Sterling Silver: What Is It?

Sterling silver has captured the hearts of many jewelry lovers for years!
Often, messages that come our way at Ark & Bow include questions such as,“So sterling silver, what is it?”.

What exactly is sterling silver, and why is it so cherished? Let’s delve into the world of sterling silver, its properties, and most importantly - our care tips.

 Ark & Bow's most purchased Cuban Link Ring

1. The Origins of Sterling Silver

Let’s take a step back in time for a moment!

• The term "sterling" is believed to have originated in 12th-century England and it eventually evolved to describe silver of exceptional quality.
• In contemporary usage, "sterling silver" refers to an alloy that contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of other metals, most commonly copper.

2. What Makes Sterling Silver Unique?

Sterling silver stands out in the world of metals for several reasons:

Purity: As mentioned earlier, sterling silver is composed of 92.5% pure silver, which gives it its unmistakable shine and luster. This high silver content is why it's often called "925 silver.”

Just take a look at how shiny 925 silver looks: 

Featuring a truly unique and outstanding design, our mariner chain is crafted from 925 sterling silver and is sure to bring you many compliments!

Versatility: Sterling silver can be crafted into all kinds of designs, from classic to modern. We love to experiment with different eye-catching designs and finish. Check out two of our favourite signet rings:

 Our square signet ring and our rectangular signet ring, crafted from authentic 925 silver.

3. Proper Care for Sterling Silver

Here are some of Ark & Bow’s suggestions to maintain the beauty of your 925 silver pieces:

Avoid Harsh Chemicals: Remove your sterling silver jewelry before swimming, cleaning with household chemicals, or applying lotions, perfumes, and hair sprays. These substances can accelerate tarnishing!

Proper Storage: When you're not wearing your 925 silver pieces, store them in a cool, dry place, ideally in an airtight container or a tarnish-resistant bag, such as your Ark & Bow pouch. This prevents exposure to moisture and air, which can cause tarnishing.

If you would like more suggestions, check out our Care Guide!