Silver has always been prized for its dazzling beauty and unique properties. Used for thousands of years, this precious metal continues to fascinate and inspire jewelry designers. At Lady Taty, all our jewelry is made from 925 silver. Our silver-colored jewelry has all been rhodium-plated to obtain a shiny metal that guarantees both elegance and longevity. But what does rhodium-plated silver really mean, and why 925? Let's delve into the fascinating world of this precious metal.

 

Origin and history

The word "silver" comes from the Latin argentum, meaning metal, currency or wealth. Silver has played a crucial role in human history. The first coins were made of silver, symbolizing wealth and facilitating trade.
Since ancient times, silver has been used in jewelry and goldsmithing, thanks to its brilliant reflections and malleability. The Egyptians, Greeks and Romans used silver to create exquisite jewelry, objects of worship and as currency.

 

The composition

Pure silver is too soft to be used on its own for jewelry. To improve its durability, it is alloyed with other metals. 925 silver, or sterling silver, is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination offers a perfect balance of beauty and strength.

 

The benefits

• Durability: the copper alloy gives 925 silver extra strength, making it ideal for everyday jewelry.
• Luster: 925 silver retains the natural luster of silver, offering an attractive shine.
• Hypoallergenic: silver is naturally non-allergenic, making it a safe choice for people with sensitive skin.

 

Rhodium plating for extra protection

To further enhance the durability and shiny appearance of silver, a technique called rhodium plating is used. Rhodium plating involves applying a thin layer of rhodium, a metal in the platinum family, to the surface of the jewel. This process offers several advantages:

• Prevention of oxidation: silver tends to oxidize and tarnish when exposed to air and skin. Rhodium protects silver from this process, maintaining its shine for longer.
• Scratch-resistant: rhodium is harder than silver, offering extra protection against scratches and damage.
• Hypoallergenic: like silver, rhodium is non-allergenic, adding an extra layer of safety for sensitive skin.

 

The hallmark: a guarantee of quality

The quality of the silver is attested by the hallmark, an official marking indicating the quantity of pure metal present in the alloy of your jewelry. A hallmark of 925 thousandths means that the jewel contains 92.5% pure silver. Here's an overview of the different hallmarks available:

• 800: Contains 80% pure silver.
• 830: Contains 83% pure silver.
• 900: Contains 90% pure silver.

At Lady Taty, we guarantee the highest quality silver, with jewelry marked 925, ensuring a high pure silver content.

 

Applications for 925 rhodium-plated silver

925 rhodium-plated silver jewelry is appreciated for its beauty and durability. Here are just a few examples of their applications in modern jewelry at Lady Taty :

• Bracelets: chain bracelets or link bracelets, rhodium-plated silver adds a touch of elegance to any wrist.

• Necklaces: 925 rhodium-plated silver necklaces, whether minimalist or more technical, are the centerpiece of any jewelry collection.

• Earrings: 925 rhodium-plated silver earrings, available in a variety of styles, are the perfect complement to any look.

• Rings: we don't yet have any rings in this precious metal, but we'll get around to it...

 

Care and durability of 925 rhodium-plated silver

To preserve the beauty of your jewelry, it's essential to look after it properly. Here are a few practical tips:   

• Avoid chemicals: perfumes, hairsprays and other chemicals can damage rhodium. We recommend putting on your jewelry after applying these products.
• Cleaning: use a soft cloth to clean your jewelry. Avoid abrasive cleaners that could damage the rhodium coating.
• Storage: store your jewelry in a dry place, preferably in a fabric-lined pouch, to avoid scratches and oxidation.

 

Environmental and ethical impact

The extraction and processing of silver can have environmental impacts. At Lady Taty, we are committed to using responsible and sustainable practices in the production of our jewelry. These include:

• Responsible sources: we source our silver from suppliers who respect environmental and ethical standards.
• Recycling: we encourage the recycling of precious metal, thus reducing the impact of mining.
• Ethical working conditions: we ensure that all workers involved in the production of our jewelry are treated fairly and work in safe conditions.

 

925 Silver in contemporary fashion

Rhodium-plated silver is a popular choice in contemporary fashion. Its hypoallergenic properties and long-lasting lustre make it an ideal material for modern jewelry designers. Here's how silver is influencing current trends: 

• Minimalism: Minimalist jewelry in 925 rhodium-plated silver is all the rage, offering understated elegance for any occasion.
• Mix and match: 925 rhodium-plated silver blends well with other metals and materials, enabling creative, personalized combinations. Bicolor" jewelry is silver combined with yellow or rose gold plating.

 

Conclusion

925 silver is much more than just a precious metal. It's a symbol of beauty, durability and quality. At Lady Taty, we are proud to offer rhodium-plated silver jewelry that combines tradition and modernity. Each piece is carefully crafted to guarantee timeless aesthetics and exceptional durability.
When you choose 925 rhodium-plated silver jewelry, you're investing in pieces that will stand the test of time, while adding a touch of elegance to your style. Explore our collection and discover the magic of silver at Lady Taty.