Silver Types

What Kind of Silver Types Should You Use for Keepsake Jewellery?

Why Silver is a Great Choice
Keepsake jewellery is such a meaningful way to hold onto precious memories! Silver is perfect because it lets you create something beautiful and lasting without breaking the bank. This is where we break down the best silver types—specifically Sterling Silver and Argentium Silver—so you know exactly what you’re working with. Getting this right is the key to making a true keepsake. We’ll also tell you what materials to definitely avoid!

The Real Deal Metals You Want to Use

A. Sterling Silver (.925): The Workhorse

• What it is: It’s an alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper.
• Why it’s great: That little bit of copper makes it tough as nails! It adds mechanical strength, which is why it’s best for pieces that take a lot of wear and tear, like rings and bracelets.
• The Downside: The copper also means it can tarnish over time (that’s the brown or black color you sometimes see). You’ll need to clean it every now and then.

B. Argentium Silver (.935 and .940): The Purer Choice

• • • What it is: It’s an alloy made of 93.5% or 94% pure silver, germanium and just a tiny bit of copper for strength.
    • Why it’s great: It’s always recycled and a brighter, whiter metal than sterling. Again, it has less alloy metals, it’s even more gentle on skin (hypoallergenic) and it rarely tarnishes. It’s perfect for experienced jewellers to work with.
    • The Downside: 935 can be a little more brittle than sterling but 940 (the new standard) has no issues there. It’s generally pricier than sterling

      

  Seriously, Skip the Fake Stuff

  Plated and Filled? Steer Clear. These materials just have a thin, surface layer of silver over a base metal. That layer will eventually wear off, which completely spoils the look and integrity of your meaningful keepsake. We just don’t recommend them for heirlooms! How to Know It’s Legit: a 925 stamp doesn’t mean anything. Anyone can mark a piece of silver plated base metal with a 925 stamp and it doesn’t mean it’s real silver. You can request a genuine hallmark but these can be expensive. Instead, source your silver findings from a credible jeweller you trust or make your own.

  How to Keep It Looking Fresh

• Quick Fixes for Tarnish: If your Silver does tarnish, don’t worry! Using a quality silver polish and a soft cloth is all it takes to make it look brand new again.
• Longevity Tip: When you start with these premium silver types and care for them properly, you’re ensuring that the piece you create will genuinely last for years to come.

  

Next Steps (Time to Get Your Supplies!)

It’s pretty simple: the only silver types you should rely on for high-quality jewellery are sterling and Argentium (or fine silver, but that’s pretty soft!) Ready to start crafting your own heirloom? To make sure your pieces are consistent and professional, grab all your certified Sterling Silver and Argentium Silver components, plus your essential preservation supplies and tools, right here at Keepsaker Supplies! We’re here to help you get started.