925 Sterling silver alloy
For jewelry, the most common alloy is 925, containing 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper. This combination provides an optimal balance between the ductility required for processing and the hardness that allows the product to maintain its shape and elasticity. It is this alloy that has become the world standard of quality: elegant rings, earrings, chains and body icons are created from it, which delight their owners for many years.
Silver care features
One of the characteristic features of silverware is the ability to darken over time. This is due to the reaction of the metal with sulfur compounds found in the air and in human skin fat. A dark coating forms on the surface – silver sulfide. This is a natural process that is not a defect. You can restore the original shine to the jewelry using a soft cloth or special silver cleaning products.
Decorative coatings
To add additional beauty and protection to the products, craftsmen use various coatings. In Vladimir Mikhailov's collection, silver jewelry is often coated with high—grade 999.9 gold with a thickness of 5 microns, which is higher than the generally accepted standard, which ensures durability and noble radiance. Blackening is also used, which emphasizes the relief and depth of the engraving, creating an exquisite contrast. Rhodium plating is the application of the thinnest layer of rhodium (2-3 microns), which gives the product a mirror shine and protects against corrosion.
Beauty for many years to come
All these coatings require careful treatment: over time, they can wear off upon contact with abrasives, cosmetics, or as a result of mechanical action. However, with careful wearing and regular care, jewelry retains its beauty for decades, becoming family heirlooms.