Sterling silver has long been sought after for not only jewelry, such as Silver Chandelier earrings or Silver Dangle earrings, but for flatware and tableware. Producers of musical instruments use Sterling Silver to produce instruments because they feel their instruments sound more pleasing to the ear. It was originally called Easterling silver because it was used in Easterling, Germany as one of their forms of legal tender.
In the 12th Century, silver coins used for commerce in Easterling, Germany were graded as 92.5% silver. This particular grade of silver has a great hardness and quality as well. As time passed, England decided to have Easterling, Germany produce coins for their country. This silver currency was known as Tealby pennies. Eventually, Easterling Silver dropped part of its name to Sterling Silver, and it retains the name to this day. Although Sterling Silver isn’t used to produce currency anymore, it is still used to create fine silver jewelry, such as Silver Chandelier Earrings or Silver Dangle Earring, and other decorative objects.
For centuries, Silver has long been used to decorate both homes and individuals. In the early days, Silver jewelry was pure silver; however, it was prone to tarnish, and its soft nature meant it often lost its shape or was easily damaged. Due to this, Sterling Silver, which is .925 pure silver mixed with other metals such as copper and zinc, was a much better choice to use to make jewelry. Sterling Silver Jewelry is harder and less prone to tarnish, and if it is covered in Rhodium or another heavy metal, Sterling Silver is easy to clean and take care of.
Two particular styles of earrings that originally hit the fashion scene back in the 1920’s were the Chandelier earring and the Dangle earring. They have been regaining their popularity over the past few years. Chandelier earrings, such as Sterling Silver Chandelier Earrings, have multi-level branches that hang down from an earring base. Usually, gemstone briolettes, which are tear drop shaped gems, hang from the branches.
A Dangle Earring, such as a Sterling Silver Dangle Earring, has one larger gemstone, geometric shape, or charm that hangs from an earring base that may be a French hook or post, and it is usually facing frontward. Some Sterling Silver Dangle Earrings combine a charm and a gemstone; however, the basic design of the dangle requires the earring to hang in a straight line from base to end.
One of the most important aspects to keep in mind when selecting a pair of earrings is comfort. Although an earring may be beautiful or that perfect accessory for an outfit, if it is too heavy for extended wear, it will probably end up sitting in your jewelry box!
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