The Quiet Brilliance Within, Gently Protecting You.
At SMUK, we believe in the quiet power of nature. Just like the carefully selected natural stones we use, silver is a material that carries a subtle energy—resonating gently with both the heart and body.
We choose 925 sterling silver not only for its beauty, but also for its ability to softly amplify and harmonize the energy of natural stones. Our goal is to create jewellery that is more than just adornment—it is a presence that offers calm connection in everyday life.
Silver has long been regarded as a mystical metal associated with the moon, symbolizing intuition, emotion, and protection. Known for its excellent conductivity, it gently enhances and balances energy—making it an ideal complement to meaningful adornments.
Among silver materials, 925 sterling silver is especially valued for being gentle on the skin and hypoallergenic. Compared to surgical stainless steel, it feels less cold and inorganic; compared to brass, it is more resistant to tarnish. Most importantly, it is completely nickel-free, reducing the burden on sensitive skin.
From a spiritual perspective, silver is believed to harmonize rather than disturb one’s energy field, promoting calmness and inner peace.
Surgical stainless steel (316L), on the other hand, is commonly used in cooking utensils such as spatulas or lunch boxes. However, as it contains trace amounts of nickel, it may not be entirely safe for those with sensitive skin.
While brass is cost-effective, it tarnishes easily and may contain nickel, making it a potential cause of allergic reactions. In terms of intrinsic value and resale worth, it does not compare to 925 sterling silver.
When it comes to crafting jewelry—something with enduring meaning and value—925 sterling silver stands out as the most suitable material. Its excellent malleability and symbolic richness are unmatched by other metals.
That is why we at SMUK are committed to harnessing the full potential of 925 sterling silver. We carefully craft each piece with attention to even the unseen details, delivering jewelry that gently complements your everyday life.
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FAQ – About 925 Sterling Silver
Q1. What is 925 sterling silver?
A. 925 sterling silver is an alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver mixed with other metals (mainly copper) to increase its strength. It is considered one of the most ideal materials for jewelry, balancing both beauty and durability.
Q2. Is silver safe for people with metal allergies?
A. In general, 925 sterling silver is often nickel-free and regarded as a hypoallergenic material. It is popular among those with sensitive skin, although individual reactions may vary. If you are concerned, please consult us before purchasing.
Q3. Does 925 sterling silver tarnish?
A. Yes. It can gradually tarnish over time due to exposure to sulfur in the air or skin oils. However, its shine can be easily restored by gently wiping it with a soft cloth. This natural aging process is one of the unique charms of silver, and with proper care, its beauty can be enjoyed for years.
Q4. What’s the difference between 925 silver and surgical stainless steel?
A. Surgical stainless steel is commonly used in kitchen utensils such as spatulas and lunch boxes, and is not suitable as a material for creating items of lasting value.
Moreover, it contains trace amounts of nickel, meaning it cannot be considered completely safe for individuals with sensitive skin.
In contrast, 925 sterling silver is a completely nickel-free material, thoughtfully designed for those with metal allergies. Its warm appearance and high workability, combined with its intrinsic and resale value as a precious metal, make it a distinguished and ideal choice for fine jewelry.
Q5. What’s the difference between 925 silver and brass?
A. Brass is cost-effective but prone to tarnishing and may contain nickel, which can cause allergic reactions. 925 silver is more resistant to tarnish, often nickel-free, and much gentler on the skin—making it more suitable for long-term wear.
Q6. How are silver-plated items different? Are there risks of tarnish or allergies?
A. Some items on the market use silver plating over non-precious metals like brass or surgical stainless steel and are sold as “silver accessories.” While they may look similar, their inner material makes a big difference.
If the base is made of genuine precious metal like sterling silver or gold, surface coatings such as rhodium or platinum serve to enhance durability and shine—this is a common and acceptable finishing method.
However, if the base is not a precious metal, the plating will eventually wear off, exposing the underlying metal. This increases the risk of allergic reactions, especially when nickel-containing materials are used.
Many believe that surgical stainless steel is nickel-free, but in reality, even medical-grade stainless steels like SUS316L contain trace amounts of nickel. For people with sensitive skin, this can still trigger allergic responses, particularly with prolonged wear or exposure to sweat.
Even if the surface looks similar, differences in the core material can significantly impact durability, comfort, and skin safety.
At SMUK, we are committed to using genuine 925 sterling silver both inside and out—so you can wear your jewellery with confidence, for years to come.
Related Links
Want to learn more about materials used in SMUK jewelry? Check out these articles:
- What is Gold Vermeil?
- Does Silver 925 Tarnish? Causes and How to Clean It
- A Guide to Jewelry Materials & Metal Allergies
- Silver 925 vs Surgical Stainless Steel – What's the Difference?
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If you’re interested in SMUK jewelry, feel free to explore our product collections:
