I had never heard of liquid silver until 2002 when a friend of mine mentioned that she had always wanted a liquid silver necklace.

Since Christmas was coming up, I thought I'd search for a nice liquid silver necklace for her online. I found some really beautiful necklaces and actually did end up buying her one.

If you're not familiar with liquid silver, "liquid silver" is a term used to describe jewelry that is made with multiple strands of small .925 sterling silver tubular beads. The beads are made by drawing small ribbons of silver through a drawplate that forms a thin, silver tube that is then cut into beads. The holes are large in relation to the diameter of the tube which makes easy to string. By having multiple strands of tiny shimmering beads, it creates a very fluid look. The multiple strands when worn resemble cascading water.

The liquid silver jewelry that I have seen is very durable. Most of them seem to be made on what is referred to as a mini cable that is actually a seven-strand nylon coated stainless steel stringing wire made for beadwork.

It is recommended that when you're not wearing your liquid silver jewelry, that you store it properly in an airtight plastic bag. You should lay long stranded necklaces in a figure 8 to avoid kinking. Store it away from moisture to avoid tarnishing.

Avoid showering, using lotions near the jewelry, or sweating with your jewelry on. You should also store the jewelry periodically.

Because liquid silver is made from real sterling silver, it is prone to tarnishing. You will find that it tarnishes quicker in humid climates in the Southeast United States and slower in the Southwest where it is dry.

When cleaning your jewelry DO NOT use water. It is recommended that you sprinkle dry baking power onto a white cloth. DO NOT use baking soda because it is far too abrasive for the beads, Hold one end of the jewelry with one hand and firmly rub the liquid silver with the cloth spread in the other hand, pulling the strands through the cloth downward. Repeat this process until all tarnish is removed. Once the strands appear clean, shake them gently to remove any excess powder.

You can also use a silver polishing cloth if the item isn't tarnished too badly.