Every ZORYS piece is made from 316L stainless steel, not sterling silver. Both have a silver colour, but they behave very differently once you start wearing them every day. Here's what actually separates them.
What is sterling silver?
Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver mixed with other metals, usually copper, to make it strong enough for jewelry. It's a precious metal, which is why it costs more. Its weak points for daily wear: it tarnishes (darkens) when it reacts with sulfur in the air, sweat and some cosmetics, and it's relatively soft, so it scratches and can bend. Keeping it bright means regular polishing.
What is 316L stainless steel?
316L is a grade of stainless steel widely used where corrosion resistance matters, including in medical and marine settings. The "L" stands for low carbon. It contains chromium, which forms an invisible protective layer on the surface, plus molybdenum, which improves resistance to salt and sweat.
For jewelry that means:
- No tarnishing or rust in normal wear.
- Harder than silver, so it holds its shape and resists everyday scratches better.
- Colour that stays without polishing.
- A lower price, because you're paying for design and craft, not precious-metal weight.
Side by side
| 316L stainless steel | Sterling silver | |
|---|---|---|
| Tarnish | Resists tarnish | Tarnishes over time |
| Hardness | Hard, holds shape | Softer, scratches and bends more easily |
| Upkeep | Rinse and dry | Regular polishing |
| Price | Accessible | Higher (precious metal) |
Can you wear 316L steel in water?
316L handles water, sweat and showers well. After the sea or a chlorinated pool, rinse your piece in fresh water and dry it, as long soaks in salt or chlorine are hard on any metal.
What about sensitive skin?
316L is one of the most skin-friendly steels and is worn comfortably by most people. It does contain nickel, tightly bound within the alloy. If you have a known severe nickel allergy, check with your doctor before wearing any stainless steel jewelry.
How to care for stainless steel jewelry
- Wash with warm water and a little mild soap, then dry with a soft cloth.
- Avoid harsh chemicals and abrasive cleaners.
- Store pieces separately so they don't scratch each other.
Why ZORYS uses 316L
We design bold pieces that are meant to be worn every day, not saved for special occasions. 316L lets us do that at a fair price, without the upkeep of silver. Explore our men's rings, bracelets and necklaces.