Sterling Silver For Jewelry - The Specifics

Sterling silver has long held a place of distinction in the world of fine jewelry, admired for its luster, malleability, and timeless elegance. Claire Mae Company recommends choosing sterling silver for jewelry, for anyone! This blog post delves into the specifics of sterling silver, exploring the various types of silver used in jewelry, the mining and manufacturing processes, its inherent properties such as waterproofing and resistance to rust, and highlighting the exquisite sterling silver offerings from our woman owned jewelry company, Claire Mae Company.

Types of Silver for Jewelry

Silver, in its pure form, is too soft for practical jewelry use, which leads to the creation of various alloys to enhance its strength and durability. The most common types of silver used in jewelry include:

Sterling Silver (925)

Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. The inclusion of copper increases the metal's durability without compromising its beautiful sheen, making it ideal for intricate jewelry designs.

Britannia Silver (958)

Containing 95.8% silver, Britannia silver is slightly purer than sterling silver, offering a bit more luster due to its higher silver content.

Argentium Silver (930 and 960)

This is a modern type of silver alloy, containing more germanium than traditional sterling silver. Argentium silver is highly tarnish-resistant, durable, and maintains a brighter finish.

Fine Silver (999)

Fine silver contains 99.9% pure silver. It is often too soft for most jewelry items but is used for pieces that don’t require high durability, such as pendants and earrings.

How Sterling Silver Is Mined and Made into Jewelry

Sterling silver jewelry begins with the mining and refining of silver ore, typically obtained as a byproduct of other metal mining. Pure silver is then alloyed with copper to enhance its strength and durability. The alloy is melted and cast into forms like sheets or wires, which are shaped and fabricated into jewelry using techniques such as cutting, soldering, and polishing. Quality control measures ensure the finished pieces meet standards for purity and appearance, resulting in beautiful and wearable sterling silver jewelry.

Mining Process

Sterling silver begins its journey deep within the Earth's crust. Silver mining involves extracting ore that contains silver elements, using methods ranging from open-pit mining for surface deposits to more invasive underground mining techniques for deeper veins. Once the ore is mined, it undergoes a series of processes including crushing, grinding, flotation, and smelting, to extract pure silver.

Manufacturing Process

Turning raw silver into jewelry is an art that combines ancient techniques with modern technology. The process typically involves:

Melting and Alloying

Pure silver is melted and mixed with copper or other metals to create sterling silver.

Casting or Hand Fabrication

The molten silver is either cast into molds or handcrafted into desired shapes.

Annealing

The silver is heated and cooled to soften it, making it easier to shape.

Shaping and Finishing

Tools are used to form the silver into jewelry pieces, followed by sanding, polishing, and detailing to achieve a high finish.

Waterproofing and Rust Resistance

Waterproofing and rust resistance are crucial considerations for sterling silver jewelry to ensure its longevity and appearance. While sterling silver itself does not rust like iron or steel, it can tarnish over time due to exposure to moisture and air.

Waterproofing

Sterling silver is not inherently waterproof, but it can withstand exposure to moisture without damage if properly cared for. Avoiding prolonged contact with water can prevent tarnishing and corrosion. Special coatings can be applied to sterling silver jewelry to enhance its resistance to water and tarnish.

Rust

Silver, unlike iron, does not rust in the traditional sense. However, it can tarnish when exposed to sulfur compounds in the air, resulting in a surface layer of silver sulfide, which can be cleaned and polished off.

Sterling Silver at Claire Mae Company

Claire Mae Company takes pride in offering a range of exquisite sterling silver jewelry, embodying both the timeless appeal and modern design sensibilities. Our sterling silver collection includes:

Sterling Silver Necklaces

Elegant and versatile, perfect for layering or as statement pieces. Claire Mae Company offers two exquisite sterling silver necklaces.  Our white Howlite necklace and our black Tourmaline necklace.

Sterling Silver Bracelets

From delicate chains to bold cuffs, designed to accentuate the wrist with grace. Grace your wrist with our two popular offerings of sterling silver bracelets.  Try on our white Howlite bracelet or black Tourmaline bracelet to feel the benefits of these unique stones.

Sterling Silver Rings

Crafted for daily wear or special occasions, our rings marry durability with design.

Sterling Silver Earrings

From studs to dangles, our earrings cater to every style and preference. Claire Mae Company currently offerings great choices for sterling silver earrings.  Our white Howlite earrings and our black Tourmaline earrings are the perfect addition to any ensemble!

Each piece reflects our commitment to quality, durability, and ethical sourcing, ensuring that our customers receive jewelry that not only looks beautiful but also stands the test of time.

Strength and Durability of Sterling Silver

Sterling silver's strength comes from its alloy composition, particularly the addition of metals like copper. This makes it significantly more durable than pure silver, suitable for everyday wear and capable of lasting generations with proper care. The durability of sterling silver, coupled with its inherent beauty, makes it an excellent choice for both traditional and contemporary jewelry designs.

FAQ Section

Q: How do I care for my sterling silver jewelry to prevent tarnishing? A: Keep your sterling silver jewelry dry, store it in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight, and polish it regularly with a soft cloth. Using anti-tarnish strips and keeping your jewelry in airtight bags can also help.

Q: Can sterling silver jewelry be resized? A: Yes, one of the advantages of sterling silver is its malleability. Most sterling silver jewelry can be resized by a professional jeweler.

Q: How can I tell if my jewelry is genuine sterling silver? A: Genuine sterling silver jewelry will often be stamped with a "925" mark, indicating its silver purity. Additionally, reputable sellers like Claire Mae Company provide authenticity certificates for their jewelry.

Q: Is sterling silver hypoallergenic? A: Sterling silver is generally considered hypoallergenic, especially when alloyed with metals like copper. However, individuals with very sensitive skin should consult with their jeweler to ensure compatibility.

Q: Does Claire Mae Company offer custom sterling silver jewelry designs? A: Yes, we delight in bringing our customers' visions to life. Contact us to discuss custom designs that reflect your personal style and story.

Discovering the Essence of Claire Mae Company

Claire Mae Company stands as a beacon of craftsmanship, ethical practices, and innovation in the world of fine jewelry. With a steadfast commitment to quality and sustainability, Claire Mae Company has carved out a niche for itself, offering an exquisite collection of jewelry that caters to a diverse clientele seeking beauty, durability, and ethical sourcing in their adornments.

Our Philosophy

At the heart of Claire Mae Company is a philosophy that intertwines the timeless beauty of jewelry with the contemporary values of responsibility and integrity. We believe that every piece of jewelry tells a story, a narrative woven from the moment of its conception to when it finds a home with a cherished owner. Our mission is to make these stories as rich and positive as possible, not just through the aesthetics of our pieces but through the processes behind them.

Craftsmanship and Quality

Claire Mae Company prides itself on the unparalleled craftsmanship that goes into each piece of jewelry. From sterling silver to 18K gold-plated treasures, our artisans are skilled masters in their craft, employing both traditional techniques and modern technology to create pieces that are not only visually stunning but also of the highest quality. Attention to detail, passion for the art, and dedication to excellence are the hallmarks of our brand.

Ethical Sourcing and Sustainability

Understanding the impact of jewelry production on both people and the planet, Claire Mae Company is dedicated to ethical sourcing and sustainable practices. We carefully select our materials from responsible sources, ensuring that our products are not only beautiful but also contribute positively to the communities involved in their creation. From the mines to the marketplace, we strive for transparency, fairness, and environmental stewardship.

Our Collection

The Claire Mae Company collection is a testament to diversity and elegance, featuring a range of pieces that cater to various tastes and occasions. Whether you're drawn to the subtle grace of sterling silver or the warm glow of gold-plated jewelry, our collection offers something special for everyone. We're constantly updating our offerings to reflect the latest trends while staying true to the timeless appeal that defines our brand.

A Commitment to Our Customers

Above all, Claire Mae Company is committed to the satisfaction and joy of our customers. We understand the personal value that jewelry can hold, serving as symbols of love, milestones, and personal expression. Our team is dedicated to providing not just exceptional jewelry but also exceptional service, ensuring that every interaction with Claire Mae Company is as memorable and positive as the pieces we create.  We fully recommend looking into our jewelry care instructions to keep you pieces lasting for a lifetime!

Find Your Sterling Silver For Jewelry Piece Today

As Claire Mae Company looks to the future, we are excited to continue our journey in the world of fine beautiful jewelry, embracing new designs, materials, and technologies while staying true to our core values. We invite you to join us in this journey, to find pieces that resonate with your personal story, and to celebrate the beauty and artistry of fine jewelry with us. From our white Howlite jewelry, to black Tourmaline jewelry, Claire Mae Company ensures quality with sterling silver.  Shop our everyday jewelry collection now!