Why Sterling Silver is not a Popular Choice for Engagement Rings

Sterling silver is a popular metal type in the world of jewellery owing to its relatively high durability and malleability have made it a preferred choice. However in the world of fine jewellery: such as engagement rings, gemstone necklaces and bracelets and other types of rings, sterling silver has not been able to make its mark. Especially when it comes to engagement rings, which are at the top in the fine jewellery industry. Here we will outline the main reasons why silver, whilst popular in the jewellery world, are not used in the making of engagement rings, and fine jewellery in general; so what you the customer need to know when making purchasing decision when it comes to precious metals.

What is Sterling Silver

Sterling silver differs from real silver or pure silver in terms of its alloy character. Real silver contains a purity level that is close to 99.9 per cent and is too soft for use as jewellery. To make it more durable for jewellery, silver is mixed with metals like copper, zinc or nickel; which strengthen it, making it more malleable and strong. Sterling silver is an alloy that is generally about 92.5% pure. Other types of silver which are in use, include coin silver with another type of composite alloy that is less pure than sterling silver. The origins of sterling silver go back to the 12^th century in Germany, with its official recognition coming during the reign of King Henry II, which soon became recognised for its colour and durability, a name that was derived from the term ‘Easterling’ coins. Sterling silver soon became popular over the years, notably their use in silver cutlery, with the adoption in jewellery going back hundreds of years, but only sparsely owing to the softness, until sterling silver became more widespread, and today is used mainly in making basic jewellery items.

Sterling Silver’s Susceptibility to Wear and Tear

Engagement Rings, unlike other jewels, are often worn constantly throughout the year. Unless some special situation demands it, engagement rings tend not to come off. In which case, the ring’s ability to withstand constant use, the effects of the elements and other types of environmental effects are paramount. Sterling silver, which is made by mixing pure silver with various types of other metals, at varying percentages. Unlike platinum which is highly durable and withstands impacts better, silver is very soft and depending on the quality of the sterling silver alloy it may not be the best option for the rougher and tumble.

Sterling Silver Oxidizes Faster

One of the main shortfalls of sterling silver is its propensity for oxidisation. Whilst sterling silver is known to maintain its sheen in controlled environments, depending on the type used, the vocation of the wearer (i.e. someone who works outdoors or comes into contact with chemicals) the metal has the tendency to tarnish fast in contrast to the more expensive variants. In practice, sterling silver does get affected more greatly, and it is generally advised to not wear it when working with other metals, and when coming to contact with water, and even overexposure to direct sunlight can accelerate this effect. 

Lack of Options in Pre Designed Sterling Silver Rings

One of the main downsides when going for sterling silver engagement rings is the sheer lack of purchasing options. Fine jewellery makers who tend to feature a number of set ring designs, generally do not showcase many pre-made rings for potential ring customers to choose from, which leaves the customer to opt for custom made ring options. The lack of pre-made designs is also an indication of the lack of enthusiasm on part of the jeweller to make rings of sterling silver, and in some cases, the jewellery may not have the capabilities to produce sterling silver engagement rings with gemstones. And finally, sterling silver rings lose out in terms of ring styles, such two toned engagement rings which combine two metal types, are not too likely to be found in this particular metal range.

Labour Costs and Custom Engagement Rings

Engagement ring making is a technical process that involves the skills of talented craftsmen and involves a period of time that involves the process of making it. From an economic perspective, the making of a sterling silver engagement ring would generally take the same if not more time, owing to the complexity in working with the soft, and malleable character of silver, the labour costs are better spent in making a gold or platinum ring, as the final value of the ring is going to be greater. So if one chooses to go with a custom made engagement ring, it is worth going for a more valuable metal like gold, for the costs of making them would remain virtually the same and at times may sometimes be more when it comes to sterling silver, owing to the difficulty in working with this particular metal type. 

Sterling Silver is Less Well Recognized in the Fine Jewellery

Among the most notable reason for sterling silver’s lack of popularity in the world of fine jewellery is its lack of recognition. Sterling silver, unlike gold, including its top variants: white gold, yellow gold, and pink gold, matched by the premium platinum, and to lesser extent palladium is not renowned for its distinct value. Despite being a popular metal choice, it does not hold the same kind of appeal among jewellery makers and customers, who wish for a more premium option when it comes to their choice of fine jewellery. For it is important to note that sterling silver is a popular metal choice when it comes to jewellery, and some customers may be tempted to think of them as a viable fine jewellery alternative, and some jewellers actually do provide sterling silver options when it comes to fine jewels like engagement rings. However gold remains the top choice for engagement rings, along with a number of platinum variants that continue to dominate this particular market.