Handmade Sterling Silver Jewelry: A Gift for Anyone

by John Brana September 01, 2013

It's no secret that handmade sterling silver jewelry makes for a great gift. But what many people don't know is that there's a sterling silver necklace, bracelet or pair of earrings out there for everyone - even the pickiest person on your list. So whether you're shopping for your mom, your sister or your best friend, read on for the perfect piece of handmade sterling silver jewelry for the special someone in your life.

What is Sterling Silver?

Some of the most beautiful, yet affordable, pieces of jewelry you can find are made of Sterling Silver. Handmade Sterling Silver jewelry can be worn with nearly any style of clothing, to any occasion, and can be worn year-round. No one would turn down a gift of Sterling Silver jewelry. Sterling Silver refers to silver that is .925 pure. Unless pure silver is hammered, it is usually too soft for most jewelry applications. The derivation of the term, “Sterling Silver” is not agreed upon by experts. Some historians say that it refers to the British “pound Sterling”, while others say that Sterling Silver originally was developed in Sterlingshire, Scotland.  Pure silver jewelry is commonly referred to as fine silver jewelry.

Sterlingshire had a large silver mine, and because of this, most historians believe this derivation to be true. In addition, there are several other theories as to why silver that is .925 pure is called Sterling. However, handmade sterling silver jewelry is more than just the silver itself. Silver is a difficult metal to work with and a jeweler who works with Sterling Silver must be a master craftsman. Silver jewelry is often intricate and exquisite, reflecting the personality of the wearer. 

Handcrafted Sterling Silver Necklaces

Sterling silver necklaces make a beautiful and timeless gift for any occasion. Whether you are looking for a special gift for your wife or girlfriend, or you are shopping for a unique piece of jewelry for yourself, sterling silver is always a good choice.

When it comes to quality necklaces, there are many different design options to choose from. If you are looking for something simple and elegant, handmade sterling silver chains with a single strand of pearls is always a classic choice. For something a little more daring, like a wearable art statement piece, you might want to consider a handmade necklace with multiple strands of different colored gemstones like the one pictured below that features Chrysoprase. 

No matter what your personal style, silver handmade necklaces make a beautiful and meaningful gift that will be cherished for years to come. If you are looking for a quality piece of jewelry that will stand the test of time, sterling silver is the way to go.

 

Handmade Sterling Silver Pendants

When you purchase a handmade sterling silver pendant, you know that you're getting a one-of-a-kind piece. No two handmade pendants are exactly alike, so you can be confident that the recipient will be receiving a truly unique gift. Made with superior craftsmanship and attention to detail, mass-produced pieces of jewelry simply can't compare in terms of quality.

When you give a handmade sterling silver pendant as a gift like this bold and beautiful 32.5 carat Amethyst wire sculpted pendant pictured below, you can be sure that it will last for many years to come.  Sterling Silver wire encases a stunning Marquise Cut Amethyst gemstone that creates a magnificent pendant fit for a queen.

 

What to Look for When Purchasing Sterling Silver Jewelry

When purchasing handmade sterling silver jewelry, especially if it's a gift, make sure that the silver used is, in fact, solid Sterling Silver. Many low priced, massed produced jewelry (especially those made overseas) are actually plated silver jewelry, even though they are marked .925.  Plated Silver (sometimes referred to as Overlay or Technibond) is electroplated silver over a base pot metal (usually tin, aluminum, or zinc), and thus, is not solid Sterling Silver.  Not only will plated silver jewelry quickly tarnish, the plate commonly wears off and also might cause allergic reactions.

Buy Quality Sterling Silver Jewelry

On the other hand, Sterling Silver may tarnish over time, but will wear well, day in and day out with little care. Many low-end jewelers or craftsman will sell anything with a silver color and tell you that it is sterling silver. Remember, “You get what you pay for”, so if a piece of jewelry appears to be under-priced, beware. Establishing a trusted relationship with your local jeweler or jewelry designer is well worth your effort.  A good piece of handmade sterling silver jewelry will reflect the work in its price, and any quality piece is worth paying for. 

 

Inspirational Sterling Silver Rings

Handmade sterling silver rings are those which are made by artisans using traditional methods. The term " handmade" means that each ring is made individually, by hand, without the use of any machines. Fine silver is typically mixed with copper to create a more durable metal, resulting in unique and beautiful pieces that are meant to last a lifetime. When you purchase handmade sterling silver rings, you can be sure that you're getting a one-of-a-kind piece that was created with care and precision such as this 21.5 ct Checkboard Cut Citrine Sterling Silver Cocktail Ring.


Click Here To View More Handmade Sterling Silver Artisan Jewelry

 

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