Sterling silver and stainless steel are two of the most widely used metals for jewelry.
The choice between sterling silver and stainless steel might be difficult when it comes to jewelry materials, particularly if you own a boutique or an online store.
Knowing the distinctions between the two materials will help you stock the appropriate items that satisfy the needs of your clients.
Let's investigate the differences between sterling silver and stainless steel to see which would be a better option.
Composition of the Material
What is jewelry made of stainless steel?
Iron, chromium, nickel, molybdenum, and other trace metals are all present in stainless steel.
The various grades of stainless steel jewelry—201, 304, 316L, etc.—are determined by the varying contents of these components.
In contrast to alloy jewelry due to lead and toxicity, stainless steel jewelry will not turn black like silver jewelry, nor will it resemble copper or other jewelry that is prone to allergies.
Sterling silver: what is it?
92.5% pure silver and 7.5% additional metals, typically copper, make up sterling silver.
The addition of copper hardens the metal, making it more suited for shaping into a variety of jewelry designs, while pure silver is too soft to be employed in most jewelry applications.
The purity level of sterling silver jewelry is indicated by the "925" mark.
Compared to stainless steel, sterling silver is more susceptible to some problems even though copper gives it the strength it needs.
Sturdiness and Upkeep
The durability of stainless steel
Stainless steel resists scratches quite well. Because of its firm surface, normal wear and tear is unlikely to leave noticeable blemishes.
Wearing stainless steel jewelry for extended periods of time, bumping into things, or rubbing against clothing can all cause it to lose its glossy, smooth appearance.
Furthermore, it will not rust even in the presence of moisture, perspiration, or strong chemicals because to its exceptional corrosion resistance.
Because of this, it's a fantastic choice for those who live in humid regions or lead active lives.
Upkeep of Jewelry Made of Stainless Steel
Jewelry made of stainless steel is easy to maintain.
Usually, all it takes to keep it appearing clean and bright is a quick wipe with a soft, dry cloth.
If it becomes dirty, you can clean it well and dry it after using a mild soap and water solution.
It won't tarnish with time and doesn't require any additional polishes or cleaners.
Sterling silver's resilience
In contrast to stainless steel, sterling silver is comparatively softer.
It is more prone to scratches, particularly when it comes into contact with harsh surfaces.
Some clients may be concerned by the softness of the metal, particularly those who are harsh on their jewelry, even though it is a durable metal when properly cared for.
Upkeep of Jewelry Made of Sterling Silver Sterling silver is susceptible to tarnish.
When silver combines with sulfur-containing materials in the air or from items like lotions and fragrances, a thin layer of silver sulfide known as tarnish is created on the silver's surface.
When not in use, sterling silver jewelry should be kept in airtight bags or containers to avoid tarnishing.
It can be repaired if it tarnishes.
A commercial silver cleaner or a silver cleaning cloth can be used. However, it's crucial to use gentleness because excessive polishing might eventually erode the metal.
Hypoallergenic Properties
Hypoallergenic qualities are important in the jewelry industry, particularly for people with sensitive skin.
Jewelry is often regarded as hypoallergenic if it includes less than 10% of reactive metals like nickel and copper.
Because stainless steel contains very little nickel, it is often regarded as hypoallergenic.
Because of this, wearing jewelry is safe for those who are allergic to nickel and they won't have to worry about getting irritated.
Is sterling silver hypoallergenic?
The short answer is: it depends. Generally speaking, the answer is yes. But there are some things to keep in mind.
It is hypoallergenic and safe for most people to wear.
Sterling silver is a popular choice in jewelry because of its affordability and elegance, and it is often labeled as hypoallergenic.
Cost & Value
Cost Comparison of Stainless Steel vs Sterling Silver
Stainless steel is a very cost-effective option.
The raw materials for stainless steel are relatively abundant, and the manufacturing process is not as complex or expensive as that for some other metals.
This makes stainless steel jewelry more affordable for retailers to stock and for customers to purchase.
It’s an excellent choice for those looking for stylish jewelry at a budget-friendly price.
