Jewelry metals - Sterling Silver

Derived from the Latin for "white and shining," silver entices with its sophisticated sheen. Like gold, it is too soft in its purest form and cannot be used to make jewelry. Copper is the most frequently used alloy because it is very effective in adding durability to silver.

Sterling silver is a mixture of 92.5 percent pure silver and 7.5 percent copper. Silver is not designated with a karat weight; sterling silver is considered 92.5 percent pure.

Silver does tarnish, although frequent wear will minimize tarnishing. Often silver takes on a "patina" or finish that results from the contact of the silver with the person's unique skin chemistry.

Given silver's lower cost, it is a leading metal in fashion jewelry. In some cases, craftsman experiment with new and innovative designs in silver that are later duplicated in the more expensive gold and platinum.

Silver is popular with people who like a more casual look.