Sterling Silver vs. Silver Plating | Balinese Jewellery Guide

When sourcing high-quality artisan jewellery, understanding the foundation of the metal is essential. At our Balinese workshop, we specialise in both traditional 925 Sterling Silver and professional Silver Plating, ensuring our made-to-order pendants meet both your aesthetic and budgetary requirements.

Silver Plating: Affordability Meets Durability

Most contemporary fashion jewellery is silver plated. Unless a piece is explicitly hallmarked, it is generally safe to assume it features a plated finish.

The Process: Silver plating involves depositing a thin layer of pure silver onto a sturdy base metal—typically copper, brass, or nickel.
The Benefit: These pieces offer the brilliant luster of silver at a fraction of the cost. Because the core is a harder base metal, plated pendants are often quite durable.
The Caveat: With heavy use or exposure to water, the silver layer can eventually wear down. For our custom seashell and bone carvings, we offer a high-grade plating service that provides a premium finish while keeping the focus on the intricate hand-carved artistry.

Sterling Silver: The Artisan’s Standard

Sterling Silver is the hallmark of luxury in Balinese smithing. To be classified as Sterling, the alloy must contain a minimum of 92.5% pure silver.

The Hallmark: Authentic pieces are always stamped with a .925 mark.
The Value: Unlike plating, Sterling Silver is an investment. It is a precious metal that can be melted down and recycled, maintaining its intrinsic value over time.
Maintenance: While Sterling Silver naturally reacts with sulfur in the air to create "tarnish," it is easily restored. A quick polish with a specialised silver cloth brings back its original moon-like glow.

Mastering Maintenance & Sourcing

To keep your Balinese pendants—whether plated or solid—looking pristine, we recommend storing them in an airtight zipper bag when not in use. This simple step prevents oxidation and preserves the shine for years.

Expert Insight: Know Your Source As a dedicated Balinese supplier, we prioritise transparency. Be cautious of mass-produced silver marked ".925" from high-volume industrial hubs like China or Mexico, as these are frequently mislabeled. By working directly with Balinese artisans, you ensure that your custom pendants are tested, authentic, and crafted with the integrity our island is famous for.