I used to believe these myths myself. I ended up buying two cheap necklaces that faded, left a green mark on my neck, and broke within a month. It was an expensive lesson to learn.
Here’s the honest truth about buying quality jewelry, especially pieces like chains with Hexagonal Column Quartz Pendants. Don’t purchase a 925 sterling silver men’s necklace until you understand these five key points.
One of the biggest misconceptions in jewelry is that sterling silver stays perfectly bright forever. Many people buy silver thinking it requires no upkeep, but that’s simply not the case. 925 sterling silver is made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. The copper is necessary to strengthen the metal for items like chains, but it also reacts with air, moisture, and the chemicals in your sweat.
The result? Tarnish. That’s the dark, dull coating that appears on the metal over time. If you wear your necklace while working out or showering, the tarnishing process will speed up.
To prevent this, many reputable sellers apply a thin layer of rhodium—a metal from the platinum family—over the 925 silver. It’s important to buy from knowledgeable sellers who are upfront about this protective coating.
Truth: Silver needs proper care. It will tarnish if you don’t clean and store it correctly. Sellers like Gianna are incredibly helpful because they educate buyers on how to keep their jewelry looking its best. That kind of guidance is essential.
Here’s what many sellers won’t tell you: numerous cheap pendants and chains are actually made from brass or steel that’s been quickly dipped in a silver-colored coating. This is known as thin plating. It might look impressive in photos, but the finish wears off rapidly.
This is particularly common with mixed pieces, like a Hexagonal Column Quartz Necklace. The pendant might be genuine 925 silver, but the chain could be a cheap alloy steel. Once the plating rubs off, the base metal is exposed, which can irritate your skin or leave a green discoloration.
The highest quality men’s chains are typically crafted from 316L stainless steel with a proper plating, or they are made from solid, thick 925 silver that has been rhodium plated.
Truth: Quality is everything. Look for a seller who is completely transparent about the materials used. Lisa from Shreve & Co., for example, was very helpful and knowledgeable about her products, answering all our questions thoroughly. A trustworthy seller won’t hide what the base metal is.
When you purchase a piece like a Hexagonal Column Quartz Necklace, you’re investing in a natural stone. Quartz isn’t merely colored glass; it’s a genuine crystal that requires mining, cutting, and polishing—all of which add to the cost. Many people don’t understand why these pendants are priced higher than simple metal chains.
A poorly made pendant uses synthetic materials or cheap resin that looks cloudy and artificial. A quality pendant features clear, natural stone, giving the piece an expensive look and a substantial feel.
Truth: You’re paying for the quality of the natural stone. A seller who is truly knowledgeable and helpful will clearly explain the difference between genuine natural stone and a cheap imitation, ensuring you receive a clear, vibrant bullet crystal.
We often see chains online for $10 or $20 labeled as “925 sterling silver men’s necklaces.” This is frequently a major scam. Consider everything that goes into making a piece of jewelry: