Sterling silver jewelry is a great option for those who want a long-lasting piece of jewelry. It’s a quality metal that will never rust or perish, and it can be passed down from generation to generation. One drawback of sterling silver jewelry, however, is that it’s not the best choice for setting expensive gems. Platinum and gold are often used in these types of settings. Moreover, silver requires special care when cleaning, as harsh cleaning agents can remove some of the metal.
Another benefit of sterling silver jewelry is its versatility. There are a variety of designs available in the market, and you can build a varied jewelry collection quite quickly. Moreover, the relatively low cost of sterling silver jewelry allows you to keep up with changing trends and styles without breaking the bank.
White gold
When buying jewelry, most people are looking for the most durable option. White gold is more durable than silver, which is prone to bends and scratches. White gold also has a higher value than silver, making it a good choice for engagement rings and wedding bands. In addition to being more durable, white gold is also more affordable.
White gold, unlike silver, can be worn by people with a nickel allergy. However, it is important to remember that nickel is a metal that can cause irritation to your skin. To avoid this, make sure the jewelry you are considering has a rhodium coating, which protects it from exposure to nickel.
Vermeil
Vermeil gold or silver jewelry can be a durable alternative to solid gold. Most of these pieces are electroplated and may look similar to gold jewelry. However, when comparing pieces, make sure that you check the purity level of the gold. Sterling silver is generally pure and should not tarnish easily. In addition, you should look for a reputable seller. The best way to compare different pieces is to compare the karat weight and thickness of the gold layer.
Vermeil jewelry should be kept in a clean place, out of direct sunlight. Avoid placing it on the bathroom counter or near a heat source. You should also avoid exposing it to harsh chemicals like chlorine and perfume. You should also take special care of vermeil jewelry by storing it in an air-tight container.
Gemstones
Choosing the right gemstone for your jewelry is important, as different gemstones have different hardness and durability. If the gemstone is too soft, it may be damaged easily and will not stand up to everyday wear. A good rule of thumb is to stick with medium to hard gemstones. Medium-hard gemstones can withstand everyday use without significant damage.
Dark-colored gemstones can be matched with gold or silver beads to create a contrast. The contrast can make the stone stand out more. The contrast between dark and light colors can be made by combining darker and lighter shades of the stone.
Metal purity
If you’re buying gold or silver jewelry for a loved one, it’s important to pay attention to the metal purity of the piece. You can find out how pure your jewelry is by checking the hallmark, which is also known as an assay. This mark is stamped on the metal to tell you its purity. It also indicates the designer or maker of the piece. Hallmarks can be found in various places, such as inside rings and on the front face of coins. Using a magnifying glass will make it easier to find the mark.
The purity of gold and silver jewelry is measured in karats. The highest purity is 999.9 percent. The lowest is 1.00, but if it’s a higher carat, it’s probably not pure enough. There are also tolerances that are accepted in different markets. For example, in China, a piece of jewelry containing a certain carat is known as Chuk Kam, which translates to “pure gold.”