Choosing the right jewellery can be challenging, especially when deciding on the right material. 925 Sterling Silver and Stainless Steel are two of the most common materials used for jewellery, but what's the difference and which one's better? In short, both materials are very different as each has its benefits. The right choice depends on what you're looking for from your new piece.
What's the material difference between Sterling Silver and Stainless Steel?
- Sterling Silver: Silver is one of the most well-known precious metals (alongside gold and platinum) and is an alloy, meaning it blends pure silver (typically 92.5%) with other metals, usually copper. The other materials primarily add to the metal's strength and durability.
- Stainless Steel: Steel is not a precious metal and is typically a mix of cheaper metals such as iron, chromium, and sometimes nickel.
How can I tell the difference between Sterling Silver and Stainless Steel?
The easiest way to identify whether a piece is sterling silver is to look for the sterling silver hallmark. This hallmark is a "925" stamped on the jewellery, indicating it meets the standards for sterling silver.
Furthermore, stainless steel is generally a darker colour, which is another quick way to help tell the difference.
Which material is more durable?
Due to the mix of metals used in the its construction, stainless steel is the more durable material.
- Sterling Silver: While it's beautiful in colour, sterling silver does require more TLC than stainless steel. It's recommended to polish the metal now and again. However, it's important to note that most of the 925 sterling silver jewellery we sell at Harry Lincoln is rhodium-plated (another precious metal). This rhodium plating prevents the silver from blackening and requiring polish.
- Stainless Steel: This is lower maintenance than 925 sterling silver but still requires a bit of occasional polish to keep the metal clean.
Regardless of which metal you're looking to buy, we'd recommend you buy a jewellery polishing cloth on Amazon to maintain the effect of the piece.
Is Stainless Steel cheaper than Sterling Silver?
As a precious metal, sterling silver is naturally more expensive than stainless steel.
- Sterling Silver: Offers a balance between quality and price, making it a more timeless addition to your jewellery collection. Sterling Silver can complement your day-to-day look or be a standout piece for special occasions. However, this does come at a higher price than stainless steel.
- Stainless Steel: The more budget-friendly option, stainless steel is an excellent choice for those who're looking for costume jewellery on a tighter budget.
The Final Verdict!
The right choice depends entirely on what you're looking for from your new piece of jewellery. When choosing your piece, consider your lifestyle, budget, and desired aesthetics to make the right selection.
- Choose Sterling Silver if: You're looking for a high-quality timeless addition to your collection that would be perfect for any occasion.
- Choose Stainless Steel if: You're looking for a more affordable piece to compliment a few specific outfits.
Ultimately, the best metal is the one that makes you feel confident and stylish!
If you're looking to purchase a new piece for your collection, browse our range of 925 Sterling Silver and 18k Gold Jewellery today by viewing our All Products page.
FAQs
- How can I tell if my jewellery is Sterling Silver or Stainless Steel? Look for a "925" hallmark stamp on the jewellery, indicating it is Sterling Silver. Additionally, Stainless Steel tends to have a darker colour compared to the brighter sheen of Sterling Silver.
- How do I care for Sterling Silver jewellery? Sterling Silver requires regular polishing to maintain its shine and prevent tarnish. Using a jewellery polishing cloth and storing it in a dry place can help preserve its appearance.
- Which material is more durable, Sterling Silver or Stainless Steel? Stainless Steel is generally more durable and resistant to scratches and tarnish. Sterling Silver, while durable, requires more care and occasional polishing, especially if not rhodium-plated.
- Does Stainless Steel require any maintenance? While Stainless Steel is low-maintenance, it still benefits from occasional cleaning to keep it looking its best. A simple polish with a jewellery cloth will do the trick.
- Can I wear Sterling Silver jewellery every day? Yes, you can wear Sterling Silver every day, but be mindful of its susceptibility to tarnish and scratches. Proper care and occasional polishing will help maintain its beauty.