Sterling Silver Charms

When you are in the market for sterling silver charms, be sure that you check the silver mark. Anything under .925 (92.5% pure silver) is not strong enough for normal wear and tear and is not considered sterling.

Buyer Beware

• Sometimes, base metal is used and covered with a thin layer of sterling silver. This is called coating or layering. Although this can be more affordable, it splits very easily and requires adding more and more layers of silver. The unique style of Italian charms lends itself to durability, however, it is best to start with a more quality material.


• German or nickel silver has a silvery white look to it. This metal type is discouraged because the nickel can irritate sensitive skin types.

Kinds of Sterling Silver charms:

- Enameled: These are symbols such as Chinese characters, pictures of animals, or words that are crafted in enamel on a sterling silver plate, which has a larger base of stainless steel.

- CZ charms: CZ is the abbreviation for cubic zirconium, and is used to describe the charms that contain these stones, whether vibrantly colored or sparkling clear.

- Custom made charms: Handcrafted and unique, these are all the rage because you can combine personal themes such as a favorite sport with your birthstone, or favorite animal with your favorite colored CZ stone.