A new silver alloy has been developed with increased long-term tarnish resistance comparable to low-karat gold alloys and which requires no additional protective coatings. The paper reports on the alloy development, balancing hardness, manufacturing properties, tarnish resistance as well as metal costs (summarizing the results of an oral Santa Fe Symposium® presentation given in 2015). Results of accelerated lab tarnish tests are presented and compared with extensive real-life, long-term wear tests. Finally, examples of manufacturing trials from cooperating jewelry and watch manufacturers are presented, with a special focus on casting properties of the new silver alloy (silicon- and germanium-free) compared to regular sterling silver and fire scale-resistant alloys. The outcomes are discussed, keeping in mind consumer expectations and market approach.

Author: Dr. Joerg Fischer-Buehner