I've always been drawn to jewelry, but I've found myself especially fascinated by silver. There's something about its understated elegance and versatility that just speaks to me. I love how it can be dressed up or down, and how it complements so many different skin tones and styles. Over time, I've learned a few things about choosing and caring for silver jewelry, and I'm excited to share my experiences with you!
I remember when I first started seriously collecting jewelry. I was curious why most silver pieces were made of sterling silver (.925) instead of pure silver (.999). I did some digging and discovered that pure silver is too soft for most jewelry applications. Sterling silver, an alloy of silver and other metals (usually copper), is much more durable and resistant to scratches and dents. This makes it a better choice for everyday wear.
I also wondered if silver got the respect it deserved in the jewelry world. Sometimes it feels like gold gets all the attention! But I've come to realize that the value of jewelry is so subjective. It's about what you love and what makes you feel good. I found that many talented artisans focus on silver, creating stunning and unique pieces that are just as beautiful and meaningful as gold jewelry.
I've always been a fan of mixing metals. I wear a white gold ring and a silver bracelet without a second thought. Some outfits just look better with silver, while others shine with gold. There are no hard and fast rules! It’s really about personal preference and experimenting to see what works best for you. Don't be afraid to break the "rules" and create your own unique style.
One thing I did struggle with was tarnish. I love the color of silver, but the tarnish can be a real pain. I briefly considered switching to platinum, but the price point was just too high for me. Instead, I researched ways to prevent and remove tarnish, and I've found a few methods that work really well (more on that later!).
I discovered that I really appreciate the artistry and craftsmanship behind silver jewelry. For example, Taxco silver from Mexico is absolutely stunning. I would probably save my Taxco necklaces in a fire before some of my other pieces! The designs are so intricate and unique, and the quality is exceptional.
I also love Navajo and Zuni silver jewelry! The intricate details and the use of turquoise and other gemstones are just breathtaking. These pieces tell a story and connect you to a rich cultural heritage.
For everyday wear, I often pick up silver earrings at gem shows. I love finding colored topaz or aquamarine set in silver. They're affordable and beautiful, and I don't have to worry too much if something happens to them. It's not about the monetary value; it's about the joy and beauty they bring to my day.
Speaking of bringing joy, I recently discovered Blingcharming and found some really cute pieces there. I was looking for a fun, playful necklace and came across the ladies sun flower inlaid necklace.
I have to say, I was pleasantly surprised! It's a simple, adjustable Cuban buckle necklace with an exaggerated smiley face. It's gold-colored, which is a nice contrast to my usual silver pieces, and it's surprisingly well-made. I love how it adds a touch of whimsy to my outfits. You can check it out here if you're interested. It's a great way to add a pop of fun to your jewelry collection.
Here are some of the things I've learned about choosing and caring for silver jewelry: