Chromium-Nickel
Stainless Steel
Bar and Ball Chain
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Stainless Steel Information:
Stainless steel is an Iron (ferrous) alloy with a minimum content of 10% Chromium. Examples of similar materials go back well over a thousand years, but modern efforts to create this material began in earnest around 1900. As the name implies, Stainless Steel usually does not stain, corrode or rust quite as easily as ordinary steel materials.
The resistance to corrosion and staining along with its low maintenance and attractive luster make it an ideal material for a wide range of commercial uses. There are well over 100 grades of Stainless Steel with only a handful the most commonly used. From aircraft, ships and buildings to jewelry, Stainless Steel is a beautiful, versatile material.
The Stainless Steel used to create these beautiful Ball Chain Necklaces contains 18% chromium and 8% nickel and is known as Chromium-Nickel or Type 304. Chromium forms an ultra-thin layer of Chromium Oxide over the surface of the Stainless Steel which is what makes this item so resistant to discoloration, oxidation, rust and staining. Since these Ball Chains are not plated, they will not fade or chip with normal use. Under typical, normal conditions, the Chromium-Oxide layer, if damaged, is usually self-repairing which is known as passivation.
Sources:
Since the Stainless Steel we offer is an alloy of Iron-Chromium-Nickel, there is no single mining source for Stainless Steel. Iron is found worldwide with primary deposits located in Australia, Brazil, Canada, China, India, Iran, Kazakhstan, Mauritania, Mexico, Russia, South Africa, Sweden, Ukraine, United States and Venezuela. Chromium is found throughout the Earth with most Chromium coming from mines in India, Kazakhstan, Russia, South Africa and Turkey. Nickel is found in most meteorites and is often used as a determining factor to authenticate a meteorite. Commercial mining sites for Nickel are found in Australian, Canada, Cuba, and Indonesia.
Note:
Due to current political conditions, all imports (including gemstones) from some countries are not permitted under United States law. In accordance with the law, none of the gemstones offered by CAB-FineJewelry are known to be from these countries. CAB-FineJewelry does not knowingly purchase, trade, sell or giveaway goods from any country embargoed by the United States of America. As individuals we may not agree with some of the laws of our great country. However, rather than breaking the law, we choose to work toward changing these laws in a orderly and legal manner and encourage you to do the same.
Care:
Normal cleaning of Stainless Steel can be usually accomplished by using warm (tepid) water and a soft, lint-free cloth. After a light washing, Stainless Steel should be dried with a dry lint-free cloth which will help prevent water spots that are caused by various mineral deposits from the water. If the piece needs additional cleaning, add a few drops of a mild dish washing liquid detergent to the water and rinse thoroughly. As before, be sure to dry to prevent spotting.
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