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Bulgari Sterling Silver Ring

Sterling silver has historically been in the shadow of gold jewelry but today more consumers as well as industries are recognizing silver as an important commodity. As a result sterling silver jewelry has gained interest by consumers looking for a mixture of affordability and beauty in their decorative wear.

The value of sterling silver is rising. Once as low as $4 per ounce in 2001, silver has shown the ability to dramatically increase in value topping $49 per ounce in 1980. There is resurgence of interest in sterling silver jewelry especially as more manufacturers such as Tiffany and Co. focus attention on silver jewelry product lines. The quality of silver when coated with rhodium, a precious metal, can rival white gold in shine and sharpness.

Sterling silver has been used for thousands of years in dining utensils, ornaments and as coinage in numerous monetary systems. In fact, the word “silver” can be translated in 14 different languages as “money”. Silver, as a precious metal has the highest electrical conductivity of all metals including copper. Its use is not widespread in all things electrical, however, due to its costliness and tendency to tarnish, although because of its high conductivity it is commonly found in computer parts. Sterling silver has always played second fiddle to gold, generally, but there are a few societies in history, such as ancient Egypt and the middle ages in Europe, where sterling silver jewelry was considered more valuable than gold.

Today, silver is used for both practical purposes as well as for fashion accessories in the form of jewelry. Practically, it is used most in the area of photography as silver nitrate, a corrosive light sensitive ingredient used in film. Silver is also used to produce the highly reflective surfaces of mirrors through a process called silvering. The practical nature and application of silver is apparent not only to industrial types but to the average consumer. Silver jewelry, given its beauty, quality and inexpensiveness has become a highly sought after commodity. rings, earrings, bracelets, pendants and necklaces all are available as sterling silver jewelry. Often jewelry collectors will offset their gold purchases with silver jewelry. The more expensive items are worn only periodically whereas silver jewelry is perfect for daily use.

The quality of silver jewelry products has increased over time. Usually featuring cubic zirconia, silver jewelry is as diverse in style and design as diamonds and gold. Silver jewelry trends closely follow gold trends as promoted by fashion houses and celebrities. Retailers have sprung up online catering to this growing interest. The level of craftsmanship with sterling silver jewelry gives its wearers the ability to accessorize with silver for any occasion. From black tie affairs to home parties, there is no doubt we are experiencing the rise of sterling silver jewelry.