What is sterling silver jewelry?

Sterling silver is a manufactured alloy that combines silver and other metals; the ratio is typically 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (commonly copper). Pure silver is too soft to use for jewelry, so this blend adds strength and durability, allowing designers to create fine jewelry with silver's signature luster suitable for everyday wear. Sterling silver jewelry is often stamped with "925" to indicate its quality and authenticity.

What is the difference between sterling silver and pure silver?

Pure or fine silver is 99.9% silver. Although it has a distinctly bright color, it's too soft to use for jewelry. Sterling silver is a blend of silver with a small amount of copper or other metals for added strength. While pure silver has a slightly brighter finish, sterling silver jewelry is more resistant to bending and damage, making it practical for every occasion and the occasion of every day.

Does silver jewelry tarnish over time?

Direct exposure to air, moisture, and certain chemicals, such as perfumes and lotions, may cause the surface of silver jewelry to tarnish over time. Proper cleaning and care will prevent a layer of patina from forming. Wearing your silver jewelry every day actually helps slow tarnish, since skin oils create a light protective layer.

How do you clean sterling silver jewelry?

Use a soft polishing cloth or a gentle silver cleaner specifically designed for delicate pieces. Avoid harsh chemicals, and, if you do take the jewelry off, store it in a dry, airtight container. Regular, light cleaning helps maintain the shine of silver jewelry and prevents tarnish.

Is silver jewelry good for everyday wear?

Sterling silver jewelry is durable and versatile, making it an excellent choice for a well-loved or starter stack. People will notice the subtle shine when it catches the light and it plays nicely with 14k and 18k solid gold jewelry. Sterling silver is also hypoallergenic, making it a comfortable everyday choice for sensitive skin.

When should you choose silver jewelry over gold?

Consider silver jewelry for a cool-toned stack. Our silver necklaces, bracelets, and earrings complement our ethically sourced solid gold and gemstone pieces. Mix and match precious metals to create a look that's unique to you.

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Shop our edit of the finest sterling silver jewelry. Catbird classics and new essentials designed to stack, layer, and mix into your everyday stack.

About Silver Jewelry

What is sterling silver jewelry?
Sterling silver is a manufactured alloy that combines silver and other metals; the ratio is typically 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (commonly copper). Pure silver is too soft to use for jewelry, so this blend adds strength and durability, allowing designers to create fine jewelry with silver's signature luster suitable for everyday wear. Sterling silver jewelry is often stamped with "925" to indicate its quality and authenticity.
What is the difference between sterling silver and pure silver?
Pure or fine silver is 99.9% silver. Although it has a distinctly bright color, it's too soft to use for jewelry. Sterling silver is a blend of silver with a small amount of copper or other metals for added strength. While pure silver has a slightly brighter finish, sterling silver jewelry is more resistant to bending and damage, making it practical for every occasion and the occasion of every day.
Does silver jewelry tarnish over time?
Direct exposure to air, moisture, and certain chemicals, such as perfumes and lotions, may cause the surface of silver jewelry to tarnish over time. Proper cleaning and care will prevent a layer of patina from forming. Wearing your silver jewelry every day actually helps slow tarnish, since skin oils create a light protective layer.
How do you clean sterling silver jewelry?
Use a soft polishing cloth or a gentle silver cleaner specifically designed for delicate pieces. Avoid harsh chemicals, and, if you do take the jewelry off, store it in a dry, airtight container. Regular, light cleaning helps maintain the shine of silver jewelry and prevents tarnish.
Is silver jewelry good for everyday wear?
Sterling silver jewelry is durable and versatile, making it an excellent choice for a well-loved or starter stack. People will notice the subtle shine when it catches the light and it plays nicely with 14k and 18k solid gold jewelry. Sterling silver is also hypoallergenic, making it a comfortable everyday choice for sensitive skin.
When should you choose silver jewelry over gold?
Consider silver jewelry for a cool-toned stack. Our silver necklaces, bracelets, and earrings complement our ethically sourced solid gold and gemstone pieces. Mix and match precious metals to create a look that's unique to you.

Shop the finest sterling silver jewelry. We offer silver rings, silver necklaces, silver chains, bracelets, earrings, and more. All of our silver jewelry is designed to mix, match, layer, and wear forever.

We also offer jewelry in solid 14k gold - shop our entire collection as well.