Argentium Silver

We are proud to announce that we are a Registered Brand User of Argentium Silver!

But what IS Argentium silver, and how is it different from traditional sterling??

Traditional sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver (this is where the “.925” comes from), with the remaining 7.5% being copper.  If sterling tarnishes, it’s the copper content that causes the oxidation.  The Argentium silver we use, on the other hand, contains 93.5% pure silver, and some of the copper has been replaced by a metal called germanium.

This results in a highly-tarnish-resistant metal that is brighter and whiter than platinum, white gold and traditional sterling, with a longer-lasting shine.  Argentium is hypoallergenic and antibacterial, making it a perfect choice for for people with metal sensitivities.

Argentium was invented by Master Silversmith, Peter Johns, in London UK.  He developed this new alloy while researching how to eliminate firestain in traditional sterling silver.  “Firestain” is caused when oxygen in the air penetrates the outer surface of the metal, oxidizing the copper content of the sterling silver.  It is seen as a dark, purple-grey discoloration, and is very difficult to remove, as it penetrates deep within the metal.  Because the Argentium alloy uses less copper, firestain is less likely to be produced during the forging process of a piece of jewellery.

“…The one property that everybody wants with silver of course is to stop it tarnishing.  And tarnish as you know has been the big problem with sterling silver – people don’t like cleaning their silver.  And, we found that we got tarnish-resistance in the alloy.”

Argentium Silver Facts:

Brighter than platinum, white gold and traditional sterling silver
Longer lasting shine means low maintenance
Environmentally responsible, as it is produced using only recycled silver

For more information, check out the official Argentium Silver website.