Sterling Silver VS. Stainless Steel Jewelry
When it comes to choosing jewelry accessories, sterling silver and stainless steel are the most popular choices, especially because of their similar appearance. However, the similarities end there, as stainless steel and sterling silver are vastly different from each other.
Which do you usually choose, sterling silver or stainless steel?
Differences between sterling silver and stainless steel
Sterling Silver
Silver is a precious metal and a chemical element. It’s not as rare as platinum and gold, but it’s still valuable. Sterling silver is a type of silver consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy. In most cases, the metal of choice is copper alloy, but other metals such as zinc and platinum can also be used. To counter sophistication while maintaining the beauty of sterling silver, other metals are added. The resulting sterling silver was stronger and more useful.
Stainless Steel
Stainless steel is a popular choice for jewelry, tableware, and even surgical equipment. This gives stainless steel a higher sheen that will appeal to those who like to add a little sparkle to their clothing or dining table.
Stainless steel normally has a minimum of 10.5% chromium within its makeup, 1.2% or less carbon, and a mixture of other metals. There are about 150 variations of this metal, the most common being a combination of chrome and steel. This special combination provides the durability, strength and function of steel. While also leveraging the low maintenance and corrosion resistance of chrome. Other metals that can be used for stainless steel are nickel and titanium.
Sterling Silver VS. Stainless Steel: Pros and Cons
Pros of Sterling Silver
- It is a precious metal, but more affordable than gold or platinum.
- Provides more extensibility and versatility.
- Easily create complex designs.
- Can be easily cleaned and restored to its former glory
- Can be easily repaired in case of damage
- Provides a nice shine to jewelry and adds a touch of elegance to your look.
Cons of Sterling Silver
- Due to its inherent softness, it is more prone to damage such as scratches.
- Tarnishes more easily than stainless steel
- Tends to cost more than stainless steel
Pros of Stainless Steel
- Corrosion-resistant
- Harder construction
- Increased durability
- Scratch resistant
- Gives off a better luster than silver
- Versatile
- More affordable compared to silver
- Great for everyday use
- Easy to clean and low maintenance
Cons of Stainless Steel
- Not easy to repair after damage.
- May trigger an allergic reaction in some people.
Which is better: sterling silver or stainless steel?
The most important detail to note here is that the choice of better jewelry is up to you and your needs.
Both of them are beautiful metals. They even look the same to the naked eye, but a closer look reveals subtle differences. Sterling silver is considered more elegant than stainless steel, and jewelry often has unique finishes.
On the other hand, stainless steel is more durable and stronger than sterling silver. So if you want something that’s strong and requires little maintenance and won’t tarnish over time, stainless steel is probably the way to go.
That doesn’t mean sterling silver isn’t durable. It’s strong enough to use as jewelry, and because it’s softer than stainless steel, it’s easier to modify and resize.
For people prone to allergies, stainless steel is a better choice. It’s also cheaper than sterling silver, but the latter is a great investment vehicle and inherently more valuable than steel.
Stainless steel is perfect for pieces you wear every day. Its extra shine will add sparkle to your outfit. Sterling silver is great for statement pieces to add to your collection and only worn on special occasions.
FAQs about sterling silver vs stainless steel
Is stainless steel silver?
They are not the same. Stainless steel is an alloy made of iron, chromium, and other elements. Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper or other metals. Both of these things can be used to make jewelry, but they look and behave differently. Most of the time, stainless steel is more durable and won’t rust, while sterling silver shines and is thought to be a more valuable material.
Don’t know how to take care of your sterling silver jewelry? Read and find more information here.