How to Spot Stainless Steel Jewelry

Innovations in design and style have made stainless steel the "new silver" for contemporary jewelry design. It is less expensive than sterling silver, white gold or platinum, and it possesses working qualities not found in either titanium or tungsten. Whether polished to a mirror-like brilliance or brushed to a subtle matte finish, it is highly resistant to corrosion, making it a basic for low-maintenance, high-impact fashion jewelry. Low-nickel stainless steel is fast becoming the standard for ear posts and body jewelry.

Instructions
1.Examine the piece in terms of style. Steel beads and elaborate iron wire work jewelry were made in the 19th and early 20th century, but these works are generally coated with black enamel. Stainless steel is a product of the 20 century, and stainless steel jewelry is generally bold and contemporary in design.

2.Look for signs of rust or other corrosion, especially on delicate parts or those stamped from steel sheet. Sterling silver will tarnish upon exposure to air, and regular carbon steel can rust quickly in the presence of moisture and body oils. Stainless steel resists staining and corrosion, as do titanium, tungsten and white gold.

3.ote the weight of the piece and its construction. Titanium, one of the modern metals sometimes mistaken for stainless steel, is noticeably light for its size. Stainless steel can be cut and welded into various shapes to reduce weight or to adjust the size of a ring; neither titanium nor tungsten can be welded once the metal is cast and cut to shape, so adjustments are not possible. Titanium bands will sometimes have other parts, such as a gold gem mounting, riveted in place, however.

4.Check for engraved labeling on inconspicuous areas of the work, such as inside ring or bracelet bands. Stainless steel will generally be labeled as such, and it will generally cost less than a similar item made of other metals.

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