The use of silver in jewelry and ornamentation dates back over 5,000 years, originating independently across several ancient civilizations including Egypt, China, Phoenicia, and India. Prized for its shine, durability, and malleability, filigree, embossing, and stone inlay evolved to adorn silver jewelry with unique designs. Examples of early use included eating and drinking vessels, ancient sculptures, and jewelry created for the ruling classes. In Ancient Egypt, it was reserved for kings, queens, pharaohs, and select court officials. In Ancient Greece, it belonged almost exclusively to the wealthiest men and women, even though it was used to produce the currency of the time. Celtic tribes combined silver with bronze creating brooches, torcs (neck rings), and lunulae (crescent-shaped ornaments. 

Throughout history, there have been times when it was valued more highly than gold, with whole economies depending on its availability. Silver coins are still minted in various countries today, but are typically made using compositions other than the traditional sterling silver blend. 

Pure or Fine Silver, is relatively soft. It is often alloyed with copper to increase its strength, making it more durable in jewelry designs. To reduce tarnishing, elements other than copper can be used in alloys, such as zinc, platinum, silicon, boron, and more recently, sterlium, and palladium. Silver remains a popular medium with artisans and jewelers today, and its beauty continues to be loved by the wearer.

Whether a timeless treasure or a trendy new piece, your sterling silver should be seen at its best. Here are a few easy-to-remember DO’S and DON’TS to help keep it looking as lovely as the day it entered your life.

DO SHOW IT OFF

Silver that is worn regularly typically needs less care. So wear it often. Mix and match it with other pieces you love. Let it experience life with you.

DO GIVE IT A LITTLE LOVE

Frequently polish your silver to maintain its shine. Use a soft polishing cloth or special jewelry cloth for cleaning (not paper towels or bath tissue) and show it how much you care.

DO FIND IT A SAFE RESTING SPOT

Store your silver separately in a tarnish-resistant jewelry box or jewelry pouch. It needs a secure, non-abrasive spot to recuperate after a long day of helping you shine.

DON'T TREAT IT LIKE A WORKOUT BUDDY

Be sure to remove your silver jewelry before swimming, soaking in a hot tub or sauna, spending time sunbathing, visiting a gym, or doing sports.

DON'T TREAT IT LIKE A SPA FRIEND

Limit the contact your silver has with make-up, creams, perfumes, hair products, and lotions. Put it on after you've applied your beauty and self-care products.

DON'T TREAT IT LIKE A LAB PARTNER

No need for any science experiments with your silver. Avoid harsh dips, polishing liquids, ultrasonic cleaning, and strong chemicals. It doesn't require any of those.

 Whether rings, earrings, bracelets or cuffs, pendants, necklaces, belt buckles, hatbands, or cufflinks, hammered, oxidized, linked, or paired with precious and semi-precious stones, you're sure to find just the right new piece as a gift, or for yourself, at Sorrel Sky Gallery.