Keeping Sterling Silver Charms in Optimal Condition
Sterling silver charms are becoming increasingly popular for women of all ages. The glitter and shine of these bracelets creates an impressive and attractive appearance. Although silver is not very expensive, it possess a noticeable shine and quality when added on bracelets. Silver is very malleable in pure form, so the bracelets can be shaped into many different complex and intricate designs.
A bracelet is defined as sterling silver if it is made from 7.5% copper (or other metal) and 92.5% silver. Pure silver is more valuable, but it is too soft to make jewelry because it can bend or warp when exposed to weight and pressure. Copper is usually added to increase the bracelets strength, but a variety of other metals can be used. Germanium, platinum, boron, or silicon is also added to keep the bracelet from tarnishing.
Pure silver is very beautiful, but it is not conducive for jewelry until it has been mixed with some other metal compound. Although copper provides increased strength, it will heighten the risk of metal corrosion or tarnish. To prevent a bracelet that is too soft or too hard, the silversmith has to put the exact combination of silver and copper to create a quality piece of jewelry. Silver is resistant to corroding while the copper provides increased hardness.
A brand new silver charm may look flawless, but it can become very dirty if left unattended. If the wearer lives near the beach or in a humid climate, the corrosion process will increase rapidly. To prevent oxidization from corroding the metal, always keep charms protected. Place the charm in a safe to keep it from being exposed to oxygen in the air. Using a silver cleaner to wipe of the bracelet is also a vital step to keeping silver jewelry in optimal condition.
The intricate designs and patterns weaving around charms are very beautiful, but they can make the silver difficult to clean. These small areas should not be ignored because they will get dark from accumulated dirt. Use toothpaste and a toothbrush to scrub in the cracks and remove the dirt. Another helpful additive is silver cleaner, but this will require the entire bracelet to be placed inside a bowl of cleaner.
Sterling silver charms can remain beautiful if they are kept in the proper conditions. You can find these charms in almost every shape, design, and variety. Gold is often too expensive for most people, so sterling silver is the best solution. Silver is still a precious metal and it is strong enough to last for decades without wearing down.
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