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Guest Post: Why silver jewelry has to be 92.5%?

July 18, 2011 By

Silver JewelryBy: Rainbow Silver
Most people noted that silver metal used for jewelry generally is 925 sterling, and know that 925 stand for 92.5% silver component alloyed with other metals such as copper and zinc to be more durable than pure silver. You may hear some jewelry shops sell “Pure Silver Jewelry”, 99.999% silver. So why most in jewelry field don’t use such 99.999% precious metal even there really are in the market.

Can pure silver shaped in the form of jewelry? Yes, it can. But you can imagine like 99.999% gold jewelry that was popular once (had been but not now!) It can make people who wear feel luxurious with pure precious metal, but it can be use only “just for show” in the party in short time because it is easy to be damaged, bend or deshaped. Especially in the case of silver jewelry, it will be really easy to be dark and yellowish when wear it for a day! So it is! It is “really just for show”, for you to keep it in your safe and just look their beautiful scene.

About silver component percentage, like I said in previous that it is just a standard. The real is notnecessary to be accurate at 92.5%, just have to be more than. But what we, silver jewelry manufacturer has to specially concern for is the other metal component that is the restriction. There is the standard to not let any “look like to be harm heavy metal” in the exported silver jewelry. The one that is most restricted is “Nickel”, others are such as mercury. Where these metals come from? Yeah! you know that silver jewelry in the market have to use other material to mix with for their beauty and, of course, reduce cost of silver. So if the other mixed materials like CZ, crystal (with glue) are with silver jewelry, we have to be caution for this! (For standard factory, more than check silver percentage with laser inspection, they have to trace other metals with radiation inspection as well.)

The last one we would like you to be informed is, as the manufacturer that keep made-to-order production, the price you request cannot be steady from time to time like other goods, especially in market silver price fluctuation like this! I think people who involve in this industry is well-noted already. You can see how fluctuated the silver price at the present on kitco.com. We have to order the pure silver grain once the ordered is confirmed from buyer, cannot stock in advance to risk ourselves. Like I want to imply you that the one claim themselves “silver jewelry manufacturer” but can give you stedy price like declare in their catalogue are just dropshipper that sell just “what they have in stock.”

Filed Under: Jewelry Metal Types

Unlocking the Mystery of Platinum

January 30, 2011 By
diamond and platinum rings

Diamond and Platinum Rings

There’s really no mystery to platinum. It is, however, a truly overlooked “gem” in the world of precious metals. Equally as beautiful as gold and silver, platinum has mystified jewelers and jewelry buyers alike for centuries.

What is Platinum?
Platinum is a dense and lustrous silvery-white metal found in various places on the planet including South Africa and Russia. Platinum is a strong but durable metal – in fact much more durable than gold or silver.

Platinum is most often alloyed with other metals such as palladium, iridium and ruthenium, but nearly all fine jewelry is created using the purest platinum alloy: 95% platinum mixed with 5% iridium or palladium to strengthen the metal.

Technically Speaking
Perhaps all the mystery surrounds platinum’s rarity – it is one of the rarest elements in the Earth’s crust, even more rare than gold and silver. Platinum occurs naturally in the sands (also called alluvial sands) in various rivers on the planet. The earliest references to platinum were made in 1557 and research and experiments on and using platinum started in the late 1700’s.

Of course platinum has become a very popular choice in engagement ring settings, wedding bands for women, and other jewelry, but there are other, more technical uses for this precious metal. Platinum is often used to make electrodes and other supports in laboratories and it is also used to make items such as dental prostheses, magnets, medical tools and other items.

Precious Commodity
The price of platinum, like gold or other precious metals, has continued to rise in recent years but its price is considered to be more volatile than gold and twice as much making it a bit harder to predict. However, platinum is considered a good investment when purchased in jewelry such as diamond rings or other pieces.

Perfect Jewelry
Because platinum is so durable it is considered to be a very practical purchase in terms of fine jewelry like diamond engagement rings. Gold and silver are very soft metals and can scratch and chip easily, but platinum, while it may look scratched or aged, will never chip or scratch. Additionally platinum does not tarnish and it is considered one of the only hypo-allergenic metals known to man.

Unlike other metals, platinum will not corrode nor does the color fade or wear off which means rings or jewelry created from platinum do not need to be coated with rhodium to protect it. It is incredibly versatile and nearly any piece of jewelry can be crafted from or with platinum. All platinum jewelry should be marked with the “950 Plat” or “Plat” stamp to indicate their authenticity.

While platinum maybe rare, it is equally as beautiful and can be found in a variety of fine jewelry pieces. While it may be expensive it is clearly worth the investment.

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Is Silver A Sterling Investment?

January 13, 2011 By
Sterling ring

Sterling Ring Designs

When most people think of investment pieces that double as accessories, the most common jewelry that will come to mind is gold. It has that expensive look that makes it seem to say “investment” better than its pale counterpart, sterling silver.

While it is true that gold is still more valuable than silver, this doesn’t necessarily mean that silver does not work as an investment. Gold chains and jewelry, especially if they are 14 carat or more, are going to cost you more in the store, but let’s examine how sterling silver is gaining momentum.

Now, more than any time in history, sterling silver is gaining in popularity with consumers and jewelry designers. If you feel safety in numbers, then you will be happy to know that many of these people feel that silver is a safe enough investment. While silver gains in popularity with consumers looking for a fashionable statement in their jewelry box, what are the facts of silver as an investment?

Even silver enthusiasts will tell you that silver is not as valuable as gold, and probably never will be. In a time of financial crisis, gold jewelry, no matter the age, will bring you some quick cash.

Pawnshops and used jewelry stores rarely buy silver pieces unless they are old enough to be considered vintage or are designed by a famous designer. But this doesn’t mean the silver jewelry around your neck was a bad buy. You can feel much safer wearing silver jewelry as muggers are less likely to bother you as opposed to someone wearing gold jewelry.

Another good reason for investing in silver is that you will be able to afford beautiful, bold pieces on a limited budget. With the money you save you can invest in a few gold pieces that you are buying simply for their value and probably wouldn’t feel comfortable wearing. The same advice can be applied when choosing between buying gold or silver with companies like U.S. Money Reserve; since gold is valued a lot higher than silver, it might be a better investment to buy more silver at a lower price than buying one piece of gold.

If fashion is your main concern, then silver is definitely a metal you need to consider. It is an extremely stylish commodity right now, and time has proven that silver jewelry never goes out of style. Silver jewelry has made its way into the hearts and minds of most of the biggest style setters and fashion industry gurus. You will see silver on every runway in America and Europe. So why is silver such a fashion industry darling? Simply put, silver is much more versatile than gold. Your silver jewelry doesn’t need to be saved for certain times of the day or particular events.

Silver can add a polished finish to a casual outfit or put the final pizzazz in an elegant evening gown. One eternal style staple that is a perfect fit for silver is the classic little black dress. Silver is also the perfect metal to use as a background for colored stones, gems and beads. Silver lets the stones take center stage, which makes the vibrant colors really pop.

Sterling silver, while it may not add to your retirement portfolio, is certainly something you should invest in for your fashion future.

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Silver – the New Gold for Jewelry Design

January 13, 2011 By
earring

Textured Triple Hoop Earrings - Courtesy of Zoara

Many years ago, the majority of all jewelry was created with gold as the metal. Gold carried the reputation as a status symbol for those who were in high society or even of royal blood. Most of your common people did not own any jewelry and these kinds of accessories were reserved for queens, kings’, priests and others of the high or ruling class.

Times have changed and jewelry is common for all people in our society today. Just as the type of people who are buying and wearing jewelry has changed, so has the metals, gems, stones and beads that are used in the design elements. Gold is no longer the lone metal. The design of jewelry today is now based on style and fashion trends, not on social position. Because of these changes, different types of jewelry are available to people in all price ranges.

One of the new metals that have gained a lot of popularity is silver. While gold metal has a very distinct and almost loud effect on the piece of jewelry, silver is popular due to the fact that it has the opposite effect. Silver tends to blend in to its surroundings, therefore making it the perfect backdrop for brilliant colored stones or beads. Silver accents all types of stones and beads and doesn’t detract from their colors or shapes. Because silver is so versatile as well as of high quality and very affordable, it has become a very sough after metal for men and women. Silver can be worn with any style of clothing, and compliments dressy or casual outfits perfectly.

Silver jewelry is also an excellent option when shopping for gifts. Anniversaries or birthdays that have reached the 25 year mark make for perfect opportunities to give the gift of silver jewelry. This is definitely a gift that the receiver will treasure forever.

So exactly what components go in to the silver metal that jewelers make their creations from? Pure silver is not normally used in jewelry making because, by itself, silver is too soft and can bend or even break. Sterling silver is what you will find in most jewelry. Sterling silver is pure silver that has been mixed with copper to give the metal more strength. The common mixing ratio is 925 parts pure silver to 75 parts copper. This sterling silver mix is known as the purest form of silver that is suitable for making jewelry.

Silver has now reached a level of popularity that it has never known before. Because of this surge in popularity, it is now easier than ever to find many designs that are made with this metal. Jewelry makers are recognizing this trend and turning out more and more designs for a wide variety of jewelry types. As you shop for a special gift or a signature piece to add to your jewelry collection, give a look at silver. You will be pleasantly surprised to see what is available.

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Gold Bracelets

January 13, 2011 By
gold bracelet

Gold Bracelet - Courtesy of Zoara

Gold Wealth Bracelets
A traditional way to carry and display wealth. The gold bracelet comes in many shapes and designs for both men and women.
The bracelet instantly shows that you have style, wealth and taste. Designs in gold bracelets are varied as can see from the image above. Other popular choices include platinum, silver, steel, and copper.
Bracelets can be found in banded designs, cord woven designs and the traditional link designs. Traditionally fine links give a subtle and delicate presentation, while the bulkier chains are a functional way of carrying metal. Some bracelets are set up with removable links, for quick transference of wealth or to provide a more forceful look.
Whatever your taste in gold bracelets, we are sure that you will find one that pleases you.

Gold Bracelet Styles
A gold bracelet is typically a solid band usually in the form of a non-enclosed circle for easy placement. The gold bracelet is typically placed around the wrist or ankle. Size and thickness of gold bracelets vary with the individual design.

Gold Bangles
Gold bangles are similar to gold bracelets, except they are usually full loops of gold. Bangles are almost always loose fitting and put into place by squeezing over an extended hand. Usually bangles hang loosely and are worn in multiple groups so that they jangle slightly attracting attention as the wrist moves.

Gold Identity Bracelet
An identity bracelet is typically engraved with information about the owner. These may be in the form of a bracelet or a necklace. An identity bracelet is often constructed as an additional piece attached to a linked chain, although they can take many forms. Identity bracelets are often referred to as “dog tags” borrowing from military terminology used to identify soldiers.

Ouroboros-Oroborus-Uroboros
This is a bracelet designed to resemble a snake swallowing its tail. It is an ancient symbol of the cosmos and is frequently depicted in both gold and other jewelry designs. This is also sometimes referred to as a snake bracelet.

Belcher Chain
This is a varied style of chain usually featuring links which are composed of belcher links, which are oval shaped. There are many historical interpretations of the Belcher chain but characteristics typically include a long chain, often with a triangular, d-shaped link, or oval ring suitable for the attachment of additional jewelry or chains. Gold belcher chains have mysterious origins and were possibly first used by nomads or gypsies who required a suitable way to carry their portable wealth.

Gold Curb Chain
A curb chain is defined by the nature of the interlocking links on the chain. Frequently these are fairly heavy and have a somewhat rounded appearance. The interlocking links provide a sense of continuity and flow throughout the design. Gold curb chains may often be worn as a set, with overlapping chains creating a unique effect.

Figaro Bracelets
This type of bracelet is characterized by sets of links connected at specific intervals by longer designed links to create a look of changing pace and tone. Figaro bracelet and necklace styles typically use two types of links, smaller links grouped in bunches of a specific number and individual longer connecting links. The connecting links may have one or more strands of shaped gold in their design.

Heavy Gold Chains
This type of chain is characterized more by the sturdiness and size of the links than the pattern. Heavy gold chains are typically strong and composed of heavy links designed to support other valuable pieces of jewelry or to compactly carry and display significant gold resources.

Gold Charm Bracelets
A charm bracelet is a bracelet or bangle, typically loose fitting, that has gold loops designed to hold other smaller accessory pieces, or charms. The charms selected are often symbolic in nature and are typically each unique pieces, rather than repetitions of the same accessory.

Pendant Chains
A pendant chain is a chain specifically designed for carrying a pendant. In most cases the pendant chain has a loop designed for holding the accessory although in some cases the pendant chain is actually sans loop and the loop is built into the accessory instead.

Fine Jewelry Accessories
Gold chains and bracelets are often accompanied by fine jewelry accessories. These are most commonly found on charm bracelets, heavy gold chains, identity bracelets and belcher chains.

Accessories are usually found in the form of pendants, lockets, or attachable and interchangeable pieces of jewelry. Accessories may be sold as part of the ensemble or selected separately depending on the design of the individual pieces.

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