Sterling silver is 92.5 percent (925 parts) pure silver and 7.5 percent (75 parts) alloy metal. Sterling is the primary material used for silver jewelry, giftware, holloware and flatware. Check marks carefully on silver. If it does not say sterling or bear a hallmark, it is either foreign manufacture or it is probably not sterling. Prices of sterling silver items generally run higher than other types of silver, at least about twice that of silver plate. Since the dawn of civilization, men and women have been captivated by silver's spell and splendor.

Throughout the ages this mystical white metal has been used to mark historical milestones, celebrations, achievements and special occasions. No one knows with certainty when the first silver gift was bestowed. But as early as 3,100 B.C., ambassadors from Crete were already bringing silver vases as gifts for Egyptian rulers. The metal's popularity has even influenced our languages and customs. A silver spoon has symbolized great fortune and privilege since the 17th century when the Spanish writer Cervantes cleverly acknowledged that not everyone was born with one in his mouth. The tradition of the "silver anniversary" dates back to Germany where it was customary to present a silver wreath to a woman after 25 years of marriage.

Sterling silver is a favorite medium for today's most creative and innovative designers due to its affordability and malleability - it can be shaped into almost any form imaginable. A special gift of silver is a touching and lasting expression of affection, friendship, celebration, congratulation or thanks.