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easily damaged so it is commonly combined with other metals to produce a
more durable product. The most popular of these alloys is sterling silver,
which consists of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper.
Pure silver, also called fine silver, is relatively soft, very malleable, and
easily damaged so it is commonly combined with other metals to produce a
more durable product. The most popular of these alloys is sterling silver,
which consists of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent copper.
Stamps of Quality
Most high quality silver items are stamped with a "fineness" or "quality"
mark. This mark designates the precious metal content of the jewelry, and
under federal law, must be accompanied by a maker's mark or registered
trademark.
Silver Alloys
Because pure silver is so soft, it should only be used when malleability is
required, such as in handcrafted jewelry featuring weaving and other
intricate designs. Sterling silver is most often used for jewelry and
household accessories because of its combination of beauty and durability.
Acceptable quality marks for sterling silver include:
**sterling silver
**ster
**925
Care
With proper care, your fine quality silver will last a lifetime. To minimize
scratches and other damage, store your silver jewelry either in a cloth pouch
or in a separate compartment in your jewelry box. Avoid exposing your silver
to household chemicals when cleaning with bleach or ammonia, or when
swimming in chlorinated water, as these chemicals can damage silver.
Clean Your Jewelry Often
Care should also be taken to prevent silver tarnish build-up, a dulling that
naturally occurs when silver reacts with sulfur or hydrogen sulfide in the
ambient air. To clean your silver, use polishes formulated specifically to
remove tarnish. You can find fine silver polishes, solutions, or cloths
appropriate to remove tarnish at most jewelry stores or specialty stores.
Tarnish is most easily removed when it first becomes visible. Remember to
use only those that are bleach and ammonia free.
Although wearing your silver jewelry often is the best way to prevent tarnish
from building up, regular cleanings of all your silver items will prevent
tarnish and keep your silver bright and sparkling.
Look for the fineness mark and the maker's mark on the underside of the
silver item you are considering to ensure the quality.
