Tribal Silver – What You Need to Know
Is it Real Silver?
Tribal silver, (like the similarly misleading named Tibetan silver) is a descriptive term widely used in jewellery, particularly in bohemian, tribal, and spiritual designs. These metals are often seen in handcrafted pieces inspired by African, Native American, and Eastern motifs, giving them a rustic and exotic appeal.
However, despite this intriguing name, the metals rarely contain real silver. Many people assume that because the word “silver” is in the name, they are purchasing a precious metal, but most tribal silver jewellery is made from mixed base metals rather than fine or sterling silver. Some pieces may contain toxic metals like lead, arsenic, or cadmium, making it crucial for buyers to understand exactly what they’re purchasing.
If you love the look of tribal or Tibetan silver, it’s important to learn what these metals really are, how to identify genuine silver, and how to avoid potential health risks.
What Is Tribal Silver?
Tribal silver is a broad, often deceptive, term used to describe silver-coloured metal alloys used in jewellery that draws inspiration from various tribal cultures. This jewellery often features bold, intricate handcrafted designs. While the name suggests that it contains silver, this is often not the case.
Key Features of Tribal Silver
Common in costume jewellery – Features beautiful, intricate designs inspired by global traditions. Jewellery labelled “tribal silver” often features cultural motifs of African & Native American origins, while items labelled “Tibetan silver’ feature more Eastern & Buddhist designs.
- May not contain real silver – Most pieces are made from copper, tin, nickel, or zinc, with no actual silver content.
- Durable, cheap and easy to shape for detailed metalwork
- May contain harmful metals – Some unregulated tribal silver jewellery may contain lead, arsenic, or cadmium, which can be harmful to wear.
- Not hypoallergenic – Since it contains mixed metals, it can cause skin irritation or allergic reactions, particularly for those sensitive to nickel.
How to Identify Tribal Silver
Because these metals do not have official hallmarks, identifying them can be tricky. To ensure you are purchasing genuine silver jewellery, look for authentic silver hallmarks, such as:
- .999 (Fine Silver) or 99.9% silver) and sometimes marked as .999FS
- .958 (Britannia Silver) 95.8% purity
- .925 (Sterling Silver) – Contains 92.5% pure silver
- .900 or .800 – Lower-grade silver alloys including some European or Cosmopolitan Silvers
- Verified Silver items should have a clear stamp indicating their silver content
If a piece is simply described as “silver” without any hallmark or purity stamp, it is likely just a silver-coloured metal rather than real silver.
Is it Safe Wear Tribal Silver?
Tribal silver jewellery can be an affordable and stylish option for those who love unique, handcrafted designs. However, it’s important to be aware of their metal composition and potential health risks.
Tribal silver is often produced in countries with different metal regulations, meaning the exact composition of the metal can be uncertain. This makes it essential for buyers to ask about the metal content before making a purchase.
Avoid wearing unverified metals long-term – Especially if you have metal allergies, sensitive skin or are pregnant.
While tribal silver can look stunning, always be cautious about what you’re wearing!
