Sterling Silver Price Calculator for Engagement Ring
Here’s a comprehensive table summarizing all you need to know about sterling silver prices for engagement rings:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Price Range | £32.99 – £350.00 |
| Average Price | £100 – £200 |
| Popular Styles | Solitaire, Halo, Three-stone, Cluster |
| Common Gemstones | Cubic Zirconia, Created White Sapphire, Diamond |
| Durability | Softer than gold or platinum, prone to scratching and tarnishing |
| Maintenance | Regular cleaning and polishing required |
| Pros | Affordable, hypoallergenic, bright white color |
| Cons | Less durable, may not last a lifetime, can tarnish |
| Alternatives | White gold, platinum, palladium |
| Hardness (Vickers) | 75-125 HV (depending on work hardening) |
| Purity | 92.5% pure silver, 7.5% other metals (usually copper) |
| Tarnish Resistance | Low (unless using Argentium silver) |
| Resizing | Possible, but may weaken the ring |
| Warranty | Often limited or not available |
| Lifespan | 5-10 years with proper care (vs. lifetime for gold/platinum) |
Additional Considerations
Durability Concerns: Sterling silver is softer than traditional engagement ring metals, making it less suitable for daily wear over many years134.
Tarnishing: Silver tarnishes over time, requiring more frequent cleaning and maintenance than gold or platinum rings46.
Stone Security: The softness of silver may compromise the security of gemstone settings, especially for daily wear items like engagement rings46.
Alternative Options: For those who prefer the look of silver but want more durability, consider white gold or platinum. Palladium is another white metal option that’s more durable than silver and less expensive than platinum35.
Argentium Silver: This modern silver alloy offers improved tarnish resistance and can be hardened to 100-120 HV, making it a better option than traditional sterling silver for engagement rings6.
Cost-Effective Designs: If choosing silver, opt for simpler, sturdier designs that are less likely to bend or lose stones. Avoid intricate or delicate settings46.
While sterling silver engagement rings can be beautiful and budget-friendly, it’s important to weigh the long-term considerations against the initial cost savings. Many jewelers recommend more durable metals for engagement rings meant to last a lifetime.