Sterling and "Fine Jewelry"
Obviously by now, you've figured out that I have a jewelry passion (addiction?). But, let me expand on that. The key here is that my passion is for fine jewelry. So how is "fine jewelry" defined? I think I may have found the simpliest definition from Jewelry.com:
"Fine jewelry is typically made with precious materials such as gold, diamonds, and pearls. It is distinct from fashion jewelry, which tends to be made from inexpensive, commonplace materials such as brass."
Let me add the caveat here that, for me personally, the definition also includes an 'unsurpassed level of craftsmanship' as well. And on this blog, I only talk about fine jewelry - nothing plated or gold fill.
Which brings me to my next point, using the definition above, I would assume that sterling silver (i.e. 92.5% pure or also identified as .925 or STER) would be considered a precious metal. I have seen some stunning artistry and craftsmanship done in sterling silver. And, you're starting to see more and more fine jewelry designers embrace the medium. Stephen Webster is a perfect example! He often mixes sterling silver with yellow gold with great success.
So, I say, bring on the sterling! It has some amazing properties and like all good mediums, the finished product is only going to be as good the artist who created it!
"Fine jewelry is typically made with precious materials such as gold, diamonds, and pearls. It is distinct from fashion jewelry, which tends to be made from inexpensive, commonplace materials such as brass."
Let me add the caveat here that, for me personally, the definition also includes an 'unsurpassed level of craftsmanship' as well. And on this blog, I only talk about fine jewelry - nothing plated or gold fill.
Which brings me to my next point, using the definition above, I would assume that sterling silver (i.e. 92.5% pure or also identified as .925 or STER) would be considered a precious metal. I have seen some stunning artistry and craftsmanship done in sterling silver. And, you're starting to see more and more fine jewelry designers embrace the medium. Stephen Webster is a perfect example! He often mixes sterling silver with yellow gold with great success.
So, I say, bring on the sterling! It has some amazing properties and like all good mediums, the finished product is only going to be as good the artist who created it!
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| Stephen Webster Sterling Silver Superstud Cuff |
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| Thistle & Bee Cufflinks |
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| Sterling silver cuff with multiple sizes and shades of red coral at Cervini Haas Fine Art by Kim Rawdin. |
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