Stainless steel and sterling silver are so similar in appearance that it is difficult to tell them apart. Although both stainless steel and sterling silver are alloying metals, they differ in composition, durability, versatility, weight, maintenance, and price. As for jewelry, stainless steel and sterling silver are the most popular choices. But how do they compare?

In this article, you will be taught to identify all the basic differences between stainless steel and sterling silver.

Composition and Properties

The main difference between stainless steel and sterling silver is the composition of the two alloys. As they have distinctive metal compositions, their properties differ from each other as well.

What Is Stainless Steel?

Stainless steel is an iron and chromium alloy that is often used in jewelry.  While some grades have additional metals, which can cause irritation, the stainless steel we use in our jewelry is hypoallergenic.

Pros of Stainless Steel

• Corrosion-resistant
• Harder construction
• Increased durability
• Scratch-resistant
• Gives off a nicer shine compared to silver
• Versatile
• More affordable compared to silver
• Ideal for daily use
• Easy and low-maintenance cleaning

Cons of Stainless Steel

• Cannot easily be repaired when damaged
• Can trigger allergic reactions in some people

What Is Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver, like its friends gold and platinum, is a precious metal.

Often stamped with a 925 to signify its composition, sterling silver is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper alloy.  In comparison to pure silver, which is too soft to be used in jewelry, sterling silver is loved for its beauty and versatility.

Pros of Sterling Silver

• It’s a precious metal yet more affordable than gold or platinum.
• Offers more malleability and versatility
• Easy to create intricate designs with it
• Can easily be cleaned and restored to its former glory
• Can easily be repaired in case of damages
• Offers a nice lustre for jewellery which can add a touch of elegance to your appearance

Cons of Sterling Silver

• More prone to damages like scratches due to its inherent softness
• More prone to tarnishing compared to stainless steel
• Tends to cost more than stainless steel

Caring for Sterling Silver

• Cleaning Methods

As sterling silver can easily get scratched and is also prone to tarnishing, regular cleaning and polishing is crucial.  There are a few ways to care for your sterling silver jewelry.

• Dish Soap and Water:At least once a week, it’s recommended to soak sterling silverjewelry in some dish soap and warm water and let it sit for at least 10-15 minutes.  Then rinse the accessories with warm water and dry them with a clean microfiber cloth.  This is an effective technique that removes any dirt and grime buildup from sterling silver.
• Vinegar and Baking Soda:If soapy water doesn’t work, it’s most likely because sterling silver has tarnished.  In this case, a solution of vinegar, lukewarm water, and baking soda will quickly restore your jewelry or tableware.  Let the sterling silver soak for an hour or two and give it a good rinse before drying.
• Lemon Juice and Baking Soda:As an alternative, you can mix some lemon juice with baking soda and use a soft-bristle brush to gently clean the sterling silver.  This method will help you remove dirt and oil buildup while getting rid of that stubborn tarnish.

Anti-Tarnish Solution: While cleaning sterling silver is important, protecting the alloy is just as crucial.  Anti-tarnish solutions have been specially developed to create a protective film on the surface of the sterling silver and prevent it from tarnishing.

• Storage Tips

Properly storing sterling silver jewelry is one of the most effective ways to minimize damage and extend its life.

When storing the sterling silver, you should keep the area completely dry.  Ensure that the jewelry is stored away from excessive exposure to air, light, moisture, or extreme temperatures.

As sterling silver is relatively soft, it may easily get scratched when stored with other jewelry.  Try to store the sterling silver in individual pouches or in a multi-compartment jewelry organizer.

Ideally, you should store sterling silver in a tarnish-proof cloth that keeps the items clean, bright, and shining.  This will also reduce the need for endless cleaning and polishing.

Caring for Stainless Steel

• Maintenance Techniques

Stainless steel is easier to maintain than sterling silver.  You don’t need any fancy tools or concentrated cleaning solutions to keep the glossy finish.

A mixture of dish soap and warm water should be enough to thoroughly clean the stainless steel.  Just fill up a bowl with warm, soapy water and soak the jewelry or other items for as long as it takes to remove dirt and grime.  To finalize, rinse with clean water and dry with a soft cloth.

As stainless steel doesn’t tarnish, there’s no need to use acidic solutions or alkaline baking soda for cleaning.  If you feel like your stainless steel jewelry requires some good cleaning, then feel free to use vinegar or lemon juice mixed with baking soda.

• Tips to Avoid Damage

Although stainless steel is durable, doesn’t scratch easily, and has excellent corrosion resistance, it’s still recommended to avoid using harsh chemicals or abrasive brushes.

A gentle cloth and a mild cleaning solution will be enough to thoroughly clean your stainless steel jewelry and keep it maintained.

• Sterling Silver Durability

Sterling silver is easier to bend and cut creating intricate pieces of jewelry.Sterling silver jewelry needs extra care. It will tarnish if kept in the open air or if kept safely in a jewelry box. You will need to clean and polish it often. If let to sit for too long, it will create a patina which may become difficult to clean. Silver is also a softer metal making it more susceptible to damage if worn daily. Sterling silver is hypoallergenic unless it is mixed with nickel which is a highly allergenic metal. Be sure to purchase sterling silver from a reputable jeweler as some will be mixed with nickel.

Although sterling silver is not as durable as stainless steel, proper care and handling can extend its life.

The key here is to avoid wearing your silver jewelry while swimming, exercising, or being involved in any sort of physical activity.

• Stainless Steel Durability

The duability of stainless steel is what allows it to withstand the wear and tear of everyday activities, which can otherwise damage a ring.  Apart from its durability and low maintenance, stainless steel is a great material for jewelry because it can have a variety of finishes, including brushed, engraved, matte, and glossy.

You can safely shower with your stainless steel jewelry and wash your hands while wearing a stainless steel ring without getting any damage on the metal.  Wear your jewelry in the pool or the ocean, and rest assured there will be no damage ot the jewelry.

For these reasons, stainless steel jewelry has become more popular in recent year.  It has become one of the top choices for wedding bands and engagement rings. The metal is completely safe and hypoallergenic.Earrings labeled hypoallergenic will usually have the post made in steinless steel.Cleaning your stainless steel jewelry is also very simple. Just a little soap and water and wipe with a soft cloth.

Conclusion

Both sterling silver and stainless steel offer the chance to wear beautiful jewelry.  Which material you choose should depend on whether you will be wearing the jewelry daily and how likely the piece is to be damaged.  If you are looking to invest in jewelry that will appreciate in value, to leave as an heirloom or as a gift, silver is the ideal choice.  If you want a functional piece that can withstand the demands of everyday life while still looking good, stainless steel is a great alternative.

If you still can't choose between stainless steel and pure silver, perhaps you should consult a jewelry expert. At Zuanfa Jewelry, our experienced jewelers can provide you with advice on which metals and jewelry to choose.