The Best Silver Necklace

Buying Guide

Silver is a popular material for necklaces. The shiny, neutral color will match a wide variety of clothing styles and colors. But if you want a piece of jewelry that will last, it’s important to look for the right kind of silver necklace.

The best thing about silver jewelry is that it’s more affordable than gold and platinum. In 2019, approximately 980 tons of silver were produced in U.S. mines, to a total estimated value of $510 million. Jewelry manufacturers combine this silver with small amounts of other metals, known as alloys, to create the jewelry you see in stores.

All silver is marked, although the markings are usually so small, you’ll need a microscope to identify them. Silver jewelry is often marked .925, which means it’s 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent of other metals. In some cases, you’ll find .999 silver, which indicates a silver necklace that is 99.9 percent silver. Although .999 silver might sound better, the truth is that silver needs those other metals to strengthen it and give it more durability, which is why .925 silver has become the standard.

Durability is an ongoing problem with silver jewelry. Although silver itself is durable, the alloys mixed with it can tend to change color over time. As those metals are exposed to moisture and pollutants in the air, they can start to tarnish, turning that once beautiful necklace into something else entirely.

Storing your silver jewelry in airtight bags can help prevent the damage air can cause. Even with all the care in the world, though, silver may eventually tarnish. When that happens, you can use a silver polish to get it back in shape. You can also take your silver to a jeweler to have it professionally cleaned.

• Some silver is plated in white or yellow gold to give you the look of gold with the durability and affordability of silver. It’s worth comparing white gold to silver to see which look you like better.
• Layered necklaces have become especially popular in recent years. Often you can buy layered necklaces sold together that can be worn separately. This will give you more than one look.
• If you’re buying a silver necklace with a pendant, check the material of that pendant. You’ll want to make sure it has the same quality as the chain.
• For a necklace you’ll be wearing in the shower or swimming, check to make sure the necklace is designed for it. The alloys that were mixed with the silver can influence whether the color turns when exposed to water.
• Look closely at the length of the chain. Some have an extender that will give you a couple of extra inches.
• A silver necklace can make a great gift. Check the packaging the silver necklace arrives in, since not all are sold in boxes. You can easily find a gift box geared toward necklaces that will provide the presentation you need.
• Some people have found they react to certain types of jewelry. With a silver allergy, you’ll experience symptoms like a rash, itchiness, swelling or dry patches. But your allergic reaction might be related to one of the alloys in the jewelry. Nickel allergies are fairly common, and as a result, you’ll often see silver jewelry labeled as nickel-free.
• Pay attention to the clasp of any necklace you choose. You can easily find your necklace comes unfastened when you aren’t looking, leading you to lose the necklace while you’re out and about. Many come with spring clasps that provide a sturdy seal once closed to ensure your necklace won’t slip off.