A silver wedding ring is a symbol of eternal love and devotion between two people. This cherished jewellery has been worn by couples for many centuries. Initially it was woven from papyrus reeds by Egyptians as early as 4800 years ago, but this custom eventually evolved into the practice of men and women wearing rings to signify their commitment to each other. There are many types of rings that can be bought today, but the most popular choice for both brides and grooms is the traditional gold ring. The price of this precious metal makes it unaffordable for many couples, which has lead to an increase in the popularity of alternative wedding ring materials.
One of the most common alternatives to gold is silver. This is mainly due to the fact that silver is much more affordable and it also has a very beautiful appearance. While silver does have some drawbacks to its use, it is still a very good option for both men and women who wish to wear a wedding ring.
Most people who choose to buy a silver wedding ring will do so from a well-known jeweller. However, more and more people are choosing to purchase their wedding ring online. This allows them to shop at their own leisure, without the pressure of a salesperson talking them into something they may not have wanted. It is also possible to compare prices and styles at several different outlets before making a final decision.
A key issue for anyone thinking of purchasing a silver wedding band is how durable it will be. The strength of a silver ring depends on its alloy. Sterling silver is required to contain at least 92.5% pure silver, the remaining percentage being a hardening metal such as copper. The addition of this metal alloy helps to prevent the ring from becoming too soft, which could make it bend out of shape.
This is an important factor because wedding and engagement rings are usually worn all the time. A softer metal like silver would quickly become damaged and bend out of shape with regular use. This is why many silver rings end up back in the jewellery box after being worn only occasionally.
Stainless steel rings are more durable than silver and have the advantage of being hypoallergenic. They can also be worn with a range of different stones and colours, so it is possible to find a style that will suit the bride or groom.
In order to ensure that the ring is kept in top condition it is best to keep it away from anything that could damage it. This includes taking it off prior to swimming or showering. This is because the metal reacts with water and can oxidize, which will cause it to darken. It is also advisable to take it off before any work that requires manual labour as the metal could be easily scratched.
Those who decide to purchase a silver wedding ring should look for a piece that is hallmarked as 925. This means that it is at least 95% silver and has been forged or cast with the addition of other metals. This is to help protect the buyer from any cheap imitations that are often sold in the same marketplace as genuine silver.