Sterling Silver Chains

Silver is too soft to work with, therefore it is alloyed with metals such as copper. Sterling silver is an alloy which contains 92.5% silver, it is tarnish resistant and can be used to make jewelry like sterling silver chains.

Metals are most commonly used in jewelry to make chains. Sterling silver chains are minimalist but elegant. They can be used just as they are or they can be embellished with beads and gemstones. Sterling silver chains can be used to make layered necklaces or open scarf-like necklaces called lariats.

These dainty chains can be used in designs for men, women and children. What’s more, they are affordable. You must look for chains that meet the highest quality standards though, like the ones manufactured in the USA, Italy and Japan. Jewelry designers have a great variety to choose from when it comes to chains.

For example the box chain which is made with interconnected rectangular links, the rope chain which is made with two strands of metal woven together so that it resembles a rope, and the Figaro chain which consists of alternating large rectangular and smaller circular links. Every large link is followed by three small links.

An ever expanding global market has influenced the versatility of the jewelry making industry. Sterling silver chains are available in French and Italian designs all across the globe. They were introduced in the Renaissance period and they resurfaced with the Hip Hop culture.

You cannot classify these chains under any particular genre though, because they are available in so many styles. Among the different types of chains available, the curb chain, the flat cable chain, the Rolo chain, the ball chain, the figure eight chain and the crinkle chain are in vogue.

Sterling silver chains are ideal for lockets. They also look exceptional with pendants made from pearls and gemstones. They can be used with cross and dog tag pendants as well. Sold by the foot, you can purchase up to 50 feet or more of sterling silver chains at once.

If you buy them online, you are likely to obtain them at a steal. Many jewelry supply stores online offer sterling silver chains at special discounts. You can also acquire other material like clasps and beads from these shops. Nevertheless, make sure you trust your supplier.

As a designer you have a reputation to maintain; even as sterling silver chains don’t make the finished piece by themselves, any discrepancy in quality will be noticeable. These chains are long lasting and lightweight, which is a great advantage. This weightlessness allows you to turn your plain chains into fancy accessories like long earrings.

You can also find unique patterns such as heart-shaped chains which can be used to make bracelets and key chains. These chains are likely to appeal to teenage girls. Sterling silver resembles precious metals like platinum and white gold. For that reason these chains are used to make imitation jewelry.

They are also used for making gorgeous waist chains, whether subtle or striking. Besides that, designers often embellish fashion accessories like bags and boots with several dangles of sterling silver chains.

Jewelry is as much about comfort and individuality as it is about style, when you make ornaments with sterling silver chains consider the factor of ease. Would your customer be able to wear your jewelry often or would it lie hidden in his or her closet?

Make sure your work is wearable and not just a pretty keepsake. Always advise your customers to store Sterling silver chains in separate Ziploc bags so that they don’t get entangled or spoilt.

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Metals are most commonly used in jewelry to make chains. Sterling silver chains are minimalist but elegant. They can be used just as they are or they can be embellished with beads and gemstones.

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