Silver: Metal Of The Moon
The origins of man's love affair with silver can be traced back thousands of years, to the dawn of recorded human history. It was popular in many ancient civilisations, including the Byzantine, Phoenician, and Egyptian empires, where it was used to make both jewellery and weapons.
By tradition gold is the metal of the sun, while silver represents the moon. The romantic associations of silver and the moon are deeply ingrained in countless cultures.
Today silver is one of most popular metals for jewellery. It is the most reflective metal, and can be polished to a higher sheen than other white metals. It is also affordable and extremely versatile, looking great on blondes, brunettes & redheads.
Silver facts
Silver tarnishes when exposed to ozone, hydrogen sulphide or air containing sulphur.¬Sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver and the rest is usually copper. For any piece of jewellery over 7.78 grams the percentage of silver is tested by the UK Assay office and then given a hallmark which is a guarantee of quality.¬The world's biggest producer of silver is Mexico, followed by the USA, Peru and Canada.
Buying and caring for silver jewellery
Check that it is Sterling silver. Sterling Silver is 92.5% pure rather than being plated or an imitation made with other white coloured metal alloys. Sterling silver will not contain any particles of nickel. You can get 95.8% pure (called Britannia silver) or even 99% pure, but these are not used for jewellery as the metal would be too soft to stand up to everyday wear.
Make sure it has a legally approved hallmark. A stamp of 925 is not enough to guarantee sterling quality. Pieces with only 925 on them have not been checked by the UK assay office and there is no guarantee that they are sterling silver quality or do not contain nickel. It is illegal for people to describe and sell pieces as silver in the UK without a recognized hallmark. Don’t risk it!
Think about the size and weight of the piece. Go for pieces that suit the age, build and style of the person you are buying for. There is a huge range of choice in silver jewellery from dainty to bold, traditional to contemporary.
Once you’ve got it, take care of it. Just like any other metal, Silver can be scratched and will tarnish somewhat over time and with wearing. Keep each piece in its own box or pouch if possible which will help prevent scratching. When it starts to dull or tarnish, simply polish gently with a soft cloth and specialist silver polish or a polishing cloth.
Where to find beautiful, handmade silver jewellery
Sisters Catherine & Claire D’Arcy design and import stunning hand-made sterling silver jewellery. They have over 50 beautiful designs including bracelets, necklaces, chokers, charms and earrings. Visit www.corazonlatino.com and browse their stunning site. With pieces from £45 to £175, exclusive designs and exceptional quality, there is something for everyone. They also offer free friendly advice, gift wrapping and free UK P&P. Most orders are shipped within 2 working days.
Regards
Roger Mayne
Surrey Weddings
By tradition gold is the metal of the sun, while silver represents the moon. The romantic associations of silver and the moon are deeply ingrained in countless cultures.
Today silver is one of most popular metals for jewellery. It is the most reflective metal, and can be polished to a higher sheen than other white metals. It is also affordable and extremely versatile, looking great on blondes, brunettes & redheads.
Silver facts
Silver tarnishes when exposed to ozone, hydrogen sulphide or air containing sulphur.¬Sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver and the rest is usually copper. For any piece of jewellery over 7.78 grams the percentage of silver is tested by the UK Assay office and then given a hallmark which is a guarantee of quality.¬The world's biggest producer of silver is Mexico, followed by the USA, Peru and Canada.
Buying and caring for silver jewellery
Check that it is Sterling silver. Sterling Silver is 92.5% pure rather than being plated or an imitation made with other white coloured metal alloys. Sterling silver will not contain any particles of nickel. You can get 95.8% pure (called Britannia silver) or even 99% pure, but these are not used for jewellery as the metal would be too soft to stand up to everyday wear.
Make sure it has a legally approved hallmark. A stamp of 925 is not enough to guarantee sterling quality. Pieces with only 925 on them have not been checked by the UK assay office and there is no guarantee that they are sterling silver quality or do not contain nickel. It is illegal for people to describe and sell pieces as silver in the UK without a recognized hallmark. Don’t risk it!
Think about the size and weight of the piece. Go for pieces that suit the age, build and style of the person you are buying for. There is a huge range of choice in silver jewellery from dainty to bold, traditional to contemporary.
Once you’ve got it, take care of it. Just like any other metal, Silver can be scratched and will tarnish somewhat over time and with wearing. Keep each piece in its own box or pouch if possible which will help prevent scratching. When it starts to dull or tarnish, simply polish gently with a soft cloth and specialist silver polish or a polishing cloth.
Where to find beautiful, handmade silver jewellery
Sisters Catherine & Claire D’Arcy design and import stunning hand-made sterling silver jewellery. They have over 50 beautiful designs including bracelets, necklaces, chokers, charms and earrings. Visit www.corazonlatino.com and browse their stunning site. With pieces from £45 to £175, exclusive designs and exceptional quality, there is something for everyone. They also offer free friendly advice, gift wrapping and free UK P&P. Most orders are shipped within 2 working days.
Regards
Roger Mayne
Surrey Weddings