| Today we are going to continue our series on | | | | malleability which makes it extremely |
| the uses of silver. What is the first thing | | | | attractive in using it in decorative items |
| you think about when you hear the word | | | | and jewelry. When purchasing a piece of |
| silver? For me, I immediately think of my | | | | jewelry, one of the first things we do to |
| grandmothers silver tea set that sits proudly | | | | make sure that it is true sterling silver is |
| on her buffet in the dining room. Silver is | | | | to check for the stamp that is usually placed |
| such a unique and versatile material. It has | | | | near the clasp. It simply states 3 numbers, |
| so many uses. | | | | ..925 and having that somewhere on your piece |
| | | | of jewelry makes it authentic. |
| One of its first uses was in currency. It is | | | | |
| a metal that does not easily corrode so it is | | | | Many people who have allergies or reactions |
| great conductor of electricity. It can tend | | | | to certain kinds of metal will tend to choose |
| to tarnish but is easily cleaned again with a | | | | something more pure like gold or sterling |
| little polish. It is flexible and also a | | | | silver. That is why Gilbert and Frech items |
| great conductor of heat. I was surprised to | | | | are of the highest quality sterling silver. |
| learn that most switches and electrical | | | | Silver is such an attainable and affordable |
| appliances all have contacts that are made of | | | | way to go especially in comparing it with |
| silver. Silver is also used in materials for | | | | some of the other metals which seem to be |
| photography. | | | | much more expensive. I personally like the |
| | | | color of sterling sliver much better than say |
| You may be surprised to know that of the | | | | a yellow gold. I love how, when paired with a |
| world's usage of silver, only 14 percent is | | | | gemstone, it reflects and enhances the beauty |
| used for silverware and jewelry. This is | | | | of the stone. It is something of quality that |
| where sterling silver comes into play. In | | | | lasts much longer, much like a piece of gold |
| order to make it more durable and stronger, | | | | would last, and yet not as costly. Tomorrow |
| 7.5% copper is added to 92.5% pure silver and | | | | we will talk about its value and how its |
| that is how you come up with "sterling | | | | worth has changed dramatically over the |
| silver." It has reflective qualities and | | | | years. |