3 Benefits of Owning a Sterling Silver Chain: What You Should Know Before Purchasing One
Chains have been popular for ages, and their appeal and popularity may peak in cycles like many fashion items, but they will always remain a staple in jewelry. Right now, chains are hot, and if you’re going to invest in the perfect piece, you should know a few things before making a purchase.
Today, there is an influx of information and countless websites trying to sell you a chain. But you may be wondering what the right chain for you is. What metal is the right one for me?
Silver has always been a popular choice for jewelry, especially for those just starting their collection or jewelry wardrobe. There are many benefits to owning a silver chain, and here are a few things we hope will help you decide if silver is the right choice for your next chain purchase.
Silver is one of the three metals considered fine or precious. (Gold and Platinum are the other two). Silver has intrinsic value, which means it will always maintain its metal value over time, unlike costume, stainless steel, or other metals that are not considered precious.
One of the biggest draws of silver is that it is an excellent value for money – since silver is the most affordable of the three precious metals. For many, gold and platinum are just too costly and not affordable.
For those looking for heavier or more significant pieces, you can get the same quality in a silver chain for a fraction of the cost, so you don’t have to break the bank to get your hands on one of these stunning jewelry pieces.
You may have noticed that some silver jewelry looks different from others. That’s because silver comes in various finishes. You may now wonder what the difference is and which is right for me?
Rhodium plating is generally the best way to prevent your chain from changing color over time and will give your silver a bright finish that will make it look like platinum or white gold. It may cost more, but it is worth the investment if you want your piece to last longer.
For those who like the natural color of silver, e-coating is also an excellent alternative that helps maintain its finish over time.
If you like a darker or antique look of silver, look for pieces with an oxidized finish. They will be darker and are made like that purposely to enhance the details on some handmade pieces.
It’s also important to know that silver plating does not mean the piece is necessarily real silver. It may be a non-precious metal that is then dipped in silver to make it look silver. Buyers, beware of these gimmicks! If the price seems too good to be true, it probably is. Always read the fine print and ask questions.
When shopping around for silver chains, look out for hallmarks that indicate the purity of silver – this will ensure you purchase a quality product that won’t tarnish quickly over time. If you aren’t sure what type of finish the chain is that you are looking at, just ask for clarification.
Below are the top 3 benefits of owning a sterling silver chain.
1. Durability
Silver is an excellent choice for chain necklaces due to its security and durability.
Pure silver is very soft and not ideal for jewelry. That’s why most silver jewelry is made using sterling silver. Sterling silver is guaranteed to contain at least 92.5% silver. The other 7.5% is comprised of other metals, like copper, making the piece more durable.
2. Versatility
Silver is a very versatile metal for everyday wear. It goes well with many looks and can be layered easily with your other jewelry, whether silver, gold, or warm or cooler tones.
Silver chains come in various designs, lengths, and thicknesses. You will find more chains to choose from in silver compared to other metals. Silver is also hypoallergenic, making it an excellent choice for sensitive skin.
3. Affordability
Silver is the most affordable of the three precious metals out there. You will get more in both selection, size, and weight of your pieces in silver jewelry. Most silver chains are made exactly the same way the gold version is, so the quality will be just as good but at a fraction of the cost.
How to care for and maintain your silver jewelry
So now that you have made your purchase, you may wonder, how do I care for my piece to ensure it lasts for a long time? Sterling silver chains are also easy to care for; keep them away from harsh chemicals like fragrances or chlorine found in swimming pools.
When you aren’t wearing your silver chain, store it in a pouch or even a ziplock bag to prevent it from tarnishing. If you need to clean your silver chain, use a soft silver polishing cloth and rub the necklace until it is clean. You can find these online anywhere.
If you have purchased it from your local jewelry store, they may offer free polishing or cleaning. That is one of the great benefits of buying locally! We also highly recommend consulting the store or brand from which you purchased the silver jewelry for any cleaning requirements directly related to your specific piece.
By following these simple care instructions, you can ensure that your silver chain necklace will stay shiny and new for years to come!