Sterling Silver: A Modern Essential

When it comes to building a jewellery collection that lasts — in both style and quality — sterling silver stands in a league of its own. It’s the kind of material that can keep up with your everyday life, while adding a quiet glow to your look. But what exactly is sterling silver? And why is it so widely loved?
Let’s break it down.

What Is Sterling Silver, Really?

Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver, blended with 7.5% other metals (usually copper). This combination gives silver the strength it needs to be worn regularly — without losing its signature shine.

Pure silver alone is too soft for most jewellery applications. By adding a small percentage of copper, we get a precious metal that’s durable, malleable, and timeless. That’s where the term “925 silver” comes from — a mark of quality and authenticity.

Is Sterling Silver Hypoallergenic?

We get this question a lot — especially from those with sensitive skin. Yes, 925 sterling silver is generally considered hypoallergenic, meaning it's unlikely to cause allergic reactions in most people.It contains no added nickel (a common allergen), and the simple metal blend makes reactions rare. Still, very sensitive skin types may react to trace metals or even the silver itself — though that’s uncommon. Like with skincare, everyone’s different. For most, sterling silver is a safe, everyday choice.

Will Sterling Silver Tarnish?

Yes — all silver tarnishes over time, but there's good news: at LÉA, all of our sterling silver pieces are rhodium plated, making them more resistant to tarnish than untreated silver.

Tarnish is a natural reaction between silver and the air, moisture, or chemicals it encounters (like perfume, sweat, or chlorine). It often begins as
a light yellowing, then darkens if left unpolished. But don’t worry — rhodiu adds a protective layer that slows this process significantly, so your jewellery stays luminous for longer.

But here’s the good news:

Tarnish is temporary and completely surface-level.

Everyday Tarnish? Wipe with a soft cloth. Gentle cleaners are all you need.

Deeper Tarnish? Use a silver-safe cleaning fluid (sparingly). Rinse thoroughly and avoid using these on any stones or shell details.

How to Care for Sterling Silver (Without Overthinking It)

Sterling silver is one of those rare materials that actually looks better with wear. Your skin’s natural oils help protect it from tarnish. But a little mindful care goes a long way.

The LÉA Silver Care Checklist:

  •  Wear it often – your skin’s oils are your silver’s best friend
  • Wash with warm water + mild soap + soft brush
  • Store in airtight bags to prevent oxidation
  • Remove before swimming, showering, or applying perfume/lotion
  •  Avoid sweating in it – salt can corrode silver
  • Sleep safe – take off delicate pieces at night
Silver jewelry including rings and earrings on a light blue background with starfish and shells.

Sterling Silver vs Stainless Steel Jewellery

A common alternative to sterling silver is stainless steel jewellery. While both metals are silver coloured and durable, there are key differences:
  • Silver is a precious metal, while stainless steel is an alloy of base metals.
  • Silver has a warm, bright glow, while stainless steel has a cooler, more industrial look.
  • Sterling silver can tarnish, but it’s easy to clean and is just a surface layer on top of the precious metal.
  • Stainless steel doesn't tarnish, however, while it is rust resistant, it can still rust. Rust is corrosive and damages the metal surface.
  • Silver holds its value over time, whereas stainless steel jewellery has minimal value.
  • Stainless steel can be heavy to wear as it's a more dense metal than silver.
  • While stainless steel is low-maintenance, sterling silver wins on beauty, value, and longevity — it’s a material with soul.

Sterling Silver vs Silver Plated Jewellery

  • Jewellery that is silver plated will be less expensive than solid sterling silver jewellery, but for minimal savings you'll likely be buying yourself some problems.
  • Sterling silver is a solid precious metal, while silver plating is a usually very thin layer of silver over the top of a base metal.
  • With care, sterling silver will look great and clean easily for years to come, while a plated finish can fairly easily wear through to the usually unknown metal underneath.
  • Solid sterling silver holds its value over time, whereas plated silver jewellery will have minimal value.
  • Sterling silver is more expensive, but it's not a very expensive precious metal like solid gold, so it's easier to invest in. Savings from purchasing plated silver jewellery instead won't be that great.

Final Thoughts: Why We Choose Sterling Silver

At LÉA, we love jewellery that lives with you — the kind you reach for again and again. Sterling silver is that kind of metal.

It’s precious without being precious.

Luxurious without being loud.

Timeless, wearable, and quietly confident.

  • 92.5% real silver blended for strength
  • Safe for most skin types
  • Tarnish is natural — and manageable
  • Holds value over time
  • Affordable investment in a forever piece

Your collection deserves pieces that last — and grow more personal with time. That’s the beauty of sterling silver.

Climber Marquise Barbell Studs In Silver

STERLING SILVER

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