Silver and Sterling Silver
Silver is among the three archetypal valuable metals, the other two being gold and platinum. It has even been used as legal tender money in the olden days. The content of silver in pure silver is 99.9%, which makes it too elastic and acquiescent. Silver has been widely used for making jewelry. But for jewelry making the pure form of silver is not suitable as it is quite malleable. Thus sterling silver came into being. Sterling silver is an assortment of silver and copper, in a fixed percentage ratio of 92.5:7.5. Copper provides it solidity, sturdiness and even provides resistance against tarnish. The term 'sterling silver' has its origin around 13^th century in England. But this form of silver gained its popularity and demand in the 19^th and 20^th centuries.

Use of Silver in Jewelry Making
Since age old times, silver has always remained a favorite with jewelers. Jewelry made of sterling silver is gaining popularity these days as it is long-lasting and even pocket friendly when compared to jewelry made out of gold or platinum. Jewelry made out of sterling silver is refined and is available in intricate and up-to-minute designs. The addition of copper makes it compatible to all twists and turns. The addition of copper to silver makes the jewelry more durable and adds to its sheen and helps in reducing the rate of smudge. Since pre-historic times, the silver has been perfectly blended with jewels and beads in making silver rings or silver bracelets. Sterling silver provided relief from the age old use of only gold jewelry which at times is to flashy. This jewelry can match all types of skin colors, thus making every woman attractive.

Use of silver wire in making jewelry
With the ever changing fashion industry the demand for new form of jewelry has popped up. Silver wire is an amazing form, which is being excessively used to silhouette designer pieces. Sterling silver is a pricey form of silver wire. Depending on the wire gauze, working of sterling silver wire can be either easy to work amid or can be rigid. While giving the shape, the pure form of silver wire is used as it is easily malleable and ductile. Wire which is silver plated is a substitute for the silver wire, and the base used is generally copper. The silver plated wire also needs to be coated to protect them from ruination. With the succession of twist, wraps and spirals and insertion of crystals and gems, the special pieces of jewelry are being designed. Exquisite styles and designs of silver rings, silver chains, silver bracelets, silver pendants and silver earrings all are available. Its marvelous glitter makes it pleasing to eyes and is available at pocket friendly prices.

Steps to take care of jewelry
With the increasing demand of sterling silver jewelry, the need to take care of it even arises. The following steps should be kept in mind to retain your favorite silver rings, silver bracelets and silver pendants:

- Only soft cloth and mild washing agents should be used to clean the jewelry.
- If the piece of jewelry contains some gems or stones the soapy solution is only recommended as harsh soap solutions can harm the jewelry's cement used to fix it up.
- Toothpaste can be used to get back the lost sheen of the jewelry.
- The silver jewelry is open to corrosion when wore in water and air, so it is advisable to remove the jewelry while doing household and kitchen work.

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If you love the white metals and are drawn to white gold and/or platinum, then sterling silver is an affordable alternative that allows you to get the same look at a fraction of the cost. When you wear a piece of jewelry, it says something about you. Your personality. Your style. Your attention to detail. Truthfully, the jewelry that you choose is all about you and your taste in accessories. Below are five fun facts about your favorite sterling silver jewelry:

Rings can elongate your finger. If you choose a ring style that is longer than it is wide, it can actually make your fingers appear longer. If you have short fingers, perhaps you enjoy the look of an elongated and graceful hand. The length of a ring is measured from top to bottom or, visually, as it would appear from knuckle to knuckle. The width of a ring is measured from side to side or, visually, as it appears horizontally while sitting on your finger.

Colorful cubic zirconia jewelry offers a glimpse at wealth. Cubic zirconia is the world’s most popular simulated diamond, which instantly gives it a look that’s far beyond its cost. Because this stone is a created one, it’s much more affordable than a genuine diamond. Still, the naked eye cannot distinguish between the real thing and an imitation. It has been said that for every one colored diamond, there are 10,000 white diamonds. This means that a colored diamond is much more rare and, therefore, more expensive. Popular diamond colors include yellow, pink, red, blue, black, champagne, chocolate and even green. Cubic zirconia jewelry that imitates these colors give the wearer an instant ‘wow’ appeal.

Dangle earrings are taking a ‘swing’ at current trends. The popularity of today’s earring is centered around the jaw line and having a length that reaches it with ease. Movement in your sterling silver jewelry is always terrific, which is what you will get with a chandelier or chain design, but a large hoop or drop earring is also a smart pick in terms of drape.

Sterling silver is the perfect backdrop for cubic zirconia. Because sterling silver is a white metal, it compliments the flawless cubic zirconia perfectly. If you were to set genuine diamonds in sterling silver, they would have to be of very good quality and nearly eye clean in order to get the perfect look. If the diamonds were less than eye clean, their cloudiness would be obvious. With cubic zirconia, you don’t have to worry about inclusions or other imperfections, which is why they work beautifully with the white tone of sterling silver.

Sterling silver measures high on the hardness level. It is estimated that sterling silver ranges between 2.5 and 2.7 on the hardness level, which makes it stronger than some types of gold. When you wear a piece of jewelry, it’s important that it be sturdy enough to hold up for everyday wear. Whether it’s a ring, bracelet, earring or necklace, your jewelry should be able to withstand regular use.

Almost Diamonds, a popular online retailer specializing in sterling silver jewelry, has a complete line of items featuring cubic zirconia and genuine gemstones in a variety of styles to choose from. If you are looking to maximize your jewelry collection without minimizing your wallet, consider the affordable option of sterling silver. Not only is this a precious metal that’s designed to last forever, but it also is an economical way to get the look of platinum or white gold without spending a fortune. For more information on sterling silver jewelry and sterling silver rings, visit Almost Diamonds at http://www.almostdiamonds.com

Jewelry chains are fine metals that are used as an adornment on neck and hands. Decorative gems and pendants are attached to add to its beauty. Sterling silver jewelry chains are worn with casual dresses and lend a chic look to the owner. A small chain with a tiny pendant gives a subtle look to different apparel. As Sterling Silver is easily available and also affordable, it can be worn daily by poeple. The style, shape and design of the sterling silver chains can be modified and molded.

There are different styles in which chains are available.

Beads

There are no links. While looking at it, one feels that beads are attached to each other.

Belcher

The thickness of this chain is wider than the trace. The links of the chain might vary in shape. When the links are square in shape and have a tighter hold on each other, they from "Briolette"

Byzantine

A link formed of 2 circular links is enclosed by a crescent shaped link. It looks ellipsoid in cross-section, when laid flat on a surface.

Curb

When the curb chain is laid flat, the links interlock themselves. The width of the chain may go up to 2 cms. These chains are thicker. They are so thick that they can be used for horse stack also. With experiment, a 'Singapore' style was invented.

Herringbone

The links are arranged in V-shape to give the look to lay entirely flat. The strands are so thin that it can either be plaited or twisted together.

Prince of Wales

Small circular links are entangled into each other. They entangle in such a way that it brings out a new style and also doesn't look shabby.

Rope

Two twisting strands are placed in such a way that many small links are not completely joined. The disadvantage of such a chain is, when a single link break, the others follow in train. Figaro is the stylish form of a rope.

Snake

The links are tightly arranged that includes a square or round cross-section. The links are arranged in a crisscross manner.

Spiga

The links are interconnected like plaited hair.

Trace

It is a commonly found style of chain worldwide. Such chains are consistent in breadth but have finer widths. They're very delicate. It can hold pendants that weigh approximately 3.4gms.

Wheat

The links of the chain are attached and look like wheat grains.

Sterling Silver Jewelry Chains - As the most highly recognized and respected brand in the entire silver jewelry industry, our buying power and quality of product is second to none.

Fine silver jewelry has enriched our neighborhood folklore for long. The earliest traces of silver jewelry can be traced to the Sumerian people who lived around 3000 BC. Silver has been a timeless treasure since time immemorial. Silver jewelry has symbolized religion, cult worship, mysterious peace and a sublime harmony. It has been called the white gold and the lunar metal. Sterling silver, too, like its parent metal has enamored and dazzled those who have loved it.

This article intends to traverse the journey of fine silver jewelry through the ages of human civilization. This timeline will prove beyond any doubt the timelessness of silver jewelry and dispel any allegations of it being a fickle fad.

The earliest remnants of silver jewelry were found at the excavation sites of the ancient Sumerian city of Ur. These jewels date back to around 3000BC. The silver deposits at the mines around Anatolia(modern day Turkey) were also found at this point of time. The Chaldeans of around 2500BC were the first people who were able to extract silver from ores of other metals. Evidences from ancient cultures of North and South America at around 1000 BC show advanced silversmith techniques among the tribes.

At around 900 BC the Larium mines near Athens were discovered. The silver from these mines sufficed the silvery needs of the ancient Greeks and Romans for the next 1000 years. At around 200 BC the Chinese immigrants to Korea brought their silver techniques to Korea and Japan. But, unfortunately in Japan silver never gained much popularity.

Ancient Egyptians alloyed silver with mystery. Silver was worn by both men and women as amulets, pendants, charms and elaborate ornaments. Silver was used to make special ornament called cartouche. It was essentially a pendant worn with a necklace, in which mysterious hieroglyphics were inscribed. These amulets were worn through infancy through death. It had special importance alongside gold and had mysterious significance for the afterlife.

At 1st century AD instances of silverware were found in the Indian subcontinent. Silverwork attained importance in China by 600 AD. At around 900AD fine silver techniques have reached the Oaxaca region of Mexico. At around 1000AD Spanish mines began to be important sources of silver. These mines supplied silver to the eastern European regions of Germany and Austria-Hungary.

Between 1500 to 1800 huge amount of silver was exploited by European exploiters, from the Latin American countries of Bolivia, Peru and Mexico. An interesting trend came into vogue in 17th century New York, when natives of Seneca, Iroquois, Cayuga and Onodaga tribes melted European silver coins to make fine silver jewelry. In the 17th and 18th century Silver was widely used in India and China.

The 19th and 20th centuries also witnessed major developments in the silver industry. Electroplating was invented at this time. In America, by 1870s the Zuni tribesmen became master silver artisans. This knowledge was passed onto them by the Navajo tribes, who, themselves had learnt the artistry from Mexican tribes. In England, Queen Victoria revived a new 'aesthetic period' at around the same time. Old Celtic motifs were remodeled in silver. This period lasted until her death in 1901. The 20th century witnessed the Art and Crafts movement from 1894 to 1923, when silver assumed important significance. The Art nouveau period (1890-1915) coincided with the art and crafts movement and new ideas were incorporated in silver designing.During the world wars, Europe lost much of its silver and the American artisans became more popular. The rising dominance of American Pop culture also added to the fine silver jewelry of the period.

Sarah Carnagie is a silver jewelry lover, and DreamlandJewelry.com's head of quality assurance for Fine Silver Jewelry. You can find more info on sterling silver and Sterling Silver Chains by visiting the web's largest discounter of Silver Jewelry, DreamlandJewelry.com

Silver is widely diffused but is rarely found in the native state.

Silver is originally as widespread as gold, occurring in nearly all of the volcanic rocks. Whereas gold remains unaltered by the action of the elements and is often carried long distances from its original place of occurrence, silver on the contrary is only to be found in the rocks where it originally occurs. When these rocks are broken down or worn away, the silver is either driven into new mineral combinations, or more often dissipated and lost. Silver, therefore, is only to be obtained by subterranean mining. Shafts are driven and the ore brought to the surface, and by use of various processes the silver is extracted, refined and made ready for commercial purposes.

An old process and one still employed extensively throughout Mexico where a large quantity of silver is produced, is to take the ore after it has been crushed or reduced to a fine mud or puddle and spread it about two feet deep over the floor of a large courtyard. Powered sulfate of copper is spread over the mass and then horses or mules are driven around in circle to tread the sulfate in and mix it thoroughly with the ore. After about one day’s treading a quantity of common salt is added and after two days more treading quicksilver is added. This mass is trodden over for a period of about fifteen days, and is then shoveled into a large tank through which a rapid stream of water is passed. This washes away all but the silver and quicksilver, which is then poured into cone-shaped canvas bags. Most of the quicksilver runs out leaving the silver, which is then retorted. The quicksilver is used over and over again to assist in recovering the silver.

Pure silver has a beautiful white color and luster; it is almost as plastic as pure gold and like it very soft. Silver does not tarnish in natural air, but when it comes in contact with sulfur compounds it readily forms black silver sulfide. The sulfur compounds which act on silver are found in small quantities in the air as a result of burning coal and illuminating gas, while larger amounts occur in vulcanized rubber, wool, and foods like eggs.

Pure silver is too soft to make durable objects that require lightness and stability of form. This defect is overcome by alloying it with a little copper.

An alloy of 925 parts fine silver and 75 parts copper is called 925-1000 fine or what is commonly known as sterling silver. This alloy is used almost universally for jewelry and the best silverware.

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The London assay office had already established its gold and silver hallmark with the leopard's head of Edward 'Longshanks', the mark it still carries today. So in the late 1700’s, after establishing their own assay offices, both Birmingham and Sheffield sought to establish their own hallmarks. The story goes, that both party's representatives from the two assay offices met in an inn named the Crown and Anchor, where they tossed a coin to decide which town would have which symbol. Thus, Sheffield adopted the 'Crown' hallmark and Birmingham the 'Anchor.'

Ironically, Mathew Boulton was the first to have a batch of sterling silver work put under the hammer by the Birmingham assay office, because it did not come up to the necessary 925 sterling silver standard. Boulton undeterred, went on to found the Soho manufactory in Handsworth making buckles, buttons, toys, plate and silverware. Boulton, the pioneering industrialist, later achieved international notoriety with the 'Lunar Society' and James Watt, who built the first commercial steam trains that would drive the Industrial revolution the world over.

By the late 1800's the silver and jewelry trade in Birmingham was employing 7,500 people. The trade peaked in the 19th Century after the gold rushes in America and Australia, and by 1913 the number of craftspeople working in Birmingham's jewelry trade had risen to 50,000. Attracted by the convenience of the Assay office and surrounding silver and gold bullion dealers, Birmingham's jewelry quarter burgeoned with skilled craftsmen and women specializing as electroplaters, engravers, chain makers, gemstone setters and silver stampers.

After two successive World Wars, interspersed by economic depression, Birmingham's manufacturing industry went into decline. At present, most of the city's businesses have become 'Service' related, and although Birmingham's jewelry industry still exists it is but a shadow of its former glory.

In 1999, a new format of English hallmarking on objects of sterling silver was initiated consisting of a maker’s mark, the assay office insignia and a .925 symbol. Optional extra marks are the ‘Lion Passant’, the U.K. sign of sterling silver, and the date letter stamp. The standardizing of the date letter sequence, shared by all four remaining assay offices in Birmingham, Edinburgh, London and Sheffield, were introduced to bring the UK system closer in line with other European Union standards.

However, the problem remains that many countries throughout the world have different standards and specifications that vary considerably, making it difficult for one country to accept another's hallmarking as equivalent to its own. With the advent of globalization, ‘Free trade’ and the Internet, finding the problematic solution to the standardization of world hallmarking has become increasingly important.

In 1972, the European Fair Trade Association (EFTA) consisting of amongst others Austria, Finland, Norway, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland and the United Kingdom held the ‘Vienna Convention’ where the first European hallmarking laws for precious metals were put into force. The convention enables specially designated assay offices throughout member countries of the EFTA to apply, after testing, a common control mark to articles of precious metals including sterling silver in accordance with the Convention. The articles bearing the Convention marks, called CCM: Common Control Marks, are accepted without further testing or marking by the assay office of any destination country that is an EFTA member.

Although this system is not worldwide as yet, Denmark, Ireland, the Czech Republic and the Netherlands have since joined the Convention. And Bahrain, France, Israel, Lithuania, Poland, Spain and several Eastern European countries have shown an interest in the Convention and are preparing for application.

Read Sterling Silver Jewelry – The History Of Hallmarking In The British Isles Part I.

Copyright © SilverShake Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

This article was written for the Silvershake website, an online retailer of sterling silver jewelry at wholesale prices. See 1000’s of gemstone silver jewelry items at prices 80% below normal retail prices. Make one purchase per month and receive silver jewelry worth up to $60...Absolutely free, everytime!

The term hallmark comes from 'Mark of the Hall of Goldsmiths' in London, who were the first official assay hallmarking office, decreed by Parliament to control the standard of precious metals circulating in the British Isles. To this day they still operate one of four authorized assay offices in Britain.

Forms of marking precious metal objects were around from the Byzantine period in the early part of the first millennium A.D. However, it was under the rule of king Edward I of England, known as 'Edward Longshanks' due to his size, that hallmarking was first established. 'Longshanks', also called 'The Hammer' as a result of his merciless subjugation of Wales and Scotland, was both feared and revered by friend and foe alike.

If you have seen Braveheart then you are already familiar with the films depiction of Edward 'Longshanks' as a crazed tyrant: however, in reality he was more diplomatic. 'Longshanks' founded the British Parliament based on the premise of 'Parlez', from the French verb meaning 'To talk', where subjects could approach the King to resolve problems. He also reestablished the Magna Carta, and introduced constitutional government passing laws such as ‘No taxation without representation’: meaning that no tax could be levied without consent of Parliament.

Besides waging wars, fighting crusades, having 16 children and other sovereignly pursuits, Longshanks also bought into effect the first consumer laws. He enacted a statute that regulated all silver articles be tested and approved only when meeting the sterling silver standard of .925 parts pure silver to the 1000. He decreed that sterling silver objects were to be assayed by ‘Guardians of the Craft’, who would then mark the approved item with a leopard's head: signifying the hallmark of the London assay office still in use today. By the later stages of the 14th Century hallmarking had been refined to encompass not just the assay office's stamp of approval, but also the marks of the individual maker and the date system allowing the accurate dating of any hallmarked piece.

Three hundred years later, at the turn of the 17th Century when King George I of the Hanoverian dynasty succeeded the English throne, a higher standard of silver known as 'Britannia Silver' was made compulsory in the British Isles. Britannia Silver, .958 parts silver to the 1000, was bought in to protect the new coinage, made from .925 sterling silver, which was being melted down by silversmiths to make jewelry and objects of ornamentation. If the objects in question, tested by the assay office, were found to contain only .925 parts to the 1000 then the silversmith responsible faced a heavy price.

When an article of silver didn't comply with the required standard, the assay offices were ordered to destroy the silver object and fine the silversmith. If the silversmith offended for a second time, he faced public humiliation in the 'Pillory' stocks and was pelted with rotten fruit. If he did it again a limb would be hacked off, and the persistent offender would eventually be put to death. The reason behind these Draconian enforcements, the ultimate in quality control, was that the manufacturing of silver was united with the minting of currency. Therefore, by debasing these metals a silversmith was undermining the coinage of the realm, a treasonable offence. However, by 1720 the sterling silver standard was restored by Parliament.

With the expansion of the English Empire and its accumulated trade wealth other cities outside of London such as Sheffield, Liverpool, Manchester, Chester and Birmingham prospered. Referred to as the city of a thousand and one trades, Birmingham, and most of the midlands of England, boomed as it embraced the Industrial Revolution. In 1760, John Betts & Sons opened the first precious metal refinery in Birmingham's northern Hockley suburb.

The foundries attracted many different trades people: gunsmiths, button manufacturers, toy makers, silversmiths and jewelers who all established different areas as the center for their workshops. However, the silversmiths still had to make a long journey to Chester or London by horse and carriage to have their products assayed. The Industrial period brought about incredible wealth, but it brought poverty to most forcing people to commit desperate deeds in order to survive. A criminal trend in the spirit of Robin Hood, which became quite fashionable during the period, was the impoverished gentleman's act of relieving the nouveaux riche industrialists of their wealth along England's highways.

This extract is taken from 'The London Evening Post's' November 1749 article on Plunket and Maclaine's robbery of Horace Walpole. Walpole was a writer and also the son of Sir Robert Walpole, lord of the treasury and English prime minister. "The man with the blunderbuss swore he would shoot him, if he spoke, bid him give him his watch, and then riding up to the chariot, they took Mr. Walpole's sword, and some silver from the footman, and rode off to Kensington Gate."

Dick Turpin, Tom King, Captain Gallagher, 'Swift Nick', Plunket and Maclaine all became English folk heroes to the cries of 'Stand and Deliver'. However, for the likes of Industrialists such as Mathew Boulton and Birmingham's silversmiths these felons spelt financial ruin. In 1773, after intense lobbying in London's Parliament by Matthew Boulton, owner of Birmingham's Soho factory, permission was granted for both Birmingham and Sheffield to have their own assay offices in order to thwart highway robbery.

Read Sterling Silver Jewelry – The History Of Hallmarking In The British Isles Part II.

Copyright © SilverShake Corporation. All Rights Reserved.

This article was written for the Silvershake website, an online retailer of sterling silver jewelry at wholesale prices. See 1000’s of gemstone silver jewelry items at prices 80% below normal retail prices. Make one purchase per month and receive silver jewelry worth up to $60...Absolutely free, everytime!

Jewelry used during marriage, especially the wedding ring, is precious for every married woman. While gold does not really go with white wedding dresses, platinum and white gold are too expensive for many people. Sterling Silver Bridal jewelry is beautiful but affordable option. The sheen of the silver also blends well with the beauty of pearls and the sparkle of diamonds.

Basic silver bridal jewelry

• Wedding ring: A wedding ring is the one piece of jewelry that one can not do without at a marriage. You may choose to have a simple wedding band. Stone studded wedding bands also look gorgeous and elegant. You can even opt for a ring made of gold and silver.
• Pave: A pavé looks beautiful on a wedding day. It goes with the white dress perfectly and has a brilliant romantic sparkle. It is also trendy enough to be worn on other occasions.
• Necklace sets: A silver single neck piece can also be the appropriate choice for your wedding. A stone studded necklace may be complemented with a pair of sparkling earnings. Just make sure the stones are not opaque. You can also choose silver necklaces studded with light blue stones. A hint of blue will complete the bride's look.
• Bracelets: A chain bracelet with stones set on it is perfect for a wedding. You can also opt for silver bangles or cuffs. Many kinds of silver bracelets cuffs are widely available.

Buying and storing sterling silver jewelry

You have ample to choose from if you decide to adorn yourself with bridal jewelry made of sterling silver. There are several online stores where sterling silver jewelry is available. While purchasing silver jewelry, you should look out for the "925" or "Sterling" or "Ster" marks that indicate the purity of the metal used in the jewelry. Also find out about the free shipping options, quality of service and delivery process of the store before making your purchases.

Silver stays best if you wear them all the time. The metal tends to sparkle if it stays in contact with the skin. Avoid wearing the jewelry to the beach as the salt water spoils the silver. You should store your silver away from other jewels so that your precious silver bridal jewelry does not get scratches.

Go ahead and indulge yourself by buying as much silver jewelry as you want, it's really beautiful and surprisingly cheap.

Sterling Silver Jewelry - Skye Sterling's cubic zirconia sterling silver jewelry is so versatile it can make jeans and a t-shirt glamorous or add the perfect finishing touch on your wedding day.

Earrings have always fascinated both men and women as simple accessories. Made in sterling silver they have become a habit for some. Pure silver, which is known as fine silver is very soft in its original form and thus is not preferred in the jewelery industry. This is primarily because it is unable to go through the crafting process without scratches and in most cases cannot take the weight of the gemstones cast in them. Therefore, the best option for silver jewelery is sterling silver, which is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals.

Sterling silver earrings are a favorite amongst almost every woman. These are available in varied sizes and go with almost, every attire. Even if the earring is a western design, it does go well with any ethnic garment. These earrings can be crafted as studs, hoops or danglers. Sterling silver earrings are available in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can be any shape or size, from tiny little squares that give a discrete glimmer, to large dangling ones which are very popular. Other shapes include of heart shaped earrings, disc shaped earrings and oblong shaped earrings. Indian sterling silver earrings are usually treated to give an oxidized finish. This is preferred as it gives the earring an ethnic and rustic look which is preferred by Indian women. Many women worldwide prefer the larger and chunkier earrings that are adorned with gemstones as it goes well with traditional dresses. These earrings maybe big in size, but they are not too heavy for the ear lobe. Most commonly these earrings contain stones such as moonstone, pearls, and amethyst.

To gift a piece of jewelry, sterling silver jewelry is one of the best choices. Apart from the Indian chunky earrings, there are smaller dainty ones that are crafted into various shapes. These shapes include that of dolphins, varied hearts, cross, birds, moon, stars, the zodiac signs. By the end of the day, it is all about preference and personality of the wearer. It adds a grand finale to a confident personality at an intimate evening. A complete casual look with shiny silver earrings is also appreciable. All kinds of latest and popular designs are made of the finest silver. Even cubic zirconia, exotic wood or seashells are used to make lovely trinkets. Sterling silver, at times, looks more appealing than platinum or even gold.

Sterling Silver Earrings - As the most highly recognized and respected brand in the entire silver jewelry industry, our buying power and quality of product is second to none.

Jewelry, is the art of ornamental adornment of the body and nowhere on earth can you find more dedication to the heart and soul of the jewelry design than in Italy. While many countries produce jewelry, few can compare to the rich history of Italy and the passion that Italian people have for beautiful design. In times past, jewelry was used to represent a person’s rank in society, community affiliation or as a sign of the person’s religious choice. This tradition began thousands of years ago in southern Italy, the Etruscans created gold jewelry that has never found an equal.

While gold is ever popular, more Italian jewelry designers are turning to sterling silver to express their creativity, such as Stefani Argento, who manufactures beautiful designs exclusively in .925 sterling silver. In Valenza, the famous Italian city which is the undisputed world leader in jewelry designed with precious stones, you will find them combined in remarkable designs in silver.

Because of its high quality, the sterling silver jewelry of Italian designers is in high demand throughout the world. In fact, Italy is the power center of the European jewelry industry, with silver and gold articles covering 70% of the total production. Each year in Italy 500 tons of fine gold, 1400 of silver and 4 of platinum are processed. There are over 10,000 companies operating in jewelry industry, employing 40,000 people for production.

Italy's history of fine jewelry design and craftsmanship continues today in both classical and contemporary styles. While gold designs are prized for their delicate artistry, in sterling silver the trend is oversized. Today's silver jewelry piece does not go unnoticed, the styles vary from sharp, angular shapes with alternating softer, rounder ones. And the Italian designers are working with many different types of elements, mixing and matching to create unusual results. They are taking sterling silver and combining it with natural, semiprecious stones such as agate, mother-of-pearl, onyx, pink quartz and various shades of rhodonite, as well as transparent plexiglass and the diaphanous, elegant reflections of pearls. The "au natural" designs combine wood with silver. Whether it is geometric, romantic, eclectic or unisex, Italian designers like Giuseppe Zantomio, Monica Traquandi and Pianegonda are taking sterling silver to new heights.

Where to Find Italian Designer Sterling Silver Jewelry

The jewelry-making districts of Italy are legend. You will find many top quality Italian designers with sterling silver jewelry showrooms in Arezzo and Vincenza. In addition, there are many manufacturers offering sterling silver and gold designs in these regions: Veneto (Venice), Toscana (Tuscany), Piedmont, Lombardy and Campania.

The designs you will find produced by these craftsmen honor the long history and tradition high quality of Italian silver jewelry. Italy designers are world renowned as the world leader in jewelry production because of their outstanding technical skills, which accounts for the abundance of jewelry schools in most of the cities of Italy, which hosts thousands of jewelry students from all over the world.

Suneva works as part-time copywriter for SAK Jewelry that offers fine fashion jewelry from Italy featuring natural stones and Swarovski crystals.

Sterling silver jewelry is enjoying an unprecedented popularity with today's fashion conscious public. You know how beautiful sterling silver jewelry is and how brilliantly it shines. Now here is the rest of the story.

Silver has been used since ancient times, but has not survived as well as ancient gold because it tarnished and decomposes. There have been times, however, when silver was "in"; we are going through such a vogue today.

Silver is the most common of the precious metals. Fine silver is pure silver, which is seldom used for jewelry because it is too soft. Sterling silver is 925 parts silver to 75 of copper, the alloy most often used. Silver weighs about half as much as gold, has greater flexibility, but is not as malleable, it has always been less expensive as well. A comparable piece of gold jewelry might cost four or five times that of a piece of sterling silver jewelry.

The current fashion trend toward black clothing has made silver jewelry more popular than ever. Silver likes to be worn; it stays cleaner & shinier through movement and friction. So sterling silver is a perfect accessory for today's fast paced lifestyles. Much like gold, sterling silver needs to be cleaned.

Care and Cleaning of your Sterling Silver Jewelry

1.) For daily cleaning it is recommended to use a simple jewelry polishing cloth that is impregnated with special jewelry cleaner. These are widely available and are very easy to use. Store your cloth in a plastic zip-lock bag, and keeping your jewelry drawer or armoire. It is a good idea to have one cleaning cloth for gold and one for silver.

2.) For a slightly more "in-depth" cleaning you may want to use a liquid jewelry cleaner.

3.) For cleaning badly tarnished silver, here's a neat little trick

a.) Cover the inside bottom of a heat-proof glass dish on bowl with a piece of aluminum foil, shiny side up.

b.) Place the tarnished silver in the bottom of the dish, contacting the aluminum foil.

c.) Add 1 heaping tablespoon of baking soda, and then slowly pour boiling water to cover the piece. The tarnish will gradually collect on the aluminum foil.

d.) Remove your silver, rinse thoroughly, and polish.

Here are Some Tips for Greater Enjoyment of your Sterling Silver Jewelry

1.) Are your silver chains all tied-up in knots? If so, here's a nifty little trick for straightening them out. Dust your chain with a little talcum powder and then try to unknot it. If the knot is stubborn, place a small drop of baby oil on a sheet of wax paper. Lay the knot in the oil and work it out with two pins; then clean the chain as instructed below.

2.) Always apply make-up, perfumes, oils or colognes before you put on your jewelry.

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Sterling silver jewelry is more affordable than platinum or gold. You can find top quality sterling crafted into a variety of styles-and it's not just affordable-it's beautiful as well! Sterling silver is a natural material with long lasting appeal, and looks great on its own, or when mixed with gemstones or beads.

Sterling silver is 92.5% silver mixed usually with copper which equals the remaining 7.5% of the composition. Silver is sold by weight and there is no such thing as purer silver or better quality silver. All silvers that are 92.5% are the same in quality.

The difference in price from one piece and another that weigh the same amount is the type of work done on it. Usually handmade pieces are more expensive than machine made pieces. They are also more exclusive, a machine made piece is made by the thousands but one handmade piece can never be the same as another.

When the piece includes a stone of some kind the price will also vary according to the price of the stone. When it is only sterling silver the difference in price will come from the way it was manufactured and the details it has. Silver is a very manageable metal and beautiful pieces can be made out of it. Usually a silver piece can be bought by its weight in silver plus a small percentage for labor.

When you buy sterling silver jewelry it is very shiny and smooth. People like that because it shines more than gold or platinum. With time it will begin to lose its shine and tarnish will appear. This is due to the metal alloy added to the silver. When the copper comes in contact with the air and sweat it tends to change color. Many people like to keep their jewelry like that because it gives it an antique look.

Silver must always be wiped with a polishing cloth, not a brush or an abrasive cleaner that will scratch the surface. The occasional use of special silver cleaners is acceptable, but these should not be used often to maintain your piece. These types of cleaners are abrasive, and the shine they leave comes from rubbing of the patina or top layer of silver on your piece.

When sterling silver jewelry is cleaned regularly with a polishing cloth and stored away from the sun and other jewelry that may scratch it; it will remain shiny for a very long time. Abrasive cleaners should only be used in case of an emergency or excessive tarnish.

Sterling silver jewelry must be stored in a cool, dry place in separate pouches. This will prevent them from scratching one another and from being scratched by other jewelry. Taking care of silver jewelry is easy and inexpensive. Proper care will keep them shiny and scratch free for many, many years.

Denise Sanger loves jewelry of all types and is the owner of ButterflyJewelryShop.com Denise is always looking for beautiful new silver jewelry pieces including sterling silver sand dollar jewelry to add to the company's unique jewelry catalog. Denise is located in Sunny North Florida and may be reached at 877-297-9050

When someone says they love silver jewelry, they could be referring to anything from pure sterling silver to very cheap silver-plated costume jewelry. Silver can refer to the type of jewelry or merely the outside color of jewelry. But when one mentions "sterling silver" jewelry, they're usually talking about a high grade of silver used to make beautiful, durable jewelry.

Sterling Silver Facts

Silver is a precious metal that has been used to create jewelry on a wide scale since the late 1700s. Though it was used in jewelry before that time, mining in continents of the western hemisphere revealed an abundance of silver, thus increasing the amount of silver used in jewelry production from the 1700s through the present. Silver in its pure form is very soft and will not produce durable silver jewelry; therefore, silver is mixed with a variety of other metals so the jewelry can withstand everyday wear without being harmed. One such combination of silver with other metals is called sterling silver.

According to the U.S. Federal Trade Commission, a piece of jewelry cannot be referred to as silver, solid silver, or sterling unless it has a pure silver makeup of at least 92.5 percent, or 925 parts per thousand of pure silver. The most common mixture for jewelry is copper and silver. The silver becomes harder and more durable when copper is added; however, copper also causes silver jewelry to have a tendency to tarnish. When jewelry tarnishes, it has a darkened color.

Types of Jewelry

You can find almost any type or style of sterling silver jewelry you want - especially online. You can buy chains "by the inch," meaning you can have chains handmade to suit your needs and the desired size. Having your silver chain custom-made makes it easy to create the length needed for your neck size, or wrist or ankle size for bracelets and anklets. No more worry about buying a necklace that's too tight or too big.

Silver jewelry can be customized with various clasps such as lobster claw clamps or toggles. You can buy numerous silver pendants to wear on your silver chain, and change pendants with every outfit! For an elegant look and feel, try handcrafted Bali jewelry or other unique styles that will really make your jewelry stand out. Besides handmade chains, stores usually offer silver rings, bracelets, anklets, and earrings.

Caring for Jewelry

Sterling silver tends to tarnish and may develop a beautiful patina (unique glow with darkened areas). Some silver fans like this look for their jewelry. If you like the patina look, then wear it as is. If not, polish your jewelry with a soft polishing cloth to restore your silver to its natural shiny state. Sterling silver should be cleaned gently with polish cloth. Avoid using abrasive cleaners - even toothpaste can leave scratches on your jewelry! When storing your jewelry, place it in tarnish prevention bags or cloths, which help slow the tarnishing process. Also, keep your jewelry in a cool room with low humidity. If storing in a box or case with other jewelry, prevent your silver jewelry from tangling with other harder jewelry, which might cause scratches on the jewelry.

Sterling silver jewelry provides a lovely accessory for wear to work, parties, and romantic outings. It is also affordable so you can buy it for yourself or as a gift for a friend without spending a fortune. Check out sterling silver jewelry products online and add these fine items to your jewelry collection today!

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

Learn more about Silver Jewelry.

Silver- the Queen of Metals

These days, Sterling silver is the demand of the market. It is the major metal that is used in making beautiful jewelry.

Silver is a white shiny metal used for various purposes, including ornaments, utensils and currency. It is a chemical element with highest thermal and electrical conductivity when compared to other metals. Also, silver is a soft and flexible metal which makes it malleable in nature. Hence, to make it durable and strong, other metals are added to it. One of such forms is 'Sterling silver' which is the most accepted and admired ornamental metal. It is an alloy of pure silver with other metals like copper.

Composition of Sterling Silver

According to the jewelry standards, every ornament should have a quality approval stamp on it. Also, the customers should be provided with minimum 92.5% pure silver. Hence, Sterling silver comprises of 92.5% pure silver combined with 7.5% copper. The alloy (copper) that is mixed is low-priced, and is found in abundance. The product of this combination is a white precious metal which is the most demanding artifact in the silver industry. Apart from it, silver jewelry is given a protective covering which saves it from tarnishing.

Therefore, the jewelry designers and stylists use silver jewelry to make variety of ornaments like chains, earrings, pendants and rings.

Why is Sterling Silver More in Demand?

Because of its lustrous and elegant look, silver jewelry is appreciated by people of all ages, especially women. Moreover, Sterling silver is safe to wear too. It has no allergic reactions on the skin and therefore, many people prefer wearing silver jewelry.

Women demand variety of silver chains that can be matched up with their dresses, including casual wear, formal or party wear. It is the ideal accessory that they require to give their dressing a complete look. This metal jewelry goes well with every individual's personal style and enhances elegance and sophistication. Also, silver jewelry epitomizes simplicity and adds to the individual's style.

Worried about Maintenance?

The sterling silver needs maintenance as it is susceptible to the risk of tarnishing. Hence, the precautions should be asked from the jeweler at the time of the purchase.

Few simple tips should be considered so as to protect your precious sterling silver ornaments against tarnishing. The jewelry should be washed with mild detergent and water after every use. Since, it is a soft precious metal therefore it should be handled with care to avoid damage. If tarnishing occurs, the jewelry should be polished to revive its former luster. Also, there are corrosion- resistant bags available in the market to store silver jewelry items, such as silver chains, bracelets and earrings. Try to keep silver ornaments at dry and cool place.

So, young ladies who wish to flaunt their deep-neck evening gowns can try the sterling Silver chains that will enhance their attires and give altogether new look to their personalities. Last but not the least, silver is affordable and within the reach of jewelry lovers.

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As jewelry trends come and go, silver jewelry remains popular across all economic and fashion spectra. Silver has attracted man's fascination for many thousands of years.

Ancient civilizations found silver deposits plentiful on or near the earth's surface. Relics of these civilizations, include jewelry, religious artifacts, and food vessels formed from the durable, malleable metal. This metal took on near mystical qualities in marking important historical milestones throughout the ages, and served as a medium of exchange.

Today, silver is sought as a valuable and practical industrial commodity, as well as an appealing investment precious metal.

Although silver is relatively scarce, it is the most plentiful and least expensive of the precious metals. The largest silver producing countries are Mexico, Peru, the United States, Australia and Chile.

So, that elegant pair of glimmering sterling silver drop earrings once prized by your late grandmother looks great today whether you wear the silver jewelry casually or put them on for a formal occasion.

Of course, not everyone is fond of estate silver jewelry, preferring to buy silver jewelry that is new and exciting, especially something designed by one of today`s contemporary artisans. It is these same designers who are seeing a mini boom in business today as shoppers discover the value of owning quality sterling silver jewelry and at prices much lower than gold. Tight economy or not, if your creations are especially attractive, you`ll catch the attention of savvy buyers.

Hot Diamonds is one such designing team producing some of the most sought after sterling silver jewelry of our time. Don`t let the name fool you, Hot Diamonds does feature at least one small brilliant cut diamond in every silver jewelry piece, but the accent is just as much on the metal as it is on the precious gemstones. You can find earrings, bangles, bracelets, pendants, necklaces, and rings featuring contoured shapes and fluid lines with a contemporary twist.

Each Hot Diamonds piece is part of a wider style line with such names as "just add love" or "back to nature" and "moonstruck" among others to captivate the imagination of buyers. For instance, the "just add love" line features modern and whimsical hearts and stars, an inviting style prized by young adult buyers. The "after hours" line represents the designers` evening wear collection, just perfect for a night out on the town for varying levels of formality.

Why should you choose sterling silver jewelry? James Allen.com states that if you researched the properties of silver you`d quickly realize how soft silver is by itself. Sterling silver is made up of 92.5 percent silver with the remaining 7.5 percent copper or some other metal. That is why you`ll find silver flatware pieces, even jewelry, well over a century old in excellent condition: durable sterling silver is one metal that can stand the test of time.

If you were to choose earrings made of virtually pure silver, you`d risk having them break in short order. Always buy jewelry with an eye to have it last to ensure that your investment is worthwhile and can retain its look.

A big trend for sterling silver jewelry fans is to visit estate sales to see what silver jewelry buys can be had. If you`re a fan of antiques, you`ll find the best buys at these types of sales, particularly those managed directly by the family. When an auctioneer or estate planner is brought in, prices are often marked up to cover their costs much as an antique retailer would have to charge more to cover her overhead.

For new sterling silver, your options are quite broad from flea markets to mall jewelry stores to online merchants. At flea markets you risk dealing with someone who may not be able to vouch that the earrings or pendant you want to purchase are, in fact, sterling silver. With a mall jewelry store, the merchant can attest to what they`re selling, while offering a guarantee.

If shopping online, make sure that you deal with a reputable jeweler such as James Allen. You could save a lot of money if you find the right retailer as Internet stores typically have a much lower overhead and savings are passed on to you in the form of lower prices. One can also secure valuable advice and tips for buying silver jewelry from the James Allen Silver Jewelry Internet blog.

Regardless of where you purchase your sterling silver jewelry, you`re buying classical jewelry with a strong, contemporary appeal. Whether choosing antique or contemporary sterling silver earrings, pendants, bangles, rings, necklaces, or bracelets you can reap the satisfaction of finding and wearing one of the finest of all metals.

Founded in 1998 by James Allen Schultz and his wife Michele Sigler, the idea behind James Allen was simple: Offer the world's most beautiful diamond engagement rings and silver jewelry, all at an extraordinary value. While the idea of selling fine engagement diamond and silver jewelry over the Internet seemed strange back in 1998, James Allen has now grown to be one of the largest and most successful of all online diamond retailers. The company is regularly featured in trade magazines such as "National Jeweler" and has been profiled by such famous publications as "The Washington Post" Newspaper, "NBC News", "US News & World Report" and "National Public Radio".

The above news content was edited and SEO optimized in Israel for the Internet by the Leyden Communications Group.

Each year, on fashion runways from New York to Paris, Milan, and Toyko, sterling silver is "new again" as designers interpret it in new and exciting ways. What makes sterling silver a fashion perennial? The answer is clear: when it comes to beauty, versatility, durability, and affordability, sterling silver jewelry is unsurpassed.

In the hands of talented artists and designers, sterling silver is constantly "reinvented" to suit the evolving tastes of the women who wear it. But whether as a ring, a necklace, or bracelet, standing alone or presented in combination with gemstones and other precious metals…sterling silver is always in fashion.

Here's a look at what's "hot" this year:

Peace of Silver

In 2004, many Oscar presenters and recipients wore gracefully and simply designed "Dove of Peace." pin. Embraced by such Hollywood luminaries as Meryl Streep, Susan Sarandon, Drew Barrymore, and Leonardo DiCaprio, it has also been seen on the Dali Lama and Nobel Peace Laureates Oscar Aria Sanchez, Betty Williams, Mairead Corrigan Maguire, and former UN Assistant Secretary-General Gillian Sorrensom.

Now non-celebrities may purchase the pin in sterling silver pin to demonstrate both their commitment to peace and their fashion sense. The 2005 sterling silver interpretation was designed by award-winning American jewelry artist Henry Dunay to resonate the energy of Picasso's "Dove Of Peace."

Silver Screen

With the enormous popularity of the "Lord of the Rings" series, it comes as no surprise that designers have created jewelry based on the elaborately crafted pieces in the films. Based on the actual pendant worn in the Lord of the Rings film, the Arwen Evenstar Pendant is crafted in sterling silver and comes in a wooden gift box. Measuring 2-1/2 inches in length with a 18" sterling silver chain and a Swarovski crystal stone, each piece is accompanied by a certificate of authenticity, adding long-term value to its other charms.

Works Like A Charm

Charm bracelets are both wonderfully retro and extremely cutting edge. Britney Spears, Jennifer Lopez, Avril Levigne, Hilary Duff, and other high-visibility high-fashion celebrities are wrapping their wrists in silver bracelets with the hip L.A. brand "Eldorado Club."

The "Girlie Charm Bracelet" is adorned with charming femme-friendly charms including a cat, a cocktail glass, and a kitty.

Sterling Silver - Always In Style for Your 25th Anniversary
No matter what list you consult -- traditional, modern or the now popular "ultra-modern" (which includes items like clocks and appliances) -- silver is the 21st Century gift of choice for a 25th wedding anniversary. Whether it's silver's durability, its strength, its flexibility or its unparalleled beauty, sterling silver is an exquisite memento of 25 years of loving commitment between a couple.

Topping the list of this year's "What's Hot" in silver wedding anniversary gifts, women say they want charm bracelets, hoop earrings, and hair ornaments. For wives who would like to present their husbands with sterling silver tokens, the "top of the charts" picks are cufflinks, tie clips, money clips, neck chains, and I.D. bracelets.

But #1 for him AND her -- a classic sterling silver Tiffany keyring.

For more information on jewelry and gemstones, we cordially invite you to visit http://www.morninglightjewelry.com to pick-up your FREE copy of “How To Buy Jewelry And Gemstones Without Being Ripped-Off.” This concise, informative special report reveals almost everything you ever wanted to know about jewelry and gemstones, but were afraid to ask. Get your FREE report at http://www.morninglightjewelry.com

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.