Silver is a precious metal that is widely used in the manufacture of jewelry and other decorative objects. Silver metalwork acquired great relevance at the end of the 18th century in the form of jewelry for women and tools for great leaders.
Today, this tradition is preserved in the Araucanía Region, where goldsmiths and silversmiths have multiplied the shapes, designs and uses of ancestral pieces.
Pure silver is called Silver 1000, in reference to the fact that it contains 100% of this metal. However, pure silver is not suitable for making chains, earrings or rings, as it is very soft. That is why it must be mixed with a very low percentage of other metals to give the material more hardness and so that it can be modeled in a better way.
Two of the most common silver alloys are 925 silver and 950 silver, but what does this mean? Below we will explain the differences between the two and give you useful tips on how to care for and clean your silver jewelry.
- Differences between Silver 925 and Silver 950
The main difference between 925 silver and 950 silver lies in their composition. 925 silver, also known as sterling silver, contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This alloy offers greater strength and durability. On the other hand, 950 silver is a purer material, as it consists of 95% silver and 5% other metals. 950 silver tends to be a little softer and can be more prone to dents, but it also has a distinctive shine.
- Care
To maintain the beauty and shine of 925 and 950 silver, it is important to follow some care tips:
-Proper Storage: Store your silver pieces in a cool, dry place, preferably in a jewelry bag or box to prevent oxidation and scratches.
-Avoid contact with chemicals: Protect your silver by avoiding contact with harsh chemicals, such as perfumes, lotions, chlorine and cleaning products. These can cause discoloration and damage to the metal.
-Remove jewelry before physical activities: It is advisable to remove silver jewelry before activities such as sports, housework or contact with water to prevent damage or loss.
Silver cleaning
As silver is exposed to air and other elements, it can lose its original shine. Here are some methods to clean it properly:
-Clean with a soft cloth: Use a soft, non-abrasive cleaning cloth to gently rub the surface of the silver. This will help remove dirt and restore its natural shine.
-Soaking in warm water and mild soap: If the silver is very dirty, you can soak it in warm water with a little mild soap for a few minutes. Then, gently scrub with a soft-bristled toothbrush and rinse with clean water. Make sure to dry it completely before storing it.
-Use specific cleaning products: There are cleaning products specially designed for silver on the market. Follow the manufacturer's instructions to use them correctly and restore the shine of your silver pieces.
Both 925 silver and 950 silver are popular and beautiful options. You can review the goldsmithing category and marvel at the silver work of the artisans from the south of our country.
