The sale of jewelry internationally is a very competitive market. It has long been popular as it is malleable and lends itself to exquisite designs. Handcrafted silver jewelry items have become most popular by those wishing to obtain an item that is both beautiful and unique.
Most hand-crafted pieces are made from 925 Silver. This is sometimes known as Sterling, and is used because as a pure metal, it is too soft to work with and easily damaged when worn. This stronger form can be shaped and will withstand normal wear.
This mix contains 92.5% silver and the remainder is made up of other metal, usually copper. This metal is not very reactive, so for jewelry making it is ideal, oxygen and and water contact will not mar its beauty. Sulfur in the atmosphere may cause some tarnishing but skilled polishing or use of special cleaner will soon restore it to its original condition.
This metal is mined in many areas of the world, the Americas, Australia and Eastern Europe. This means that jewelers specializing in this metal are to be found worldwide and no particular country leads the field. A wide selection of designs can be found internationally and these may incorporate the use of gemstones favored or found in that specific country.
Two gems, the garnet and the amethyst are frequently used in the making of beautiful pieces like brooches, rings and earrings. Turquoise has long been teemed with this metal. Experts find these two, together complement each other, resulting in exquisite pieces.
Bracelets for the wrist and ankle as well as pendants are also popular for women. The market for men’s accessories must not be overlooked, as many men will wear chains, rings and cuff-links made from this sterling metal. Smiths in Indonesia are crafting interesting designs most sought after at the moment, incorporating old traditional ideas with modern flair, but many exceptionally beautiful handcrafted silver jewelry pieces can be found all over the world.
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