vendredi 23 janvier 2015

An Insider's Look At Argentium Silver Jewelry

By Janine Hughes


Many people love the look of silver and sterling silver. They love the shine of it, the color of it, and the way the metal feels against their skin. What they hate is the way it may react over time and the care that is needed to keep it looking its best. If this is the case with you, Argentium silver jewelry might be just what you are looking for.

When many people hear the name of this metal, they may think that it is a totally new type of metal. The truth is that it is actually a slightly different variety of sterling silver. Sterling is actually a mix of silver and copper. This is because, like gold, pure silver is too soft to make durable items out of. If a jeweler wants to make a ring that will hold up to daily wear or use, they need to harden the metal by adding copper.

Argentium still uses approximately 93 per cent pure silver. The color of the end alloy is still the same beautiful, bright hue. But instead of adding copper, germanium makes up the remainder of the alloy. The resulting differences are of interest to both consumers and those making items from this metal.

Tarnishing is one traditional property of sterling and is perhaps its best-known drawback. The metal will, over time, react with oxygen and slowly become darker and duller. Fine details such as engraving can actually disappear and it may take a long time and a lot of elbow grease to restore the traditional, beautiful gleam of the metal underneath. While many people think that Argentium does not tarnish at all, the fact is that this metal does discolor. It may turn a light tan color and any discoloration on the surface can be easily removed with a cloth.

Tarnishing alone is not the only problem that some people have with traditional versions of this alloy. Some people may also be allergic to the copper that makes up the blend of metals. This can cause their skin to become red or to react in other ways. Many people choose not to wear this metal as a result. They may not be able to afford the high prices that may be charged for white gold or platinum. By choosing a version that is copper free, it may make it possible for them to wear silver again.

If you want to find items made from this metal, there are many options. The first is to check with local shops to see if they sell pieces made from this alloy. This can be helpful as it can allow you to try pieces on and make sure that they fit properly and that you like the way they look. You may also want to check out websites that specialize in items made from this particular metal. They may have better prices and a wider selection than shops in your area would have.

Once you have a few pieces that you love, you will want to keep them looking their best. While it takes less to care for them than with regular silver, there are still a few things that you can do to keep your items looking as beautiful as they day you got them. Although the metal will not become dark, oils from your skin and dirt can still build up. Wiping down your pieces with a soft cloth will clean them and keep them shiny and beautiful.

If you love the shine of sterling, you may want to consider this new alloy as an alternative. Whether it is a necklace, a ring, a bracelet or earrings, Argentium can be one way to get the look you want without all of the polishing and tarnish removal that you hate.




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