Sterling is an alloy (metal blend or mixture) of silver and is most commonly used in jewellery making and silversmithing. Embraced as a standard alloy in England in the 12th century, it became known as Easterling silver after the area of Germany where King Henry the second imported metal refiners from.

Strength and colour are only a few factors in determining an appropriate metal for jewellery.

Find out how jewellery chains are made and how to select a style that suites you.