The main difference between sterling silver vs silver is purity and hardness. Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, commonly copper, while fine silver contains about 99.9% silver. That difference makes sterling harder and generally more practical for rings, chains, bracelets, and other jewelry exposed to regular wear. Fine silver contains more silver by … Read more
For most plain modern silver, the safest way to remove tarnish is to use the least aggressive method that achieves the appearance you want. Start by removing dirt and grease, then use a silver-polishing cloth for light tarnish or an appropriate silver polish when more tarnish removal is necessary. Stronger methods such as chemical dips and … Read more
The best way to store sterling silver is clean, dry, and protected from tarnishing gases inside a closed container or sealed polyethylene bag. Keep individual pieces separated to prevent scratches and tangled chains, and consider an appropriate anti-tarnish material inside the enclosed storage space. Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, commonly copper. It … Read more
Yes, sterling silver tarnishes. Sterling contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, commonly copper, and its surface reacts with sulfur-containing gases in the environment. Tarnish can start as a faint yellow or iridescent film and eventually become dark gray or black. Tarnish does not mean your jewelry is fake or ruined, and it is not the … Read more