Shine On with Silver Jewelry

Silver: The Star Metal

Silver is a precious white metal that is highly conductive and malleable. Being very soft and receptive to polish, silver was used during ancient times to create tableware with intricate designs and a mirror-like shine. Come 12th century Europe, it was discovered that silver could be alloyed with other metals to create a more durable and useful material known today as sterling silver.

Initially, sterling silver was used to make monetary coins. Early Norman sterling silver pennies were typically imprinted with small stars, which many believed that the word “sterling” came from the Old English word “steorling,” meaning “with a little star.” By mid-19th century, sterling silver became popular in jewelry making. And today, it has already made its mark on Art Nouveau design and modern fashion — different types of silver jewelry, one sparkling precious metal.