Pure silver is a very soft and easily damaged metal.  For this reason, it is often mixed with other metals in order to provide durability.  The most common of these metals is copper.  When mixed together, at ratio of 92.5% pure silver, and 7.5% copper the result is referred to as sterling silver.  This stronger metal is used to make many items including picture frames, silverware, and various types of jewelry including sterling silver rings for women, and sterling silver charms to be worn on necklaces and bracelets.

    Sterling silver jewelry can be purchased at jewelry or department stores, and on the internet.  Sterling silver jewelry prices vary by style.  Pieces that have intricate designs require a higher level of skilled craftsmanship, so they will be more expensive than more simple pieces.  Pieces that feature semi-precious stone inlays will also be higher priced. As with anything of value, sterling silver jewelry should be treated with care and stored properly.

    Sterling silver should be stored carefully.  Although it is not as soft as pure silver, it can still be scratched fairly easily and it is also subject to tarnishing.  It is recommended that sterling silver be stored in a tarnish protection bag.  These specially treated bags slow down the tarnishing process while protecting jewelry from being scratched. Many people use household toothpaste to clean their jewelry.  This is not recommended for sterling silver, because toothpaste is abrasive and may scratch the silver. When cleaning pieces such as sterling silver charms it is best to use a simple polishing cloth which is available wherever jewelry is sold.  Although water alone will not harm sterling silver, swimming in chlorine treated pools or saltwater will eventually erode the metal; therefore it is a good idea that sterling silver rings for women and men be removed before swimming.

    By following the above tips for care of sterling silver jewelry, owners will have beautiful pieces that will last a lifetime.