Sterling silver is rich and easy
to mould which made it appealing to be used for making ornamental objects to decorate the surroundings
and the person. Eventually it was used to manufacture objects for daily use such as tea sets,
trays, cutlery, candlesticks, and more. Sterling silver has always been considered as a symbol of
comfortable living, if not
just downright wealth. For centuries craftsmen have been
working silver and making things which have been sought out by museums and private collectors. The
designs have changed, reflecting the individual taste of a changing society. It has retained its
position of prominence, bringing charm and elegance to homes throughout the
world.
Silver is one of the most useful metals and has uses in
decorative arts, industry, and even photography. It is the best conductor of electricity and heat and is
used to make coins, bullion, jewelry, silverware, and photographic film. The normal concentration of
silver used in coins is 90% with 10% copper for added strength. During the 19th century silver jewelry
became more affordable because of advances in technology. Electroplating was invented. Tiffany
& Co. began producing silverware in New York in the mid 1850s. The Navajo tribes of American
southwest began working silver around the same time and passed their skills onto the other tribes by the
1870s.
Sterling silver jewelry in the 21st century is sought after and
affordable to all people.
