Sterling silver jewelry has been unprecedented in terms of popularity especially in today’s fashion. In fact, even during the ancient times, most prominent people have patronized sterling silver. On the other hand, it has not reached as much popularity as it has today because it decomposes or oxidizes.
Silver is one of the most common precious metals ever discovered although pure or fine silver has not been used too often because of its softness. Sterling silver is 92.5% part silver while the remaining 7.5% is metal or alloy, usually copper. As compared to gold, silver has greater flexibility, weighing about half as much as gold. However, it is not as malleable as gold and less expensive. This is to say that a piece of gold jewelry, say, a ring, can cost around 4 to 5 times as much as a piece of sterling silver jewelry.
Today’s fashion trend incorporating black clothing has made sterling silver more prominent than gold. It even stays shinier and cleaner when it is used regularly because it likes friction and movement. As such, sterling silver has been considered the perfect accessory in today’s fashion trend.
Buying sterling silver jewelry can be both exciting and fun yet it can also be confusing. Apart from choosing the perfect jewelry, you will have to discern whether the sterling silver is real or authentic. On the other hand, you can follow some simple tips in buying the right kind of sterling silver that would suit your purpose. Whether you would like to buy sterling silver jewelry for yourself or someone special, you do not need to fret over its authenticity. You just have to be guided with some simple techniques.
- You should check for appropriate markings on the metal sterling silver jewelry.
- Make sure that the jeweler or manufacturer writes the information necessary to distinguish your chosen jewelry from the rest. Information about the jewelry should be written on the receipt including the size, weight, and grading report among others.
- You may want to shop around first when you are already out to buy sterling silver jewelry in order to compare the price, quality, designs, and service. This is especially helpful if you are not familiar with any manufacturer in the place you are buying from. Otherwise, you may have to rely on your family members, friends, or relatives for feedback or recommendations.
- Shop in companies that are prominent and popular for their sterling silver. This is to ensure that you are buying quality pieces from a legitimate business.
- As if the store or manufacturer offers refund prior to purchasing the jewelry. Better yet, choose a store that has clear and guaranteed refund and return policy.
- If the jewelry you want to buy includes gemstones, ask if they have been treated as well as how you can take care of it.
- If the jewelry includes pearls, ask if they are cultured, natural, or just imitations.
- Always ask for the merchant’s address and phone number so that you can easily refer to them in case you need their help or have a question about the jewelry you purchased.
- If in case a problem arises after you have bought the sterling silver jewelry, try to resolve it first with the jeweler. If the merchant, jeweler, or manufacturer cannot resolve the problem, contact you local consumer protection agency.
