What is Sterling Silver ?
Silver is a soft metal in its pure form,too soft to be used for jewelry and other items,so its mixed with other metals to make it more durable.A popular silver mixture,called an alloy,is known as sterling silver.
The U.S. Federal Trade Commission stipulates that jewelry sold in the U.S. cannot be marked or described as silver,solid silver,sterling silver,sterling, or using the abbreviation ster. Unless it contains at least 92.5 persent pure silver.
The minimum silver content can also be stated as 925 parts per thousand of pure silver,so you might see the figures 925 or 92.5 used to mark silver content.
Copper Content
Copper is the most common metal used to round out the 7.5 percent alloy balance in sterling silver. It adds hardness to pure silver,but brings with it a tendency to tarnish--a darkening that occurs when sterling silver reacts with gases in the air or with other substances that it comes in contact with.
Storing Sterling Silver Jewelry
Store your Sterling Silver Jewelry in tarnish preventive cloths or zip lock bags. The treated cloth slows down the tarnishing process and keeps the jewelry from rubbing against harder jewelry that can scratch it.Try to keep your Sterling Silver Jewelry in a cool, dry place.
Cleaning your Sterling Silver Jewelry
Clean Sterling Silver Jewelry with a phosphate free detergent.A low abrasive cleaner,such as 3M Tarnish-Shield Silver polish,is a good choice for removing light tarnish.Some people use toothpaste to clean their sterling silver,but most experts caution against it because they feel toothpaste is too abrasive and leaves dulling scratches.
Sterling Silver Patina
Sterling Silver Jewelry that is worn continually often developes a lovely patina,a kind of glow combined with darkened areas.If you like the look, leave it alone. If you prefer a bright and shiny look for your Sterling Silver,use a polish or polishing cloth to restore the jewelry to its origanal look. | 
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