver cream, and unless an item is seriously abused, flatware pieces will quickly and easily polish up so that you will be proud to have them on your table. Be very careful of black pitting on stainless steel knife blades, as this does not remove easily (or at all), and items with these marks should be avoided if at all possible.

Some sterling silver pieces may require a bit more elbow grease (that means more vigorous and longer polishing) than others, particularly the bowls of serving spoons for example, but generally there is little to worry about with any listing that gives a full description and provides good quality close-up photos. Another thing that can happen is the blades of knives can come loose from the sterling handles, but this is quite rare in my experience and any seller that doesn't acknowledge even the slightest wobble whatsoever in a listing is far over the line into misrepresentation and refund time.

The Sterling Silver Flatware is an online store with hundreds of different Sterling Silver Flatware at discounted price.

If you adore the look and feel of silver jewelry then you probably already realize there's vast selection of jewelry to choose from on the market today. This can make it difficult to know where to shop and what to buy. Whether you're shopping for jewelry online or in a jewelry or department store, there are several things to look for to ensure you're getting a great piece of jewelry.

First, consider the source. Look for jewelry stores online or off-line that offer quality jewelry pieces at an affordable rate. Be sure the store is reputable and offers informative descriptions and accurate photos of the silver jewelry that's being offered. Store clerks or online sales representatives should provide prompt answers to your questions and be willing to help you find that special silver jewelry chain, earrings, pendants or other items for your needs. If shopping online, be sure the company offers secure ordering methods before entering your credit card information.

Know the difference between custom or handmade silver jewelry and manufactured jewelry. Handmade jewelry offers added benefits such as the ability to order your silver chains "by the inch" and the ability to choose the type of clasp you want for necklaces, bracelets or anklets. If you want specialty jewelry, use keywords in the search field online to search for specific types of jewelry, such as "handcrafted Bali jewelry" or "handmade silver herringbone chains."

Sterling Silver Markings

Be sure you're getting a true silver product by looking for the markings of sterling silver. Sterling silver contains 92.5 percent silver, or 925 parts per thousand. Fine silver is 99.9 percent silver, but is also softer and may easily be scratched or damaged. Sterling silver is durable for everyday wear and more affordable. If buying sterling silver with gemstones, make sure the stones are of high quality as well as the silver jewelry itself.

Take Accurate Measurements

If ordering handmade jewelry, be sure to measure properly to ensure you'll get the right size. Handmade jewelry may or may not be refundable because it has been made to your specifications. If you need a silver chain, be sure to measure your neckline properly and allow an extra inch or two for breathing room. There's nothing worse than receiving a beautiful necklace that's too tight! Also take appropriate measurements for silver rings, bracelets, cufflinks and anklets.

Accessorize Before You Buy

Learn to imagine what the jewelry will look like when wearing it with certain outfits or colors. Try to find silver jewelry that will go well with several outfits so you can get more wear out of your jewelry items. You can buy a silver chain and wear several different silver pendants with the same chain depending on your mood for the day or the type of outfit you're wearing.

Buy silver rings, earrings and even hair barrettes to match your chains to complete your ensemble. Look for silver jewelry that expresses your personality, whether bold, shy or colorful! Do you go for the daring look or a more traditional style? Silver jewelry comes in so many styles that it's easy to find exactly what you need.

Silver jewelry also makes a wonderful gift for holidays, birthdays, anniversaries or any gift occasion. Beautiful handmade silver jewelry is something you might want to consider as a gift or collectible jewelry that you can pass on as a family heirloom. Whether buying for yourself or that special someone, use these tips to find high quality silver jewelry today.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web.
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