Tibetan Silver: Not What is Seems?
What is Tibetan Silver: Is it safe to wear?
Tibetan silver is a widely used term in jewellery, particularly in bohemian, tribal, and spiritual designs. Some Tibetan silver jewellery features oxidised finishes to enhance its antique look, along with detailed engravings of spiritual symbols, Eastern scripts, and mythological animals giving them a rustic and exotic appeal.
Did Tibetan silver ever contain real silver?
Historically, some Tibetan silver was a mix of 30% silver and 70% copper, but this is now extremely rare. Today, most items sold as Tibetan silver is copper-based or plated with silver-coloured metal.
A Silver Coloured Alloy?
Despite its name, “Tibetan silver” is neither silver nor from Tibet. This term is used to describe silver-coloured metal alloys. Today, most Tibetan silver is simply a silver-coloured metal blend that may contain copper, tin, nickel, or zinc. Some pieces even contain toxic metals like lead, arsenic, or cadmium, making it crucial for buyers to understand exactly what they’re purchasing.
However, despite the intriguing name, this metal rarely contains real silver. Many people assume that because the word “silver” is in the name, they are purchasing a precious metal, but in reality, most Tibetan silver jewellery is made from mixed base metals rather than pure or sterling silver.
If you love the look of Tibetan silver, it’s important to learn what these metals really are, how to identify genuine silver, and how to avoid potential health risks.
How to Identify Tibetan Silver
- It looks like antique silver – Many Tibetan silver pieces are designed with an oxidised finish to mimic the aged look of old silver jewellery.
- It often contains no silver – Unless specifically labelled as containing a percentage of silver, most Tibetan silver is just a silver-coloured base metal.
- It may contain harmful metals – Some Tibetan silver pieces have been tested and found to contain high levels of lead, arsenic, or cadmium.
- It is commonly used in spiritual jewellery – Many Tibetan-style jewellery pieces feature Buddhist symbols, mythological creatures, or Eastern scripts.
eBay issued a warning after testing Tibetan silver jewellery and discovering:
- 🚨 Some pieces contained 1.3% arsenic, which is highly toxic.
- 🚨 Others contained 54% lead, which is far beyond safe levels.
Is Tibetan Silver Safe to Wear?
While much Tibetan silver jewellery is harmless, studies have found that certain pieces contain dangerously high levels of toxic metals. For example, eBay issued a warning after testing Tibetan silver jewellery and discovering:
Lead and arsenic are both highly hazardous metals, particularly for pregnant women and children. Lead exposure can cause neurological damage, while arsenic is a known carcinogen. Cadmium, another toxic metal sometimes found in these alloys, is linked to kidney damage and bone disease.
Since Tibetan silver does not have a standardised composition, it’s important to buy from reputable sellers and ask about the metal content before purchasing.
Tibetan Silver – What You Need to Know
Because these metals do not have official hallmarks, identifying them can be tricky. Some sellers may use different names for these alloys, such as:
- Nepalese Silver
- White Metal
- Lead-Free Pewter
- Tribal Silver
To ensure you are purchasing genuine silver jewellery, look for authentic silver hallmarks, such as:
- .925 (Sterling Silver) – Contains 92.5% pure silver
- .900 or .800 – Lower-grade silver alloys
- 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.
Should You Buy Tibetan Silver?
Tibetan 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.
✔ Pros of Tibetan Silver
- Affordable – Cheaper than real sterling silver.
- Stylish & cultural – Feature intricate designs inspired by global traditions.
- Durable – These alloys are often harder and less prone to scratching than pure silver.
X Cons of Tibetan Silver
- Usually contains no real silver – Despite its name, these metals are not precious.
- May contain toxic metals – Some pieces have been found to contain lead, arsenic, or cadmium.
- Not hypoallergenic – Those with metal allergies should be cautious.
If you love silver jewellery, it’s best to stick with Sterling Silver or certified alloys to ensure quality, safety, and value.
Tibetan silver jewellery can be a beautiful and unique addition to your collection, but it’s essential to know what you’re buying. Many of these metals contain no real silver, and some may even pose health risks due to toxic metal content.
Before purchasing, always:
✔ Check for hallmark stamps to confirm silver content.
✔ Ask the seller for details on the metal composition.
✔ Avoid jewellery that is suspiciously cheap or unverified.
Final Thoughts
If you love the aesthetic of Tibetan silver, it’s best to buy from trusted jewellers who can confirm the exact metal composition. For those looking for authentic silver, choosing Sterling Silver (.925) or another verified silver alloy is the safest option.
Have you ever purchased Tibetan silver jewellery? What was your experience? Let me know in the comments!
