Sterling Silver Necklace

What is a Sterling Silver Necklace?

A sterling silver necklace is a piece of jewelry that is composed of 92% silver and 7% of another kind of metal alloy. Usually, copper is mixed with the silver to give it a strong design and shiny and smooth surface. The combination of the two provides you with unparalleled beauty, a bendable piece, and something that is extremely strong. 

Sterling silver necklaces are able to hold charms and pendants of various sizes, styles, and weights as well. However, this silver necklace is often worn as is by both men and women. 

A sterling silver necklace is a timeless piece of jewelry that will never go out of style This kind of shiny necklace can be designed with high quality craftsmanship and design techniques that will provide you with a piece that you can not only treasure but pass down from one generation to another! If you want to learn more about a sterling silver necklace, read on throughout this guide. 

Meaning

The story behind the silver necklace is an interesting one. Originating back in the 12th century, silver coins were called, “Easterlings.” These coins were used to pay for cattle between the British and the Germans. In some time, Easterlings became the standard English currency. Eventually, the coin name was changed to a “Sterling.” Today, we call it sterling silver because it refers to the highest grade of silver that you can get! 

History

As stated, sterling was used back in the 12th century in Northern Germany. Traded in the form of coins, they were shiny, durable, and strong. They became the English form of currency before its durability and beauty became widely recognized. 

Eventually, sterling silver started appearing in silverware, candlesticks, and dinner plates. Easy to polish and shiny, there was something truly elegant about this precious metal. 

The metal was used at a fine dining table during the Victorian Era, because it was frowned upon to eat with just your hands alone. The silver forks, knives, and spoons were prestigious and luxurious for those who had it. 

During the years of 1840 and 1940, sterling silver surged. The metal was used in large serving pieces, in knives, and other kitchen utensils such as ladles. You could also see sterling silver being used to create coasters, napkin holders, and water pitchers!

Modern Touch

Today, silver is used for very special occasions since it is so precious and valuable. 

Because its value was noticed long ago, jewelry makers decided to use it to adorn the necks of those who were wealthy, high class, or who needed to be recognized or honored. Jewelers trusted the silver’s strength to hold a precious stone or gem. In addition to necklaces, sterling silver is a popular setting for engagement and wedding rings.

Currently, silver necklaces come in all kinds of shapes, lengths, sizes, and designs; and they can be casual or highly decorated and formal.

Minimalist Movement

In modern times, the minimalist movement is currently trendy. This movement focuses on the less is more approach. Rather than huge silver statement necklaces and jewelry worn from head to toe, minimalist showcases one key jewelry piece at a time. 

Today’s sterling silver necklaces are designed to be dainty and delicate. While the material itself is still strong and sturdy, women prefer to line their neck with silver necklaces that have a hammered finish or tiny, sparkling jewels. Many sterling silver necklaces worn today also feature a small monogram initial or an etching in a flat, polished surface that can connect to the necklace, in classic pendant style. 

Even for Kids

In addition to today’s current minimalist trend and sterling silver, many parents are giving their children a sterling silver necklace with their birthstone encased. This serves as a piece they can always hold on to and wear with anything since silver and birthstones are evergreen items and will always be in style. 

Finally, another trendy that is featured today with sterling silver necklaces is wearing them in different lengths. From a princess length to a rope length, different styles are being pieced together to create a cohesive look. 

When to Wear

Much like a gold necklace, it is appropriate to wear a silver necklace anywhere. From work, to home, and even special celebrations, sterling silver is all around us! Many heirloom pieces are passed down from one generation to another, and are often worn at special family affairs and events like weddings, funerals, baptisms, and to church. 

Sterling silver necklaces look beautiful when worn at holiday get togethers or special dinners. 

How to Style

Both men and women can wear sterling silver necklaces. Men can wear the necklace in the form of a chain. Some men prefer to wear it plain and simple, while others wear it adorned with a cross, a charm, or emblem.

Men can wear a silver necklace with a button down shirt, or even a crewneck tee. Silver necklaces also look great when worn with a blazer or a suit for special events. 

Silver necklaces for women can be worn with a v-neck top or a scoop neck top to get noticed. Women also prefer to layer longer silver strands with a boatneck top so that the silver necklaces demand attention. A woman silver necklace also looks nice when worn as is, simple and plain, underneath a ruffled dress or blouse. 

Great for Weddings Too

Many brides opt to wear sterling silver pieces because they are so shiny, bright, and beautiful. They perfectly offset diamonds and other vibrant and rare stones!

If you have a sterling silver necklace or plan to purchase one, you are sure to love it! Not only can it be worn with casual or formal attire, it will withstand everyday wear and will become your favorite piece of jewelry! 

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