Silver jewelry comes in many different varieties, and it is important to know a little about the silver you are buying. The sterling silver necklaces are made with the highest quality silver available in jewelry. Pure silver is too soft for jewelry production; Sterling silver is 92.5 percent pure silver mixed with a metal alloy. Silver-plated necklaces are also available and have a layer of sterling silver on another metal. The silver-plated necklaces are affordable and still offer the look of sterling silver. The silver-tone necklaces, made of nickel and other metals, have a silver tone but do not contain silver. Different types of silver are suitable for different people, but it is important to know what you are getting when you buy in order to get the best for your money.