Have you ever walked past a jewellery shop and wondered: Can diamonds really be set in sterling silver, or is that just a marketing trick? It’s a fair question. After all, we’re used to seeing diamonds associated with gold or platinum, while silver tends to be linked with more affordable gemstones. As a jewellery enthusiast who once bought my first diamond pendant set in silver (much to the surprise of the salesperson), I can assure you: yes, diamonds can indeed be mounted in sterling silver—but the story doesn’t end there.
This article will take you beyond the basic yes-or-no answer. We’ll explore why jewellers sometimes choose sterling silver for diamonds, the pros and cons of this pairing, what experts say about durability and value, and how to make a smart purchase if you’re considering it.
Understanding Sterling Silver in Fine Jewellery
Sterling silver is an alloy, typically made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper or other metals. This blend strengthens silver, which on its own is too soft to withstand daily wear.
- Advantages of sterling silver: affordability, malleability (ideal for intricate designs), and a bright white shine that complements gemstones.
- Drawbacks: prone to tarnishing and scratching compared to gold and platinum.
Dr. Louise Carter, a gemmologist at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), notes:
“Silver has a long history in jewellery-making, but when paired with diamonds, jewellers must carefully weigh up durability against cost-effectiveness.”
Why Diamonds Are Rarely Seen in Silver
While it is possible to mount diamonds in silver, it’s not the industry standard. Here’s why:
- Value mismatch: Diamonds, especially high-quality stones, are precious and costly. Mounting them in silver (a relatively inexpensive metal) may seem unbalanced to buyers.
- Durability concerns: Silver is softer and more prone to wear, which can compromise the security of a diamond setting.
- Perception of luxury: Most buyers expect diamonds to be paired with gold or platinum, metals that carry a higher prestige.
In fact, according to a Statista 2023 report on the global jewellery market, 79% of diamond jewellery sold was mounted in gold, 15% in platinum, and only a fraction used silver or other metals.
When Diamonds Are Set in Silver
Despite the rarity, there are contexts where diamonds meet sterling silver:
1. Fashion Jewellery
Some designers create sterling silver pieces with small, low-carat diamonds or diamond chips. These pieces are usually marketed as affordable luxury.
Example: A popular UK brand sells sterling silver lockets with tiny diamonds inset as “a touch of sparkle,” retailing for under £150.
2. Starter Jewellery
For those buying their first diamond—like students or young professionals—sterling silver provides an affordable entry point.
Personal note: My first diamond pendant, set in silver, cost me under £100. It wasn’t large or flawless, but it gave me the joy of owning something genuine without overspending.
3. Vintage and Antique Designs
In the Victorian and Edwardian eras, silver was commonly used as the top metal for diamond jewellery, often backed with gold for stability. Many antique diamond brooches and tiaras still show silver settings today.
4. Experimentation in Design
Contemporary jewellers sometimes deliberately set diamonds in silver to create a contrast—pairing luxury with accessibility, tradition with modernity.
Expert Take: Is It Worth It?
Jewellery appraiser Jonathan Marks, with over 20 years of experience in the UK market, advises:
“If you’re buying diamond jewellery as an investment, sterling silver isn’t the best option. But if you’re purchasing for personal wear, particularly small stones or accent diamonds, silver can be perfectly fine—just take care with maintenance.”
Maintenance is the key word here. Silver requires regular polishing and careful storage to prevent tarnishing. Diamond settings in silver also need to be checked more often to ensure the prongs remain secure.
How to Care for Diamond Jewellery in Sterling Silver
If you decide to purchase or already own diamonds mounted in silver, here are some practical steps to keep them in excellent condition:
- Regular cleaning: Use a soft cloth and mild soap solution to clean. Avoid harsh chemicals that may damage both the silver and the diamond’s brilliance.
- Storage: Keep silver in anti-tarnish pouches or lined boxes to reduce exposure to air and moisture.
- Professional checks: Visit a jeweller once a year to ensure the diamond is secure in its setting.
- Limit exposure: Avoid wearing silver jewellery in swimming pools, hot tubs, or during heavy physical activities.
Comparing Metals for Diamond Settings
| Metal | Durability | Cost | Prestige | Maintenance |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sterling Silver | Fair (soft, tarnishes) | Low | Moderate | High (requires upkeep) |
| Gold (14K/18K) | Good | Medium-High | High | Moderate |
| Platinum | Excellent | High | Very High | Low |
This table highlights why silver is less common for diamonds. However, it also shows that silver isn’t “wrong”—it simply serves a different audience.
FAQs
Do real diamonds ever come in silver settings?
Yes, though it’s rare. They are usually small stones or decorative accents rather than large, investment-grade diamonds.
Will diamonds fall out more easily from silver?
Silver is softer than gold or platinum, which means settings may loosen over time. Regular checks are essential.
Is diamond-in-silver jewellery worth buying?
For sentimental or fashion purposes—absolutely. For investment or resale value, gold or platinum is a safer choice.
How can I tell if a diamond in silver is real?
Always request certification (e.g., GIA or IGI) and buy from a reputable jeweller. You can also get the stone independently appraised.
Why did antique jewellers use silver with diamonds?
Before modern white gold and platinum became widespread, silver was the go-to metal for showcasing diamonds’ sparkle.
Final Thoughts
So, are diamonds ever mounted in sterling silver? Yes—and they always have been. From Victorian tiaras to modern starter jewellery, this combination may not dominate the market, but it certainly has its place.
If you’re considering buying such a piece, focus on personal value over resale value. Think of it as wearing a slice of history or an affordable sparkle that still carries the magic of a diamond.
Have you ever bought or considered buying diamond jewellery set in silver? I’d love to hear your experience—share your story in the comments below!
