Diamond & Jewelry News, Advice and Prices for Consumers
Diamond & Jewelry News, Advice and Prices for Consumers
June 21, 2010
I've encountered the term 'plated silver jewelry' and I wondered if, as it sounds, this term refers to fake silver achieved by using less precious metals?
June 29, 2010
Not at all. Sterling silver jewelry is most often plated with a metallic alloy called rhodium. The rhodium is added to preserve the silver jewelry, to protect against corrosion or tarnish, to protect against a possible allergic reaction the wearer may have when wearing silver and to add to the jewelry's natural luster and appeal. The jewelry is still made mostly out of genuine sterling silver (which is composed out of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper). The rhodium is added as an extremely thin, protective coat. If you're worried about the genuineness of silver jewelry then make sure to look for the 925 stamp which marks every genuine piece of sterling silver jewelry. The 925 stamp ensures the item's quality and its value.
