Posts Tagged ‘stainless steel’

Sometimes, it can be difficult to make a decision, especially when you are making a decision between two great choices. When selecting a pendant or other jewellery item to personalise with photo engraving, etching or embossing, one of the first decisions that will need to be made is to choose the type of metal that will be used. Two popular metals that are used in jewellery are sterling silver and stainless steel, but which metal is the best? The correct answer depends on the particular tastes and lifestyle of the person who will be wearing the item of jewellery.

There are two factors to keep in mind when trying to make a choice between these two types of metal. One major factor to consider is how active or physical is the lifestyle of the person who will be wearing this item of jewellery?

By nature, silver is a very soft metal that is easy to work with. While it is easy to carve intricate designs into silver items, silver is also very prone to bending or showing dings, nicks and scratches when it is worn by those who do physical labour or lead a very active lifestyle. For this reason, individuals who work with their hands or who regularly participate in very physical activities might prefer to choose rings, pendants, bracelets and other items of jewellery that are made from a metal other than sterling silver so  that is more resistant to wear and tear.

Stainless steel can be a great choice for people who have an active lifestyle or occupation, as the surface can be treated to resemble pewter or chrome, but it is naturally resistant to dings, nicks, scratches and warping.

The second factor to think about when you are considering stainless steel is that its price can be a selling point to some and a potential drawback to others. Stainless steel is generally an inexpensive metal, particularly in comparison to sterling silver. Some might not view a jewellery item made from stainless steel as special because of the low cost, and others simply prefer the particular lustre and patina that sterling silver acquires as it ages.

Choosing the type of metal to use is only the beginning of the process to selecting the perfect piece of jewellery to personalise. To learn more about photo engraving and other ways to select and personalise the perfect piece of jewellery, please visit Etched in Memories.

What looks like silver but is even stronger, harder to scratch and doesn’t tarnish?

Stainless steel of course! It’s not just for body piercing and dog tags. It is a versatile and durable metal that is the next generation in stylish jewellery pieces.

Even better, as it doesn’t contain nickel, it is nonallergenic, will not colour your skin and can be worn by just about anyone.

Stainless steel is becoming more popular as a metal for funky as well as elegant jewellery pieces that will last a lifetime of normal wear. No need to save it for a special occasion as this almost indestructible metal can be worn every day and requires minimal cleaning and maintenance, unlike other materials that are coated and require regular polishing.

Due to its durability and strength, it is perfect for designs and finishes you wouldn’t consider on other metals that are just not strong enough, like engraving for example. And as pieces are usually carved from a larger piece into the desired design, you are limited only by your imagination and the creativity of the craftsman.

Last but not least, stainless steel is a less expensive option than gold or other more traditional metals used for jewellery. You can afford to have multiple pieces and experiment with different styles with less pressure on your bank balance.

Who would have thought a material traditionally used for kitchen sinks and surgical instruments could look so good?