You will notice that I work primarily with Argentium silver. So, what's so great about it? And how does it differ from Sterling?
Sterling silver
Many artist/makers in the jewelry industry work with Sterling silver, which was around long before Argentium silver was invented.
Sterling silver takes patina extemely well. Patina purposely speeds up the oxidation process, darkening a metal's outer surface via a chemical process, usually with liver of sulfur. This creates an attractive dark patina, which consists of a layer of silver sulfide on the exterior of the metal. This is an excellent treatment for Sterling, because it oxidizes so quickly--and oxidized, untreated Sterling silver is an unattractive, brownish colour.
Argentium silver
Argentium silver has 1-1.5% less copper than Sterling sterling. While it can be patinated, it does not turn as dark.
Argentium also contains a small amount of germanium, which slows the natural oxidation process. This results in its following characteristics:
- Antibacterial and hypoallergenic
- Tarnish resistant
- 93.5% (.935) silver (94% going forward)
- Nickel free
- 100% recycled
- Whitest precious metal
Let's take a closer look at these characteristics:
Antibacterial, hypoallergenic, and nickel free:
A surprisingly large number of people have a metal allergy. Higher copper content and nickel both contribute to this. Argentium has been rated as hypoallergenic. Even some people allergic to 14/20 gold can wear Argentium silver without any reaction.
Tarnish Resistant:
The germanium in Argentium silver slows the tarnishing process.
100% recycled:
Argentium is produced from 100% recycled silver, making it environmentally friendly.
Whitest precious metal:
Argentium silver's bright silver colour makes it ideal for formal and dress-up occasions, including weddings.
Argentium Silver can also be fused to itself and other precious metals. This avoids unsightly solder joins and reduces clean-up time.
These benefits make Argentium silver better for the end wearer and gentler on the environment, as fewer chemicals are used in production.
I'm a fan!