How to Care For Your Sterling Silver Jewelry

Nothing can quite beat the sheer elegance of sterling silver. The brilliance of silver jewelry appeals to almost every person of any age, even regardless of gender. However, it also possesses that sublime sophistication that gold jewelry always seems to overdo.

If you seem to disagree with this simple statement, think of a person – any person, for that matter – wearing a load of just sterling silver jewelry. Let’s deck that person in a few sterling silver earrings. Then let’s try placing silver ropes around that person’s neck. We can add a couple of silver rings to go along. And for good measure, we will even throw in one or two silver toe rings. And what do you have? You see nothing more but everyday wear. Now, picture that same person wearing the same exact jewelry, only this time, turn every piece that we imagined into gold. Now what do you have? You see a person imitating a fully lit Christmas tree.

We are exaggerating, of course. Nonetheless, this fully illustrates the sublime sophistication which is found probably only in sterling silver jewelry. In fact, if you want, you can mix and match sterling silver jewelry with any other gem or mineral and it will still look pretty chic. Only few kinds of jewelry can achieve this kind of versatility while keeping a sort of utter sophistication and elegance. Cubic zirconia jewelry or CZ jewelry, particularly CZ rings and CZ earrings are often paired with silver. And you guessed it; this combination always manages to look wonderful.

However, in order to maintain that brilliance, you should primarily know how to give your sterling silver jewelry the proper attention it needs. After all, how will you be able to enjoy your sterling silver jewelry if it is not in its ultimately best condition? The first thing that you should keep in mind is that you need to treat your silver exactly as it is worth. You certainly would not wear your best dress to do menial chores around the house or do harsh corrosive applications, now would you? You would want to treat your sterling silver jewelry basically the same way. It would be best if you could shield your jewelry from scratching or from harmful substances (like acids, bleaches, paint, etc.). The best option is probably to take your sterling silver jewelry off while in contact with these harmful substances.
Another thing that you should keep in mind is that an occasional cleaning with silver-safe jewelry cleaners could do you some good as well. Over time, a build up or residue from months (even years) of use can cause silver to tarnish and look aged (somewhat gray and yellow in discoloration.). With that said, you might want to schedule a habitual cleaning to keep your jewelry as clean as possible all the time. However, you should be careful when cleaning your sterling silver. This is especially if it is matched with other gemstones or minerals. Sterling silver jewelry indeed has an unparalleled sophistication and elegance. However, you should always maintain your jewelry to always keep it at its best.

Sterling Silver Hoop Earrings

Sterling silver hoop earrings have been around for what seems like forever--generation after generation has donned the circular ornaments to show style, wealth, and personal flair. Jewelry is a powerful statement and can say a great deal about a person's character, personality, and values. Even God described His favor and esteem for the Israelites in terms of beautiful jewelry: "And I put a jewel on thy forehead, and earrings in thine ears, and a beautiful crown upon thine head (Ezekiel 16:12). Unfortunately, God's people's outward adornment did not always agree with the state of their character; still, jewelry can tell all about its wearer by design, extravagance, and size.

Traditional large silver hoop earrings, for example, send a definite message: their wearer is bold, vibrant, and happy to be visible. A woman sporting this kind of jewelry is not trying to blend into the crowd or pass by without notice; she wants to be seen and remembered. A girl with smaller, more detailed earrings is probably of a different character: she doesn't want to be the center of attention, but she does want to be noticed by people with the right taste and to quietly, subtly express her own unique personality. A woman's earrings may say that she is funky and eccentric, classy and sophisticated, or low-maintenance and a lot of fun. Sterling silver hoop earrings come in so many shapes and sizes that they are a perfect jewelry choice for any girl, offering ornamentation both for every day wear and special occasions.

A first important question is "Why this kind of jewelry?" Why should a shopper choose large silver hoop earrings over others like gold and platinum, which are equally beautiful? One reason, of course, is cost--it is much cheaper than yellow and white gold. Another incentive, however, is that sterling silver is a strong, durable material that is highly functional and lasting, which is why manufacturers use it for many every day items like kitchen wear, medical tools, and musical instruments. Most households have sterling silver dining utensils in their kitchens because they are long-lasting and highly resistant to scratching and rusting.

Sterling silver is made by combining pure silver, a soft, easily damaged material, with another alloy, usually copper, in order to give it strength and durability; this alloy generally contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. While copper is what gives this material strength, it is also the cause of corrosion and tarnishing; silver itself is not reactive, but its copper is, causing tarnishing with time and wear. Therefore, shoppers should plan to buy a good cleaner for their sterling silver hoop earrings, which can be purchased at jewelry stores, hardware stores, and often even at regular department stores. Protecting this material from harsh chemicals like bleach and chlorine is important, so wearers should always remember to take off their earrings before jumping into a swimming pool. For extra protection, jewelers suggest storing this kind of jewelry in a location where it will not come into contact with other jewelry, either by putting it in a separate compartment or wrapping it in cloth.

A set of large silver hoop earrings may be the first item that comes to mind when one thinks of hoops, but there are so many other options! When browsing online or in a store, shoppers will find a dazzling assortment of hoops, varying dramatically both in price and style. There are the usual, simple department store hoops for $35 and the $2000 diamond pair-- and, thankfully, a great deal in between. The goal is to find a reasonably priced, high-quality pair that will last a long time, work with a variety of outfits, and never go out of style. These can be worn with jeans for dinner and a movie, with a nice dress or pants suit for work or dress-up occasions, or sometimes even with a T-shirt and hat on a day at the park.

Sterling silver hoop earrings are versatile, functional, and fun; that's why every woman needs a pair. However, women looking for hoops to match specific outfits will also find an abundance of choices to work with any ensemble or look. There are petites, Tiffany style, bangles, cushions, Designer style, and, of course, JLo inspired hoops. Hoops may be oval, continuous, or even wavy; may be plain or accented with gemstones or diamonds; may even have one's name in script running through the center; there are hoops with pearl drops, with turquoise studs, with floral filigree, with delicately woven hearts; hoops with diamond baguettes, with sapphires, with emeralds. Charm hoops are a unique option; in this category shoppers will find earrings with dangling stars or hearts or music notes--plenty of charms to express any personality.

Large silver hoop earrings may not be a good option for every woman, but shoppers are sure to find a pair of hoops that works for them. If the buyer is hoping to find inexpensive, simple sterling silver hoop earrings for every-day wear, she should check local department stores for special sales and browse wholesale online jewelry websites. One word of caution: although it may be cheap, buyers should always avoid plating, which is sure to rub off, giving the jewelry a dull, cheap appearance. Think quality first and foremost. Women hoping to find hoops that are a little fancier and more suited for specific outfits should look both in traditional jewelry stores and online stores specializing in sterling jewelry, as these are the most likely places to find high value earrings that will continue to be beautiful and fashionable for many years to come.

Sterling Silver Gemstone Jewelry

The little girls stared at the sterling silver gemstone jewelry in the case at the store. The small lights perfectly positioned within the showcase made the fifty dollar necklaces jump with so much life, it was as if they cost five thousand dollars. The young girls began to be whisked away in their imaginations as they talked back and forth about how they would like wear such glorious necklaces on their wedding day when all eyes would be just on them for a few hours. The store clerk wore a bemused smile as she also remembered a time when she often stared at wholesale silver gemstone jewelry in her grandfather's small trading post in the southwest. She remembered not the bright lights of an expensive showcase, but rather the pride in her grandfather's eyes as he pulled out the cases of sterling silver gemstone jewelry from his small safe in the back of his store. Her grandfather had made every piece by hand, and when each piece was sold, he asked the customers where they were from, so that he could envision where the handiwork was headed.

The term sterling silver is a term to describe the precious metal that has been mixed with copper in a 92.5/7.5 ratio. Copper is the one metal that doesn't harm the color of this precious metal in that proportion, which is needed to give the metal a degree of hardness. The precious metal that is pure is quite soft and malleable, and can be damaged very easily, so for certain jewelry pieces, copper is employed for longevity. Adding copper to this precious metal in that proportion does not affect the price of gemstone pieces. Instead, this precious metal jewelry is priced by the intricacy of design and quality of the craftsmanship. The popularity of this precious metal appeared to be at its height from 1870 to 1920 when the metal appeared in everything from jewelry to flatware. Since the Victorian period dictated that there should be a separate fork, spoon and knife for every course, societal dictates did not call expectations unreasonable to find three or four or more of the same utensil at every place setting.

The term silver plating ought to be a term meaning "run and hide from anything with that moniker." If a well meaning person gives you a silver coated fishing pole because that person thinks you have everything, thank them and smile, but soon it will be black. Plated fashion accessories with this metal is a recipe for disaster, because the precious metal will soon show its true colors, and it won't be the gray we are used to seeing. So if there is a thirteen year old boy reading this blog that wants to give a first girlfriend a piece that is plated with this precious metal, don't do it! Wait till you are eighteen, then give her something in a sterling silver gemstone piece, or find some wholesale silver gemstone jewelry. One will be very surprised how much things change in five years. "In the beginning was the Word and the Word was with God and the Word was God." (John 1:1)

This precious metal has always been the metal for the common man. It is very common and therefore the cost is very reasonable. A trip online to price wholesale silver gemstone jewelry will find the surfer discovering gemstone pieces for as little as four dollars from a wholesale outlet. From more high end retailers, beautiful jewelry with gemstones from all over the world including amethyst, topaz, larimer, pearl, jasper, garnet and citrine and almost twenty other gemstones. These delicately made pieces are much pricier, but far more beautiful than the wholesale sterling silver gemstone jewelry mentioned earlier. Again, the price of sterling silver doesn't vary, because the real thing is always advertised as true 92.5, or ninety two and a half silver, seven and a half percent copper. It is the intricate work, the details and the craftsmanship that makes the price of fashion pieces made from this precious metal rise.

Wholesale silver gemstone jewelry comes from a number of countries around the world, including Spain, Italy and the United States, but the greatest supplier is the country of Thailand. There are a number of websites originating in Thailand that offer beautiful sterling silver gemstone jewelry at very reasonable prices, as well as American websites with competitive pricing also. There are also many sites that are helpful in ways to clean precious metal jewelry, but often differ in the advice give. Some recommend the commercial metal cleaners, while others advice to use only something like baking soda. With gemstones as part of the items being cleaned, it might be more advised to stay with something like baking soda.

Our young girls continued to stare at the pieces in the case. From across the store, the grandmother who had brought them watched as a spectator might carefully watch the movement of athletes on a field. One of the great joys of this woman's life was observing the stages of the granddaughters' life unfold. She was careful not to disturb the wondrous moment and at the very last moment, came up behind the two and placed a hand on each of their shoulders. The girls pointed out the necklaces and told the woman of their dreams. The grandma did the magical thing and bought a necklace for each of the girls, but said she would keep the fashion pieces at her house until they were old enough to take care of their possessions. When they arrived back home, she made the young ones sit down and write about the new items they now owned.

Sixteen years later, when both girls were engaged, the now aged woman pulled out the little box in which each necklace had been kept. Included in the box, folded up tightly were the letters the girls had written. The stories told of dreams in a future time now here. The girls wept at the amazing memory both had forgotten. Sterling silver gemstone jewelry was pinned to two wedding dresses that may have seemed out of place, but very much belonged.

The Fashion of Sterling Silver Jewelry

The Fashion of Sterling Silver Jewelry

Sterling silver jewelry is not a new concept and has been around for quite some time now. If we go into the annals of history, we would realize that sterling silver jewelry has been in vogue ever since man learnt to distinguish precious stones from normal ordinary ones. As of now, this elegant piece of authentic jewelry is much in demand and is often considered a fashion statement. I am not saying that it has reached an iconic status; nonetheless, it is definitely an epitome of luxury for the common man.

Perfect for the everyday use

Sterling silver jewelry is made from sterling silver which is a blend of silver and other alloys. The reason why we blend or mix silver with another alloy is the fact that silver is a weak metal and cannot withstand the adversities of everyday wear. At the same time, if we mix it with another metal which is tough and rugged, it becomes worthy for everyday use. Not only is it tough, it is also wearable and capable of withstanding the adversities of nature.

Fit to be worn in the office

Sterling silver jewelry is quite good to look at and is made elegant by its unique shape and design. A typical silver sterling necklace is quite appropriate to be worn at office or any formal gathering. It looks classy, chic, stylish and unique. At the same time, it has the ability to make you look professional. So, a necklace, an earring or a bracelet-all three and many more from the exclusive range of sterling silver are picture perfect to make you appear formal and professional.

Picture perfect for an evening cocktail party

What would happen if you had an important occasion drawing closer and no jewelry to wear? I am sure, like any other, you would be flabbergasted. You would be running from pillar to post, searching for a necklace or an elegant earring. In such a scenario, you would, in ordinary circumstances, spend a fortune in trying to get the best at a sizable cost. Here, you should always try and go in for the authentic collection from the sterling silver jewelry which is both, inexpensive and good to look at. A necklace from sterling silver can be worn to any cocktail party and is said to work wonders to all informal occasion. So gear up and choose the right piece.

A must have for the youth

All those who care for a funky piece of jewelry need to understand that the authentic collection from sterling silver jewelry is all set to rock even the most reserved of shoppers. The range is truly authentic and the shapes are in sync with the latest designs and styles. So if you are on the lookout for a hoop-earring or a stylish stud, the authentic collection from silver sterling would have a choice to suit your need. You can look good, appear casual and remain funky by wearing an elegant piece of jewelry from the elite silver sterling collection.

Silver Cross Jewelry

Quality sterling silver jewelry can be found online through many wholesale and retail stores that offer the latest in designer fashion accessories. From silver cross jewelry to customized pieces, the precious, white metal continues to fascinate young and old with its lustrous charm. The most affordable of all the precious metals, silver is known for its age old use and recurrent popularity among consumers. Silver tends to ride the crest of the trend wave throughout the centuries unlike the classic trend of yellow gold. The 20th century has seen a revival in its use and consumers of all ages enjoy wearing the precious metal in many forms and designs.

One of the current trends in designer items is fashion accessories that display the cross. Silver cross jewelry that presents the religious icon is not particularly due to an escalated interest in legitimate religious matters. It seems to be part of a gothic, satirical look at religion that is exposed by current designers. "That the trial of your faith, being much more precious than of gold that perisheth, though it be tried with fire, might be found unto praise and honor and glory at the appearing of Jesus Christ." (1 Peter 1:7) A fashion runway is likely to host at least one model during a fashion show that is wearing some form of the cross. Whether it is in beads, metal, wood or plastic, the icon is very likely to be found in either earrings or medallions. There are many shapes that are designed such as the Russian or Roman cross forms.

Runways are not the only place that cross fashion items are found. Television shows, Hollywood movies and other fashion stages can all be found host to someone sporting the cross in some form. The icon has been developed into a fashion symbol for the cultural elite as well as the sub cultural groups. The interesting twist to silver cross jewelry is that many who wear the symbol openly reject its meaning. Gone are the days that only religious people wore the symbol as a declaration of faith and practice. Secular designers have perhaps added a cynical note to the symbol by encouraging its popularity among a largely irreligious consumer group.

There are, of course, practical reasons for the appeal of white metal accessories no matter the particular shape or figure it offers. Quality sterling silver jewelry is less expensive that the other precious metals and offers a purchase opportunity for just about anyone. Price ranges can vary greatly depending on the silversmithing procedures and any inlaid or stone settings that are added. Mass produced pieces tend to be cheaper because of the volume sold to consumers and the cost incurred at production. Customized pieces are generally more expensive because they are produced by artisans and silversmiths who make unique items that are not reproduced.

When a consumer purchases a customized piece of jewelry, he or she can sometimes even receive a certificate of authenticity that the product is the only one of its kind. Many buyers who appreciate the uniqueness of handmade pieces are willing to pay more for these types of specialty items. Items made from this precious metal are still relatively cheaper than other metals such as platinum or gold. Another practical reason for elevated consumer interest, is the fact that this metal is lighter than gold. This metal weighs about half as much as yellow or white gold. Silver is also more malleable than gold which has allowed more creativity in design. For centuries artisans all over the world have used it to create quality sterling silver jewelry that reflects the various cultural overtones of each generation. Silversmiths can easily work with it and can more easily include stones and gems since it is softer.

This metal is also favorably worn because its qualities tends to stay less tarnished with wear. While some plated metals may tarnish with use, this metal tends to stay brighter when exposed to friction by daily use. That is why the metal gets easily tarnished when sitting in a box for years. There is one thing to always check before purchasing any piece of silver cross jewelry or other design. Make sure that the metal in any piece does not contain other metal properties such as nickel. Nickel overlaid with silver will corrode very easily and will not prove to be an item to keep for generations. Only quality sterling silver jewelry that is 925 grade should be considered for purchase.

A 925 grade contains some copper which strengthens the soft qualities of the metal while not lessening the superior quality of the metal. This combination is 75 parts copper and 925 parts silver and is considered the best form of the metal for fashion accessories such as rings, necklaces, bracelets, cuff links, pins, and watches. Before purchasing any item, inquire as to the sterling quality of the piece that should be backed by a guarantee. This will insure that any purchase is a piece of quality jewelry that can be worn and enjoyed for a lifetime. Heirloom pieces can be passed down for generations while still retaining the fine look and wearability that something like silver cross jewelry can provide. There are many online sources that offer extensive selections of fine pieces that will fit everyone's budget. Check out the prices, quality, designs and guarantees for the best piece to add to a personal, fashion collection.

Silver Jewelry Charm

Gold charm jewelry has been around since the superstitious days of Queen Cleopatra of the Nile or the covert era of the Roman Christians. Used for everything including the superstition of warding off evil spirits, silver jewelry charm accessories have entranced the general public of many bygone eras as well as today's fashion conscious consumer. Charms have existed since the early days of Egyptian royalty and have evolved over time to find a place in successive world wide generations as its popularity spread throughout Europe, Asia and the Americas. Today, Italy is at the forefront of the trendy piece of fashion accessory that no longer is used to ward of spirits but is produced to entice customers who have high style in mind.

Personal accessories that adorned many Egyptian Pharaohs and the wealthy elite displayed various charms. Originally used by many common folk to bring good or alternatively ward off evil, gold charm jewelry evolved from setting basic stones and semi precious gems into fancy, elaborate items. Charms were also used to show what status they had accomplished in this life by what type of elaborate settings or gemstones were used. Since the Egyptians rarely lived past their 40's, a heavy emphasis was placed on their place in the after life and attempt to control their fate through physical preparations was believed necessary. Charms were thought to be one such object that could be used to help the gods find them and take them to the proper place in life after death.

Rome was another place where this fashion accessory was more than just a necklace or a bracelet to the wearer. During the persecution of the Christians, many Christians would wear a silver jewelry charm piece in order to identify themselves. A 'fish' or ichthys was worn around their necks under clothing so that it could be pulled out anytime in order to show fellow Christians who they were. Wearing these charms became a practical item for many as Christians were careful in identifying themselves openly to the hostile Roman citizenry. "And in nothing terrified by your adversaries: which is to them an evident token of perdition, but to you of salvation, and that of God. For unto you it is given in the behalf of Christ, not only to believe on him, but also to suffer for his sake." (Philippians 1:28-29)

Charms were also used by Jewish scholars to encapsulate a small piece of paper within that had a part of the Jewish law written on it. From the earliest of its uses, charms had more of a practical use than an aesthetic use for many of its wearers. During the medieval era, many nobility as well as pheasants wore some form of gold charm jewelry or plainly made charms to help cast or break spells and supernatural powers that were believed to be affected by it. Others wore specially made charms to show a family heritage and position in life. It is said that during the later eras, interest in charms diminished because of the broader knowledge that was acquired through books that dispelled many superstitious notions. This personal decoration is not seen to become popular again in history until Queen Victoria revived it with her own special version of flamboyant accessories that caught on with the general public.

Queen Victoria, known for her different moods and her personal reflections of it in her jewelry, added charms to her collection. The charms were totally aesthetic in purpose and grew into a widely cherished item in the Victorian era. Pieces can be found today that reflect the style and trends of the day in silver jewelry charm accessories. No longer were charms reflective of either a superstitious or practical mindset, but became a piece of prized accessory in many women's jewelry boxes. Fine pieces of necklaces, bracelets and pins were part of the commonplace selection that was available in the Victorian era. Since that time, history recounts several swings in consumer interest in gold charm jewelry. Post World War II created a mood for special charms that could be given for remembrances of teen birthdays, love interests and for just about any occasion.

Many women carried their sweethearts picture in a small necklace or added a special charm to their bracelet in remembrance of a holiday together. A low ebb occurred in the demand for silver jewelry charm items throughout subsequent years, until another revival of interest in them occurred almost in conjunction with the preference for silver accessories of the last few years. The most notable influence on the charms as a major fashion accessory has been in Italy where famous designers have displayed modern, sleek charms in precious metals. Bracelets can be found that have links and interchangeable images that are in high demand throughout the world market among young and old alike. Some of the most popular charms that can be added to any linked bracelet or necklace piece are those associated with relationships or country loyalty. The American flag has seen a major surge in purchase for US consumers, but the heart symbol continues to be in demand world wide as the charm of choice for just about everyone.

Fashion Sterling Silver Jewelry

Fashion sterling silver jewelry looks great on anyone and is a wonderful way to accessorize wardrobes with the latest styles and designs. Silver jewelry is popular in the Celtic tradition, and the popularity has translated all over the world in the form of hearts, bracelets, charms, necklaces and rings. Almost any style and design can be obtained that will satisfy even the most discriminating buyer. Fashion sterling silver jewelry looks fabulous against tanned and dark skin, but equally mesmerizing on all hues. Sweethearts will appreciate receiving gifts of filigree silver heart earrings or bracelets with woven designs that look elegant for both casual and formal occasions.

Little girls will enjoy getting charm bracelets with silver and pink hearts interspersed among each other, or rings with initials in them. Charms can be interchanged depending on the mood of the wearer with any theme one can desire, whether patriotic, romantic or playful. For example, a little looking will reveal charms shaped like sandals, hats, shoes, hearts, stars, animals, and depicting holiday themes, etc. The list is almost infinite! Moms would love to get charm bracelets with "Mom" on a heart. Absolutely stunning necklace designs can be purchased with diamonds, pearls and other precious stones inlaid into the sterling silver.

There is a wide assortment of Christian silver in the form of crosses, fishes (Icthuses) and more that anyone would be glad to receive. Wholesale fashion jewelry is available anywhere and for any occasion or taste. For example, viewing some websites on wholesale jewelry, a person will come across simulated diamonds or cubic zirconium inlaid into precious metals shaped like alphabet letters; there are zirconium rings, pendants, necklaces and bracelets and pieces made of all types of precious and semi-precious stones and metals. There are even bracelets made of bright colored acrylics! This may remind some of the 1960's when colors in fashion were bright and bold.

When shopping for wholesale fashion jewelry and the buyer has quality in mind, then be sure to do a little reading up on the manufacturing process. This way no seller can try to pass off a piece of junk as authentic fashion sterling silver jewelry. Some folks may not know that silver must be mixed with another metal in order to be strong enough to form into rings, bracelets, etc. Most sterling silver jewelry has about 7% copper mixed in to make the piece stronger. Be sure to ask when purchasing, to find out if the piece has a high percentage of silver content before buying. If a bracelet or other piece is purchased and worn for a while, and the outer layer begins to flake off, then the bracelet was only silver coated and the bulk of the bracelet was junk metal. This is what anyone should avoid.

If the cell phone is a constant companion, and it is for many people these days, then there are cases made with rhinestones, cubic zirconium and other precious metals. Whoever would have thought this would come about? These cases come in pink, blue, red or any color of the rainbow. There are also pieces for attaching to cell phones to carry them about that look quite expensive, but is really wholesale fashion jewelry. These are referred to as charms, similar to charms on bracelets.

A lesser worn piece of jewelry is the brooch. Brooches used to be worn quite often by ladies before and just after the turn of the 20th century. Brooches are made of cut glass of many colors and these days, are made of glass and acrylic. The shapes often follow old designs, usually in the shape of flowers or stars. "I will greatly rejoice in the Lord, my soul shall be joyful in my God; for he hath clothed me with the garments of salvation, he hath covered me with the robe of righteousness, as a bridegroom decketh himself with ornaments, and as a bride adorneth herself with her jewels" (Isaiah 61:10 KJV).

Jewelry can be worn not only for beauty, but to make a statement. People of various faiths enjoy wearing religious jewelry to show others identification with a certain religion or groups. Quotes and slogans are often imprinted on bracelets, and artsy shapes are hung on necklaces. High school students may have the name of the school on a necklace or bracelet. Charities many times create bracelets or rings with the charity's emblem on them, and give these away when donations are made. If a teen is active in a sport or professional school, then emblems representing those activities are popular. For example, young girls who take ballet would enjoy Pointe shoes on ear rings and bracelets and those involved in skating or basketball may have charms shaped like skates and basketballs.

Of course there are items for more practical use in the realm of wholesale fashion jewelry. Those items would be money clips, glasses holders and chains, cufflinks, book marks, pins, watches or belt buckles. Many of these items would be suitable gifts for men and boys, especially if interest leans towards things western. There are key chains, bracelets and pendants with arrow heads, horse heads, steer heads etc. that make bold statements and look great against leather or denim. Horseshoes and necklaces with a Texas shaped charm on them can make great Christmas gifts for friends living in the south. Young ladies involved in beauty pageants long to get the coveted tiara made of simulated gemstones that sparkles under those bright lights on stage. There is nothing prettier than a tiara sitting on the head of the happiest girl in the whole world! Finding just the right fashion sterling silver jewelry and wholesale fashion jewelry can make that little girl's dream finally come true.

.999 Fine Silver Jewelry

Custom silver jewelry includes pieces that are created specifically for a person from this precious metal. This has become increasingly popular in the last decade, gracing the necks, arms, ears, and fingers of men and women around the world. The pure form of this metal is considered to be precious. There are varying degrees of precious metals, and when shopping for custom pieces, buyers should be aware of what makes a piece high quality and how to know the content of precious metal used in the piece. There are reasons that some pieces may be .999 fine silver jewelry and why other pieces are considered quality at a .925 content.

Finding pieces of the utmost quality is often important for connoisseurs of precious metals and jewels. .999 fine silver jewelry is considered to be pure, however it is soft, and used for pliable purposes, such as wrapping around a stone, or for bendable wire. This would be much too soft for wearing as a ring or bracelet, with exposure to heavy wear and tear. The same is true of 24K gold pieces of jewelry as well. Gold and silver in their purest forms are soft and not practical for daily use. To make custom silver jewelry or gold custom pieces more durable, the metals are alloyed with other metals that make the piece more practical and durable. Also, the more sturdy the metal, the safer the precious gem that the mounting holds. There are many reasons that the pure levels of these precious metals are alloyed with other metals, but the beautiful results are exquisite.

When buying custom pieces in gold or other metals, a person will want to look for the hallmark located on the piece before purchasing. A hallmark is the marking used to indicate the quantity of gold in a specific piece. Over the years, the laws of hallmarking jewelry have evolved, but most fine artists and designers mark their custom silver jewelry as a courtesy to their customers. The hallmarks are often quite small and will require the use of reading glasses or a magnifying glass. There are special optical tools used in jewelry design, and those collecting fine or antique pieces may want to invest in this tool. Hallmarks are commonly found near the clasps of necklaces and bracelets, and the inside and underside of a ring.

The hallmark placed on a custom piece is commonly marked "SS" for sterling silver. For a custom piece to be considered sterling, it must have a .924 content of pure metal. As hallmarking evolved and changed from one country to another, a hallmark can be a revealing source as to where a custom silver jewelry piece is from and when it was made. Different countries have different standards for hallmarking, and antique dealers and jewelers often look for specific hallmarks that indicate the origins of a piece. Depending upon the origin, a hallmark can be a precious metal value content number, or a hallmark may be symbol from the country or jewelry maker. Old or antique pieces with distinctive hallmarks can be very valuable. However, most pieces that are .999 fine silver jewelry are clearly marked with the numerical content.

Today, when shopping for pieces, those buying or investing in fine jewelry will want to check their possible purchases or investments for the hallmark listing the precious metal content. And, when shopping for pieces to wear, a person should remember that .999 fine silver jewelry may be silver in its purest form, it may be a piece that can be worn only for special occasions. It is important to speak with a jeweler or with the artist who fashioned the piece, and discover his or her thoughts about the content and the other metals alloyed to create the piece.

The Bible teaches that God's Word is far more valuable than any metal. People, especially Christians, are to enjoy the earthly and material gifts that God gives, but they are to treasure His Word as the most valuable resource found on earth. "The words of the Lord are pure words: as silver tried in a furnace of earth, purified seven times. Thou shalt keep them, O Lord, thou shalt preserve them from this generation forever" (Psalms 12:6-7). God's Word also teaches His children to seek wisdom in His Word, explaining that godly wisdom is to be desired above the wealth and riches offered by this world. "Yea, if thou criest after knowledge, and liftest up thy voice for understanding: if thou seekests her as silver, and searchest for her as for hid treasures; then shalt thou understand the fear of the Lord, and find the knowledge of God. For the Lord giveth wisdom; out of his mouth cometh knowledge and understanding." (Proverbs 2:3-6) It is important to search for custom pieces that are .999 fine silver jewelry or are sterling silver, when investing in jewelry, but seek God's wisdom above all things.