Silver is probably one of the most popular materials for jewelry. This could be because of the fact that it's the so-called middle ground between cheap and classy. It is not so flamboyant as gold, and yet it's not so shabby as bronze. There's something special about silver that makes it a wonderful choice of material for jewelry that we can wear everyday. However, when purchasing silver jewelry, you must have a bit of knowledge about its qualities. This is so you do not get duped about the quality of the jewelry you will buy.
Stamp of Authenticity
In accordance with the law, silver will have to be stamped with either 925 or "sterling". Basically, this means that the piece of jewelry you are buying is made of 92.5% silver, the other term for which is "sterling silver". If you're buying a necklace, then you should look at the clasp for this stamp. The same rule holds for pieces of jewelry with silver chains. If you're buying a ring or a bracelet, look for the stamp on the inside of the piece of jewelry.
The Acid Test
Since there are so many cheap fakes that have flooded the market, then you must be careful that you don't get duped. A vigilant move would be to require a nitric test before you purchase the piece of silver jewelry.
You can simply do this yourself. But to be safe, let your local jeweler do the test for you. To put it simply, certain areas of the piece are rubbed vigorously. Then a few drops of nitric acid are dropped on the area. For caution's sake, pick a part that is hidden. If the acid turns green, then it is a fraud and is only silver plated. If the liquid turns gray, then it is authentic.
Purchase only from a Reputable Seller
To be completely safe, however, just purchase your silver jewelry from a reputable source. Forget about bargains. Jewelry, true and good, are bound to be pricey. Don't fall for the fishy deals where people who come to you randomly have what they say is an exceptionally valuable piece that is on sale and affordable only for a short period of time. Just buy from a reputable source and save yourself the effort of finding out if you are getting your money's worth. - 29959
Stamp of Authenticity
In accordance with the law, silver will have to be stamped with either 925 or "sterling". Basically, this means that the piece of jewelry you are buying is made of 92.5% silver, the other term for which is "sterling silver". If you're buying a necklace, then you should look at the clasp for this stamp. The same rule holds for pieces of jewelry with silver chains. If you're buying a ring or a bracelet, look for the stamp on the inside of the piece of jewelry.
The Acid Test
Since there are so many cheap fakes that have flooded the market, then you must be careful that you don't get duped. A vigilant move would be to require a nitric test before you purchase the piece of silver jewelry.
You can simply do this yourself. But to be safe, let your local jeweler do the test for you. To put it simply, certain areas of the piece are rubbed vigorously. Then a few drops of nitric acid are dropped on the area. For caution's sake, pick a part that is hidden. If the acid turns green, then it is a fraud and is only silver plated. If the liquid turns gray, then it is authentic.
Purchase only from a Reputable Seller
To be completely safe, however, just purchase your silver jewelry from a reputable source. Forget about bargains. Jewelry, true and good, are bound to be pricey. Don't fall for the fishy deals where people who come to you randomly have what they say is an exceptionally valuable piece that is on sale and affordable only for a short period of time. Just buy from a reputable source and save yourself the effort of finding out if you are getting your money's worth. - 29959
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