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!#8# How to Tell If Your Silver Jewelry is Genuine Or Fake - Tips & Tests

Silver Jewelry - how to tell if it's real or fake

Quality jewelry is made with the best materials. Its value is not compromised by using inferior metals or shoddy craftsmanship. When purchasing sterling silver jewelry, you want to be assured that it is authentic. You want to feel certain that your piece is the capability you expect for the price that you paid.

A beloved Trend

Silver jewelry has become a first-rate in term of fashion standards. It coordinates with every outfit and can be worn for all occasions. From weddings, business lunches, a day of shopping with friends to evening dates, silver accessories will look great. New styles incorporating larger pendants on sterling silver chains are a hot trend currently. This jewelry is an venture in capability that stands the time of time. A few pieces can accessorize your wardrobe beautifully. Designs can range from neutral or eye-catching.

925 Stamp - It's the Law

It is the law that metal must be identified by the maker and the metal quality. Revised Section 295 of Volume 15 of the United States Code is generally known as the National Gold and Silver Marking Act, went into corollary October 1, 1981. It set requirements for gold and silver markings that must be followed. The mark for sterling silver will either be stamped "sterling" or the whole 925. 925 refer to 92.5% silver which is considered sterling. The location of the stamp varies depending on the type of jewelry. The stamp on necklaces is regularly on the clasp. On rings and bracelets, the stamps are regularly on the inside of the sterling silver jewelry piece.

Acid Test

Cheap imitations of jewelry (including chains) have flooded the market. Consumers are justified in their wariness of claims that jewelry is real. Out of necessity, a nitric test has been advanced that can settle if a piece is real or fake. This test can be done by yourself, but it is recommend that you have a local jeweler achieve it due to their expertise. It is done by vigorously rubbing a certain portion of the silver jewelry that you want to test. Try to pick an area that is not noticeable. Then apply a few drops of nitric acid onto the scratched surface. The results will settle if your piece is real or fake. If the liquid turns green, the item is only silver plated. If the liquid turns a cloudy grey color, this piece is guaranteed sterling silver.

Only Buy from Trusted Sources

It is foremost to buy sterling silver jewelry from trusted sources. These sources can range from neighborhood jewelers to reliable online retailers. If possible, check out a company's reputation. Find out from friends where they purchased their jewelry and what kind of experiences have they had with single retailers. A trusted jeweler can even appraise any jewelry that you currently have. He or she can tell you if single pieces are real or fake.

By taking the suitable steps, you can be assured that your silver jewelry is both genuine and high quality.