What is “Sterling” Silver?

When talking about silver, the term “sterling” indicates that the silver content is a minimum of 92.5%.
There are two grades of sterling silver used in quality jewelry, 92.5% silver or 925 grade, and 95% silver or 950 grade.
Occasionally, silver jewelry is made of 900 grade to make them more durable.Some items, such as sterling silver boxes, silverware and the like are made with 80% silver, or 800 grade in order to make them more durable.

How can I be sure about the “sterling” or quality of the silver?

Gold Silver Creations® only sells silver that carries a stamp guaranteeing its purity.
Just as with gold, the stamp is highly regulated and monitored and the governments in those countries impose severe penalties for any tampering.
All items sold on our web site are stamped with the silver quality and are so indicated.

What about items described as “hollow”?

Some three-dimensional items are manufactured with hollow inside in order to reduce the weight, and hence the price.
These are usually 925 silver to make them less susceptible to denting, and should be handled with care.  If these items were solid, they may cost over 10 times as much.

What about items described as “silver plated”?

Silver plated items are made of inexpensive metal then covered with a very thin coating of silver, measured in micron (0.000039 inch).
In other words, it has no silver value.

How do I clean silver?

Silver tarnishes easily in air.
Line a small bowl with aluminum foil and fill with water.  Add a teaspoon of baking soda and let stand for 5 to 10 minutes.  Rinse and dry immediately.
This is usually sufficient.  For excessive tarnish, use a paste made especially to clean silver.