925 sterling silver and other types

June 09, 2014

925 sterling silver and other types
 
While many people consider silver to be an all-encompassing precious metal term, the reality is that it actually comes in an array of different forms that are used for a variety of different purposes. Each one has its own unique properties and purposes. Read on for an overview of some of the most commonly known silver forms:
 
925 sterling silver
Comprising of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy, 925 sterling silver is the most popular silver blend used to create jewellery and other silverware items. Copper is usually the alloy of choice as it significantly strengthens the precious metal without compromising its wonderful shine and beautiful colour. Sterling silver is fantastic for making unique silver bracelets, women’s silver earrings and sterling silver cufflinks.
 
Pure silver
Silver in its purest form is usually considered too soft, malleable and damage prone to use as a jewellery making material.
 
Ultra-Fine Silver
Ultra-fine silver is made up of 99.99% silver which means it is still very soft and disposed to scratches and dents. The Canadian Silver Maple Leaf coin utilises ultra-fine silver.
 
Fine Silver
This is slightly denser than ultra-fine silver and consists of 99.9% pure silver. It is used to craft silver bullion bars which are renowned as one of the most cost effective ways of purchasing precious metal in its purest form.
 
Britannia silver
As the name suggests, Britannia silver was first introduced in England in 1697 and comprises of 95.84% silver and a 4% copper alloy. Britannia silver can be recognised by the millesimal fineness hallmark of 958.
 
Tibetan Silver
Tibetan silver has a very rustic appearance and contains only a small amount of pure silver. Crafting Tibetan silver jewellery often involves chiselling and hammering which results in a rough yet beautiful finish.
 
Rhodium Plating
The idea of rhodium plating is to give metals added durability, strength and shine. It can be useful on precious metals such as white gold which are prone to scratching and discolouration. While some jewellers will use rhodium plating on sterling silver, it is generally not necessary as the precious metal is already  resilient, enduring and  wonderfully shiny!
 
Depending on your needs, any one of these silvers could be the perfect combination for you! If you’re looking for beautiful sterling silver jewellery it’s impossible to improve on the exquisite qualities of 925 sterling silver. The collection of silver jewellery online from Think Positive are all crafted from 925 sterling silver and make for perfect gift ideas for men or women!

 

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