Here are the lists for frequently asked questions about sterling silver jewelry. Let’s see.
1. If I am allergic to nickel, can I still wear the sterling silver jewelry?
The answer for this question is yes. But, you need to make sure about the composition of your sterling silver. Make sure that it’s a pure sterling silver, no nickel plated or coating. Recently, people would love to go with the rhodium coated on sterling silver jewelry, as rhodium is hypoallergic metal for most people. However, in the process of coating, some manufactures do add a layer of nickel between silver and rhodium as an adhesive substance. Make sure that you have check for the composition of the jewelry before you wear it. The high polished sterling silver is recommended for nickel allergic person.
2. What is the purity of the sterling silver jewelry?
The common number and highest purity of silver in sterling silver jewelry is 92.5. You will able to see this number stamped on your sterling silver jewelry pieces to confirm the purity of silver inside your pieces. Although sometime you cannot see this number, but recently all quality of sterling silver is coming in the same grade, for 92.5% of silver inside. You can definitely ask for the certificate if you are not too sure about silver purity for the jewelry shop.
3. How many types of silver jewelry plating so far?
There are certain methods for silver plating so far, but there are only two method that are popularly in use; nickel and rhodium plating. The nickel plating will give a more whitish look compare with rhodium plating which will come with a darker look. The price of these two plating method are also different, nickel plating will come with cheaper price compare with rhodium plating. However, rhodium plating is give a more better protection result for silver underneath. It’s up to you for any plating method. If you got nickel allergic, you have only one choice left, but for non allergic person, it’s up to you which method you would go for.
4. How to store the sterling silver jewelry?
The important point for sterling silver storage is about cool and away from sunlight. Heat and light can turn your jewelry into yellowish and speed up the tarnish process. Try to keep it in an air-tight bag and store it in a drawer or collection box. Regularly check it from time to time even you especially if you did not wear it for a certain of time.
