Three Questions You Should Know Before Buying a Sterling Silver Picture Frame

Before buying a sterling silver picture frame there are three questions you need to ask yourself. Answering these three simple questions will help you be able to choose the sterling silver frame that's right for you.

Question #1: Is this Silver Picture Frame Really Silver? Surprisingly enough, many people see an expensive shiny looking silver frame and automatically assume it is made of silver. That's because most people don't know the difference between sterling silver, silver plate and silver colored metals.

Very few silver items are made of 99.9% pure silver because the metal is too soft to make functional objects. Any valuable silver item is made of sterling silver. Do you know the difference between these three metals?

* Sterling silver is 92.5% silver by weight and 7.5% from other types of metal like copper for strength. * Silver plated frames are made of a thin layer of silver electroplated to another metal surface * Silver looking frames are usually made of aluminum or steel

Now that you know the difference between these metals, don't assume a shiny item is made of sterling silver. Look for a sterling silver stamp to verify it's sterling, but be aware that some sterling frames may have their stamp covered by the frame back and won't be visible. So, if you're not sure always ask a reputable frame retailer to be sure.

Question #2: Is the Sterling Silver Frame Tarnish Resistant? Sterling silver naturally discolors and tarnishes over time. Whenever you shop for sterling silver picture frames, you need to know beforehand if it's going to need polishing. Most new sterling silver picture frames have a tarnish resistant coating to protect them. Unless you like the tedious task of polishing silver, be sure your sterling silver frame is tarnish resistant. You won't be able to tell by looking at it, so if it doesn't say it is tarnish resistant in its description, check with your quality frame retailer for confirmation. It is highly recommended that you only purchase a sterling silver photo frame that has a lacquered finish or tarnish resistant coating.

Question #3: What Frame Size Do You Want? Sterling silver frames are available in various sizes. The reason that the size is so important is because there is a big price difference between a 4x6 and 8x10 sterling silver picture frame. The price difference can amount to hundreds of dollars.

If you are buying sterling silver frames online or through international sources, be sure that your frame comes in standard frame sizes that are measured in inches. Most other countries measure in centimeters instead of inches and have different picture size formats. Be sure you know the picture frame size you want and you will be able to select a sterling silver picture frame that fits your picture, your style and your budget.

Keeping these three questions in mind when you select a sterling silver frame will help you select a frame that you'll treasure for years and be able to pass on to future generations.

About The Author Autumn Lockwood loves photography and is a writer for Your Picture Frames. Your Picture Frames offers a large selection of quality picture frames. Shop online and see our selection of gorgeous sterling silver picture frames and silver picture frames or call 1-800-780-0699.