What You Should Know about Sterling Silver
Frequently Asked Questions

1. What exactly is "sterling silver?"
The United States government has established strict definitions for metal which is "sterling silver." In order to qualify as sterling, the metal must contain 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Only with these proportions may a piece be stamped ".925" or "sterling silver."

2. If .925 is "sterling silver," what's ".875," or ".750?"
In countries outside the United States lesser qualities of silver are manufactured and sold. This lesser quality silver, when polished, will not have the same bright shine or patina as sterling.

3. What is "vermeil?"
Sometimes sterling is given an overlay of gold (120/one millionth of an inch thick). The resulting product, used in many high-fashion jewelry pieces is called "vermeil" (pronounced ver-may).

4. When and where did sterling have its "beginnings?"
Sterling can be traced back as far as ancient Greek and Egyptian civilizations. Egyptians, like their contemporary counterparts, used sterling as adornment. They were fond of sterling that many a wealthy Egyptian took one or more pieces in his tomb. Greek warriors decorated their shields and other articles carried into battle, using sterling silver. They also were amongst the first collectors of sterling silver objects d'art.

Because it is both durable, malleable (easy to work with) and less expensive than its platinum and gold cousins, silver stands in very good favor amongst jewelry designers. Even large pieces may become affordable when created in sterling silver. Sterling silver jewelry is a good choice to complement any wardrobe.