Stainless steel jewelry is rapidly gaining popularity, and for a number of very good reasons too. One important advantage of stainless steel jewery over other types of jewelry is that it is hypoallergenic, in other words it is unlikely to cause any allergic reactions.
Stainless steel itself is an alloy of steel and chromium which is extremely resistant to corrosion. Its anti-corrosive characteristics come from a particularly interesting property caused by the chromium in the stainless steel. The chromium creates what is called a passivation layer of chromium oxide when stainless steel is exposed to oxygen. This passivation layer is so thin that it is invisible, and allows the stainless steel to stay lustrous. The layer protects the stainless steel underneath it as it is impervious to water and air. In addition, if the suface becomes scratched, the layer rapidly recreates itself on the newly exposed surface.
Stainless steel jewelry is extremely durable, moreso than gold or silver for example, and the fine detail that can be created on stainless steel rings and pendants will last without being worn away by the type of daily bumps that may damage such softer metals like gold or silver. In fact, some peopleare calling stainless steel "the new silver", It does indeed have a similar apearance to silver with the added benefit that it is less expensive.
In addition, stainless steel jewelry does not require the amount of care that silver or gold may need. All that is required to keep your ring or pendant clean and in top condition is a quick rinse in warm water with a clean cloth every now and then.
