Stainless Steel Jewelry Buying Guide | Zales
Facts About Stainless Steel
What is Stainless Steel?
Stainless steel is an alternative metal that has grown popular in contemporary jewelry design, from necklaces and bracelets to stainless steel wedding bands. Stainless steel jewelry holds up to wear and tear, and its durability has made it a popular choice for men’s jewelry and watches.
Stainless Steel vs. Sterling Silver
Stainless steel and sterling silver are both popular metal alloys with a similar, gray-cast luster. Sterling silver is 92.5% silver, giving it more inherent value. However, stainless steel is a harder metal that is very resistant to scratches and damage
Another plus for stainless steel jewelry is the fact it does not easily corrode or tarnish, while sterling silver will tarnish and require maintenance. Keep in mind what you want out of your jewelry. Ask yourself questions like are you more interested in value or how your jewelry wears over time.
Stainless Steel History
Stainless steel is a product of industrial ingenuity, specifically crafted to be durable and retain its shine. It was invented in 1912 by English metallurgist Harry Brearley by combining chrome and steel. Stainless steel’s corrosion resistance is a big reason why it’s everywhere in your kitchen — it can stand up to the natural acids, no polishing needed.
Stainless Steel Characteristics
Alternative metals are defined by their modern sensibility and industrial style. What should you keep in mind when wearing stainless steel jewelry? Review stainless steel jewelry’s key characteristics and see if this metal is right for you.
Durability
Stainless steel is known for its strength and scratch resistance. It is a hardy metal that does not tarnish or corrode over time.
Color
Stainless steel naturally has a gray luster, and can be plated with rose gold, yellow gold, and black metals.
Weight
Stainless steel jewelry has a moderate weight similar to popular precious metals.
The Facts on Stainless Steel
Looking for unique wedding rings, and want to know the facts about stainless steel? Here’s our summary:
What's to love
• Gray-cast luster, similar appearance to sterling silver
• Budget-friendly and affordable alternative metal
• Durable, scratch, and tarnish resistant
• Gray-cast luster, similar appearance to sterling silver
• Budget-friendly and affordable alternative metal
• Durable, scratch, and tarnish resistant
What to consider
• Not 100% hypoallergenic; contains metals like nickel
• Hardness makes it difficult to shape and resize
• Less intrinsic value compared to precious metals
• Not 100% hypoallergenic; contains metals like nickel
• Hardness makes it difficult to shape and resize
• Less intrinsic value compared to precious metals
Stainless Steel Care
Alternative metals like stainless steel are popular because they are easier to maintain. However, there still are some care basics we recommend following. Store all jewelry separately in a lined box or soft pouch to avoid scratching or being scratched. You can maintain stainless steel’s shine by cleaning it under warm running water with a mild soap.
Shop Stainless Steel Jewelry
Explore jewelry designs featuring the alternative metal, stainless steel. Stainless steel jewelry’s lustrous shine and brilliant color endures in beautiful rings, earrings, necklaces, bracelets, watches, and sets.
