Some of the most elegant gifts are made of sterling silver. During holidays, birthdays, and other special occasions, people often give sterling silver jewelry and other gifts to their friends and loved ones. Sterling silver is an elegant and sophisticated material that both men and women appreciate. It offers beautiful sparkle and shine. People can hardly resist its loveliness. People use sterling silver jewelry to accessorize their wardrobes in simple yet, stylish manner.

Silver was discovered near 4000 B.C. in the land of Anatolia, now called Turkey. It was one of the first metals that mankind regularly used to fashion different items. Some of the many items created were weapons, utensils, and jewelry. Because silver is so recyclable, the people of the past would often melt down these items and refashion them into something else. Silver is a very common metal with most of the deposits located in Mexico and Peru. Therefore, sterling silver jewelry derives its value from skill, design, and hard work put into the making of the jewelry.

This metal is extremely malleable and strong when combined with other metals. Sterling silver jewelry is a combination of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. Without the copper, silver would be too weak to create jewelry. In addition to adding strength, copper works well with silver because it maintains silver’s original color. Silver is very desirable is jewelry making because it reflects light better than any other metal (except liquid mercury). In fact, its chemical symbol, Ag for argentums means “white and shining”. The shine, strength, and workability sterling silver jewelry is adored by both consumers and jewelry makers.

Popular sterling silver jewelry gifts are available for men and women. Women enjoy earrings, necklaces, bracelets, anklets and rings. Men appreciate signet rings, cuff links, and tie bars. Sterling silver jewelry as gifts signifies love, sentiment, and maturity. It is a gift that is commonly given to that special someone. Very often, the gift-giver will have the sterling silver jewelry engraved with endearing words or the receiver’s name.

Sterling silver jewelry does have a tendency to tarnish. To prevent this, many sterling silver items are coated with a protective lacquer. This will wear off in time, but it prolongs the process of tarnishing. When the jewelry does begin to tarnish, it is best to clean it immediately. The longer before tarnish is removed, the harder it is to remove. Further maintenance of sterling silver jewelry includes storing it in a cool, airtight case and avoiding harsh chemicals. Air and chemicals will cause sterling silver jewelry to oxidize and tarnish. Also, avoid placing the jewelry near wood or plastic. These items also contain chemicals that can cause silver to tarnish. Take the jewelry for professional cleaning every 6-12 months to restore its luster. To ensure that quality sterling silver jewelry is purchased, look for the quality mark on the jewelry.