Why is argentium silver better than sterling silver?

What is argentium silver?

Argentium silver is a luxury high-karat silver developed within the last one hundred years. There are a number of benefits that make working with Argentium a joy. There are also attributes that make it beautiful to wear.

How is argentium different from sterling silver?

Argentium offers six main advantages over traditional sterling silver:

1. It's estimated to be 25% stronger than sterling silver. It's added strength helps to protect jewelry from scratches and damage.
2. It's more pure than sterling because it contains more actual silver. The content of argentium is .960 or .935 while sterling is .925.
3. The color is whiter and brighter than that of sterling silver and white gold.
4. It’s ideal for those with metal allergies because it's hypoallergenic, antibacterial and 100% nickel-free.
5. It is tarnish-resistant so it stays nice looking much longer before cleaning.
6. It's environmentally sustainable.

How is argentium silver an environmentally sustainable metal?

The only silver used to produce argentium is recycled and refined. Sterling silver is made with a mix of silver and copper. But argentium’s patented formulation contains another ingredient called Germanium, which creates a self-healing, protective layer on the surface. When heating jewelry during production, the jeweler typically must remove fire scale that forms on traditional silver. But argentium doesn't produce fire scale, therefore the production does not release harsh toxic chemicals into the environment. 

How to take care of your argentium silver jewelry.

While there is no such thing as tarnish-free silver, we've already mentioned that argentium silver is very hard to tarnish, and it takes a long time. This is because argentium is highly resistant to pollution, perspiration and UV light. When tarnish eventually occurs, simply wipe with a microfiber cloth.

Do not use a dip silver cleaner or polish on argentium silver. I also recommend that you remove your jewelry before using a swimming pool, hot tub, natural hot springs and/or doing activities that may put you in contact with chemicals.

In summary, it's more durable, hypoallergenic, and has a brighter finish that's hard to tarnish. It's beautiful and a joy to wear!