Material Library
Silver vs Imitation
Imitation jewellery and sterling silver jewellery can look identical on day one. They diverge entirely with time, because one has a precious foundation and the other does not.
- Imitation base
- Brass or mixed alloy
- SELEN base
- BIS hallmarked 925 silver
- Repairable
- Only precious metal is
Day one
Both shine. Both photograph well. This is where most buying decisions are made.
Month six
Imitation pieces begin to show the base metal at edges and contact points. Silver-based pieces may soften in tone but reveal silver, not brass.
Year two
Imitation jewellery is usually discarded. A sterling silver piece can be polished, refinished and worn again — which makes it far less expensive than it first appeared.