Thursday, April 2, 2009

Designer Silver Bracelets Are All the Rage


By Art Barron

Back in the old days, jewelry was worn as a symbol of power, status, and wealth. Many of these jewelry, especially bracelets, were commonly used for trade because they were so handy. Up until the Age of Metal, bracelets were made of wood, clay, and stone, but that all changed with the passing of time.

Metal not only provides luster, shine, durability, and strength, but will often allow much room for design possibilities. In their purest form, metals like gold and silver are soft and malleable. And though the higher the purity, the more expensive it gets, that doesn't really mean that the jewelry piece you are getting is the best.

Don't Always Go for the Gold

Among all metals, there's no denying that gold is, by far, the most popular. Its prices vary, depending on where they came from, so consumers won't have difficulties buying one for their own. But trailing not that far behind are designer silver bracelets. Not only are they beautiful in their own right, but they are basically friendlier to the pocket, compared to platinum and gold.

From delicate filigrees to solid blocks and in cuffs, links, beads or charms styles, designer silver bracelets adhere to the accepted formula of 92.5 per cent purity in silver content. This way, the bracelet is sure to hold the design, maintain its luster, and be workable during the process of designing it. Be sure to look for that 925 mark, or "sterling silver" (sterling or ster also acceptable) on the designer silver bracelet to be assured of the high quality of your jewelry.

Making Silver Last Longer

The care and maintenance of designer silver bracelets is relatively easy, depending upon the design. Most will survive on metal polishers and some buffing, while others may need to be dipped in silver cleaning solutions. Most of these products contain abrasives, though, and will leave fine lines on the surface. As for keeping the designer silver bracelet in good condition when not in use, storage is simple enough. Put these in airtight containers and silvercloths to avoid tarnishing. Polishing before storage is also not necessary.

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