All About Sterling Silver: A Maker’s Guide

Sterling silver is a staple in many jewelry maker’s craft-boxes, and craft stores never seem to be in short stock – but exactly is it? Sterling silver is actually an alloy of pure silver – containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% of either copper, iron, or steel. This makes it far superior to silver-plated jewelry because the silver won’t rub off. Benefits of Sterling Silver There are many benefits to using sterling silver in jewelry. Pure silver is a soft metal that can bend and scratch easily. By alloying it with another metal, you improve the strength of the piece, allowing it to maintain its shape and resist damage. It is also less expensive, so you can make jewelry that is more affordable for your customers. Drawbacks One of the few drawbacks when using sterling silver is that it can tarnish. Silver is sensitive to water and air, which can cause it to darken. If you’re going for a rustic or boho-chic look, however, this can be a bonus! Regularly wiping the jewelry down w...