aventurine copper and sterling silver necklace

For the Love of Mixed Metal Jewelry🥰 Sterling Silver ✨Copper ✨Brass

I love mixing metals together for dimension and originality!  To me, it represents nature that isn't  always the norm; maybe something unexpected and an appreciation of beauty unique to the beholder. 

 

Sterling Silver (92.5% Sterling Silver & 7.5% other metals)

Sterling silver jewelry is known for its shiny appearance, versatility, and ability to complement a wide range of styles. It is a great choice for affordable yet elegant jewelry pieces. However, it may tarnish over time, but regular cleaning and care can help maintain its beauty.

Sterling silver offers an attractive balance between affordability, quality and durability. It provides a more budget-friendly option compared to precious metals like gold or platinum while still maintaining a sophisticated appearance.
The addition of other metals, typically copper, in sterling silver enhances its durability and strength.

Sterling Silver can be polished to a bright shiny luster or have patina to ‘antique’ the metal and give it some dimension.

While sterling silver may tarnish over time due to exposure to air and moisture, its tarnishing is usually slower compared to other silver alloys. Regular cleaning and maintenance can help preserve its shine, making it a practical choice for those who value longevity.

Sterling silver is generally hypoallergenic, making it a suitable option for individuals with sensitive skin. This quality is especially important for earrings and other jewelry items that come in direct contact with the skin.

 

Brass (Copper 66% and Zinc 44%)

A durable metal that is resistant to corrosion and rust, which means with the proper care it can last a long time. Brass is an alloy made up of copper and zinc and is much sturdier than sterling silver and gold. It also has the integrity of being solid all the way through, unlike gold-plated and gold filled.

Brass is much more affordable than gold and can give you that beautiful gold shine without breaking the bank

Brass can have a unique vintage pattern over time, giving it a rustic look and some people even prefer the more aged look of brass.

Copper

As a base metal, copper is often chosen for its reddish-brown hue, which can range from bright and shiny to a deep, rich patina over time. Its warm tones complement a variety of other metals, making it a popular choice for mixed metal designs.
Copper has a distinct reddish-brown color, which can be polished to a bright shine or left to develop a natural patina over time. While copper can tarnish over time, it is generally durable and resistant to corrosion. Applying a protective coating or choosing a mixed metal over precious metals like gold or platinum, copper is more affordable, making it an attractive option for both jewelry designers and consumers.

Copper blends well with various metals such as silver, brass, and bronze, offering artists the opportunity to create visually appealing contrasts in mixed metal jewelry. Combining copper with other metals can result in eye-catching designs that showcase the unique characteristics of each material.

 

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