Silver Jewelry - how to tell if it's real or fake

Quality jewelry is made with the best materials. Its value is not compromised by using inferior metals or shoddy craftsmanship. When purchasing sterling silver jewelry, you want to be assured that it is authentic. You want to feel confident that your piece is the quality you expect for the price that you paid.    

A Popular Trend

Silver jewelry has become a classic in term of fashion standards. It coordinates with every outfit and can be worn for all occasions. From weddings, business lunches, a day of shopping with friends to evening dates, silver accessories will look great. New styles incorporating larger pendants on sterling silver chains are a hot trend currently. This jewelry is an investment in quality that stands the time of time. A few pieces can accessorize your wardrobe beautifully. Designs can range from neutral or eye-catching. 

925 Stamp - It's the Law 

It is the law that metal must be identified by the maker and the metal quality.  Revised Section 295 of Volume 15 of the United States Code is commonly known as the National Gold and Silver Marking Act, went into effect October 1, 1981. It set requirements for gold and silver markings that must be followed. The mark for sterling silver will either be stamped "sterling" or the number 925. 925 refer to 92.5% silver which is considered sterling. The location of the stamp varies depending on the type of jewelry. The stamp on necklaces is usually on the clasp. On rings and bracelets, the stamps are usually on the inside of the sterling silver jewelry piece. 

Acid Test

Cheap imitations of jewelry (including chains) have flooded the market. Consumers are justified in their wariness of claims that jewelry is real. Out of necessity, a nitric test has been developed that can determine if a piece is real or fake. This test can be done by yourself, but it is suggested that you have a local jeweler perform it due to their expertise. It is done by vigorously rubbing a certain portion of the silver jewelry that you want to test. Try to pick an area that is not noticeable. Then apply a few drops of nitric acid onto the scratched surface. The results will determine if your piece is real or fake. If the liquid turns green, the item is only silver plated. If the liquid turns a cloudy grey color, this piece is guaranteed sterling silver. 

Only Buy from Trusted Sources

It is important to buy sterling silver jewelry from trusted sources. These sources can range from neighborhood jewelers to reliable online retailers. If possible, check out a company's reputation. Find out from friends where they purchased their jewelry and what kind of experiences have they had with particular retailers. A trusted jeweler can even appraise any jewelry that you currently have. He or she can tell you if particular pieces are real or fake.  

By taking the appropriate steps, you can be assured that your silver jewelry is both genuine and high quality.