Sterling silver has long been a staple in the jewelry world … and for good reason! From its lasting quality to its timeless style, there are many benefits of working this must-have metal into your accessory arsenal. But before you hit “buy,” there are a few things you need to know.
In this article, we’re breaking down all the ways to ensure sterling silver jewelry will work for you (good news is coming for girls with sensitive skin!), how to pick out quality jewelry that will last for years, and everything you need to know about taking care of your favorite pieces wear after wear.
Ready to discover your new favorite type of jewelry? Read on!
Will Sterling Silver Jewelry Work with My Skin Type?
First things first, you want to make sure the jewelry you choose will actually work with your skin type. A red rash under your favorite ring is probably not the look you’re going for, but we’ve got good news about sterling silver: it’s generally a safe bet for sensitive skin types, meaning it’s less likely than other types of metals to cause unwanted reactions like contact dermatitis.
But to ensure the sterling silver you’re selecting won’t leave you with unwanted side effects, we have just one rule to follow: the purer the metal, the less likely you are to get a reaction.
So how can you tell if it’s pure or not?
How to Pick out the Best Sterling Silver (Hint: Look for 925)
The easiest way to tell if the sterling silver piece you’re buying is high-quality? Look for “925,” or 92.5% pure. Paradoxically, you want to avoid 100% sterling silver pieces as they simply won’t hold up to regular wear. Sterling silver itself is a soft metal that isn’t strong enough to be a staple in your everyday wardrobe, so it’s mixed with 7.5% metal alloy materials to make it stronger—meaning you’ll get to love your new fave piece even longer.
When looking for a 925 sterling silver piece, you’ll often find a small stamp that lets you know that what you’ve chosen is high quality. We’ve made it easier than ever to find the perfect sterling silver ring or necklace for your unique style with our .925 collection.
Due to metal alloy materials in sterling silver pieces, there is a chance your new piece could leave your skin a little green—but that’s not a knock on the quality of the jewelry. Everyone’s skin reacts differently to different metals (even the most high-quality pieces), and there are ways to care for your jewelry to avoid the dreaded green ring.
Make it Last: Caring for Your Sterling Silver
You’ve found a new favorite, and you want to make it last. Good news! Caring for your sterling silver is super easy. First and foremost, avoid exposing your sterling silver to excessive moisture. That means take it off when you work out and shower, every time. Why? Excess moisture can contribute to tarnishing, which can cause your skin to turn green. Secondly, keep your sterling silver shiny by gently polishing it with a jewelry cloth when it starts to lose its luster. And finally, when you’re not wearing your jewelry, always store it in a dry place, out of direct sunlight—you don’t have that cute little jewelry box for nothing!
With its timeless style and long-lasting wearability, it’s easy to find a place for sterling silver in your regular rotation. Just make sure you pick out a high-quality piece and take good care of it for a shine you’ll love to show off, wear after wear.
By Alexa Sibberson
Alexa Sibberson is a brand copywriter with a passion for retail. From Abercrombie & Fitch and Victoria’s Secret to small, local businesses, she knows what it takes to connect with customers. She currently lives in Columbus, Ohio, where she typically works with her dog by her side.
Sources:
https://www.overstock.com/guides/sterling-silver-rings-fact-sheet