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What is Sterling Silver?
Sterling Silver is an alloy metal, which means that while it must meet a minimal standard of Silver, it is allowed a mixture of other metals, with Copper being the most prevalent. Those metals include Germanium, Boron, Zinc, Platinum, and Silicon. These metals help to add strength to the Silver as well as to help keep it from tarnishing.
The minimum standard for American Sterling Silver is 925, which means that it must meet a ratio minimum of 92.5% Silver to 7.5% other metals. Fine Silver is 99.9% Silver; however, it is relatively soft, dents and scratches easily, which is why Sterling Silver is more popular for jewelry.
Be aware that there is a descriptor term in jewelry that applies to Silver colored or toned jewelry. It does not imply that the jewelry is Silver or Sterling Silver, just silver in color. Real Silver will have a 925 stamp or tag on the item.
History of Earrings
Earrings originated in ancient Asia and were once a by and large a male jewelry choice. For over 7000 years, Earrings have been a popular choice.
Ancient Egyptians wore earrings to show their social status and wealth. In Ancient Rome, only slaves wore earrings, and in Ancient Greece, prostitutes wore them to signify their profession. Later, In Greece and Rome, those who were wealthy wore earrings set with pearls and gemstones to exhibit their status.
In the middle ages, the Church banned pierced ears, and earrings became popular among pirates, thieves, and the poor. Soon after, boys whose fathers had been killed would wear an earring in one ear. The last remaining son would wear one in their right ear to show they were the last of their family and the only boy. Wearing earrings in both ears, boys would show that they were the remaining male heir and could not participate in the war to be able to continue their family line.
It became less and less fashionable for males to wear earrings and more popular for females to wear them as a fashion choice. In modern times, it’s now popular for both males and females to wear earrings, often multiples and in many styles.
Sterling Silver in History
Silver is a metal that is harder than Gold but is considered to be a Noble Metal because of the resistance of the metal to oxidation. Silver has been at the forefront of jewelry and coin money throughout history.
Historically, Silver has been equal, lesser, and even greater in value than Gold. About 2500 BC, Mesopotamians figured out how to extract Silver from Lead and began to use Silver for money. Rings and pure Silver by weight were used as currency.
Very little Silver exists from this time period due to the softness of pure Silver and the continued reusing of and melting down of items. Egyptians valued the exotic Silver. Greeks and Romans used silver coins for currency as Gold was considered a more valuable metal for jewelry. The Celtic Tribes used Silver exclusively for jewelry. During the Medieval Times, Vikings and Germans used Silver to make functional jewelry, such as brooches, buckles, and clasps to hold capes onto their shoulders.
The Healing Properties of Silver
Silver has been traditionally associated with healing. Silver is believed to have antibacterial properties and is associated with boosting immunity. Silver was used by ancient cultures to purify water to use in wounds. A Silver nitrate drop was developed by Dr. Carl Crede as an antiseptic for newborns.
Metaphysically, Silver is an amplifier, meaning that when mixed with gemstones, it increases and expands the power of the stones while retaining them in the jewelry piece.
Silver itself is of healing powers, loving, and patience. It increases the power of the psychic mind and the tranquility of spirit. Silver helps calm the mind, aids in preventing cold and flu, and represents unconditional love.
Alternatives to Sterling Silver
White Gold
White gold was created to imitate naturally white Platinum and is an alloy that contains 25% nickel and zinc and 75% gold. Eighteen-carat gold is about 75% pure gold. White Gold can be Rhodium plated and, therefore, can cost a bit more than yellow Gold.
Platinum
Platinum is a white, precious metal that is more valuable than Gold. It is a rare metal and is naturally white. A setting made with Platinum is best for setting gemstones as it’s harder than Gold, and it doesn’t tarnish as Silver does.
Titanium
Titanium is a good jewelry metal as it resists scratches and is resistant to bending. Its strength is good for more delicate gemstone settings as it’s a stronger metal than traditional metals. Titanium is a lustrous white metal and is considered a good jewelry metal.
Cobalt
Cobalt is a white metal that is a bright color close to Platinum. Its strength combines with durability to create a metal that is harder than most jewelry metals. It resists scratching and dulling down as well.
Tungsten
Tungsten carbide is virtually indestructible. It is scratch-proof and won’t ever dull. Tungsten coloration is more of a grey silver color than a bright white color but is a definite consideration when looking at Silver jewelry. Many men buy Tungsten rings as they prefer how sturdy and durable even in harsh conditions they are.
Top Picks for Sterling Silver Earrings
Studs
Bead Ball Stud Earrings in Sterling Silver (10mm)
Simple is always best, and these 10mm Sterling Silver ball studs are beautiful, basic earrings that are perfect for every day and every occasion. A classic style in an easy wear earring; these balls accentuate every outfit.
Amazon Essentials Plated Sterling Silver Twisted Love Knot Stud Earrings
These Love Knot twisted earrings are just right for wearing at the office. While they are a classic style, the twist does show off a bit of sparkle. This knot set is delicate, and you must be careful not to put too much pressure on the knot as it’s a single strand of metal and can miss-shape if handled roughly.
2 Pair Sterling Silver Stud Earrings Cross Circle(XO); Moon Star; Two & Three Bead Ball for Teenager Girls Women Men
This set of star and moon studs is cute. You can wear them as a single set or mix and match them. They are also cute for single-hole wear if you have upper cartilage or an odd earring space. Simple, clean lines keep the shape easily recognizable.
Leaf Stud Earrings in Sterling Silver
Nature is always in fashion. These leaf studs drape beautifully along your earlobe. Twist them to the side or allow them to dangle a bit off your earlobe. The small leaves give interest without being attention-grabbing. A sweet little set of earrings for a modest look.
Drop Earrings
Handmade Sterling Silver Dangle Earrings, “Tropical Pineapple”
These filigree earrings feature a pineapple at the bottom of the drop. Swirling tendrils drift upwards to the top of the drop, and a sturdy loop at the point of the earrings holds onto the Fish Hook backing and will swing gently with body movement, picking up the light to glitter in your ears.
Sterling Silver Sea Life Drop Earrings
This open circle design depicts seashells and sea creatures in the center of the earring. The backings are lever back to clasp onto your ear in a more secure fashion. A seahorse, a starfish, and a clamshell are set in the circle with a bit of coral, such a pretty pair of unusual earrings.
Sterling Silver Layered Open Teardrop Earrings
These trio open teardrop loops are textured and polished to shine and glint in the light. As you move, the three loops dangle from a French Wire backing. These earrings are trendy and would look good with any outfit, day or night.
Dangle
Dangle Earrings Sterling Silver
These Sterling Silver earrings feature tiny S shapes that dangle from a center rope. Each piece of Silver will glint and glimmer as you move. They are reminiscent of feather earrings and hang about halfway down your neck. These pretty dangles are definitely a must for a night on the town.
Made in Italy Diamond-Cut Leaf Threader Earrings in Sterling Silver
These threader earrings push right through your earlobe and hang in the front and back of your ear. The little leaf design moves with you and dangles from the chain. The leaf is polished to sparkle in the light, and the chain will allow the leaves free movement from your ear. Pretty, delicate earrings that work with your trendy style.
Tiffany HardWear Triple Drop Earrings
A trio of Sterling Silver balls dangles from a chain in this wrap-around style. The post backing chain wraps all the way to the front of the earring, magically dangling the balls from your ear lobe. The chain attaches to the butterfly backing and keeps the illusion in place. These fashion earrings are a sure stand-out accessory.
Hoops
Celtic Knot Design Hoop Earrings, 925 Sterling Silver Earrings, Hoop Earrings, Celtic Earrings, Plain Silver Earrings, Handmade Earrings
The cutwork on these drop earrings is beautiful. The hoop is a delicate lace detailing with a Celtic design, and the polished Silver will give off plenty of glitz and shine. They have a wire clasp closure to ensure that the earring stays in place on your ear. The cutwork on the earring also guarantees that the earring will be light and not pull heavily on your earlobe.
Jeulia Twist Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings
Twisting sparkle, the rows of gems will sparkle in candlelight, perfect for your dinner date. Rows and rows of clear gems will sparkle, especially since the rows are twisted and lined with a solid wire of Sterling Silver. The medium hoop sizing allows the earring not to be too heavy but also is a more modest look.
Alex and Ani Medium Hoop Earrings
Sweet, simple design, these medium Sterling Silver hoops are timeless. The classic hoop earring that never goes out of style. Large enough to catch attention but delicate enough to wear to work, these hoops are a must for your jewelry style.
With Gemstones
Amazon Collection Sterling Silver Cubic Zirconia Round-Cut Halo Drop Leverback Earrings (3 cttw)
These cushion shape drop earrings are stunning. The lever backing ensures the earring stays on securely, and the round center gem will give you bold sparkle. The halo of smaller cubic zirconias around the center gem will give even more sparkle to this pair of pretty earrings.
Ross-Simons Marquise Kingman Turquoise Drop Earrings in Sterling Silver
Stunning blue marquise cut turquoise is cradled in these shaped earrings. The Sterling Silver surrounds the brilliant colors standing out in the turquoise. These simple wire backings put no pressure on the back of your ear. These pretty, colorful earrings are sure to get you compliments.
FAQs
Question: Does sterling silver turn your finger green?
Answer: Your finger only turns green because of a reaction between your skin and the metal; Sterling SIlver is 92.5% silver. If your metal has a high amount of Copper, it will turn your finger green. Usually, Sterling has a mixed amount of metals, including Copper included in it.
Question: What are the best earrings for sensitive ears?
Answer: Titanium is the best metal for highly sensitive skin. Those in need of hypoallergenic metals are usually sensitive to nickel in any other metals. Silver, Platinum, and Gold are also good choices for hypoallergenic jewelry.
Question: Is White Gold or Platinum better?
Answer: Both metals are equally durable. White Gold scratches less than Platinum and is harder. Platinum is stiffer and bends less than White Gold. Both are equally better than Yellow Gold and are preferable for daily wear.
Question: Can you wear sterling silver every day?
Answer: Sterling Silver is perfectly fine to wear daily, although it will scratch, dent, or tarnish if mistreated. Tarnish is easily cleaned off with homemade solutions.
Question: Is Tungsten better than Gold?
Answer: Tungsten carbide is stronger than both gold and silver medals combined. Tungsten is the second strongest material next to diamonds and is impact resistant which makes it a good material for everyday wear of jewelry.
Question: Does sterling silver turn your finger green?
Answer: Your finger only turns green because of a reaction between your skin and the metal; Sterling SIlver is 92.5% silver. If your metal has a high amount of Copper, it will turn your finger green. Usually, Sterling has a mixed amount of metals, including Copper included in it.
Question: What are the best earrings for sensitive ears?
Answer: Titanium is the best metal for highly sensitive skin. Those in need of hypoallergenic metals are usually sensitive to nickel in any other metals. Silver, Platinum, and Gold are also good choices for hypoallergenic jewelry.
Question: Is White Gold or Platinum better?
Answer: Both metals are equally durable. White Gold scratches less than Platinum and is harder. Platinum is stiffer and bends less than White Gold. Both are equally better than Yellow Gold and are preferable for daily wear.
Question: Can you wear sterling silver every day?
Answer: Sterling Silver is perfectly fine to wear daily, although it will scratch, dent, or tarnish if mistreated. Tarnish is easily cleaned off with homemade solutions.
Question: Is Tungsten better than Gold?
Answer: Tungsten carbide is stronger than both gold and silver medals combined. Tungsten is the second strongest material next to diamonds and is impact resistant which makes it a good material for everyday wear of jewelry.
Conclusion
Sterling Silver? I say, YES! There just isn’t a bad choice among these earring choices, or even in hundreds of choices. Classic, stylish, modern, and chic, Sterling Silver is the cool metal color to pick.
A lot of people don’t like the look of Gold with their skin, but Sterling Silver will never be a bad choice. Inexpensive, you can buy quality pieces that will last you forever.
Cleaning is easy and environmentally friendly, not caustic or irritating, and readily available home ingredients can make a cleaning solution that works quickly.
Match your pieces with a design that works for you and even includes precious gems. You can pick and choose multiple pieces for a low cost. I own many Sterling Silver items, shower with them on, wear them daily, and am absolutely in love with them.
Further Read:
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