The popularity of silver jewelry can be traced for thousands of years. Ancient civilizations used this element as coins for commerce, as weapons for warfare and as jewelry for adornment.
Yet, the classic popularity of sterling silver is getting challenged by a brand new kind of metal: 316L Stainless steel.
Sterling silver jewelry is getting old, many would say. Though it is still extremely popular among those who like the classic look and finish of the metal, many are now getting tired of sterling silver jewelry due to its high maintenance. As it grows older, sterling silver jewelry tarnishes, its finish turning duller and fainter. To maintain its initial luster would require frequent cleaning and polishing.
Silver is a soft metal on its own that is why it needs to be fused with other metals to make it much stronger. Yet, even if it is combined with other metals, silver still has less durability due to its “precious” status preventing it from containing more than 7.5% of other metals which could have strengthen the alloy. It is more susceptible even to simple dents, bumps and scratches.
But unlike sterling silver jewelry, 316L stainless steel jewelry has little to no maintenance at all. Due to its metallic composition, 316L stainless steel jewelry possesses the ability to resist tarnish, stain and corrosion.
316L Stainless steel jewelry is also strong and durable enough to be invulnerable to physical damages. It has a protective passivation layer composed of chromium (III) oxide which makes 316L stainless steel jewelry impervious to water and air. This layer, which is too thin to be visible to the naked eye, can protect the metal from dents and bumps. The passivation layer on 316L stainless steel jewelry also has the ability to quickly protect the surfaces in case something does happen to the metal. 316L Stainless steel jewelry does resemble sterling silver but with a lot more to offer than just being precious. With its lasting durability, low maintenance plus a style that will not disappoint, it is possible to see a day when stainless steel jewelry becomes a choice above sterling silver.
