Historical Background

• Like many new inventions, alpaca originated in China as an inexpensive substitute for sterling silver. Once alpaca arrived in European markets, it was used for plating European currencies. This is no longer the case however, since the establishment of the Euro. The transition from coins to jewelry was a natural one. Producers and consumers alike found many benefits of jewelry made from alpaca, including lower costs and easier care and maintenance.
  
  

Alpaca Silver

• Alpaca silver is the described alpaca blend that is then coated with a sterling silver plate. This combination actually makes alpaca silver stronger than pure sterling silver while maintaining the shine and luster of sterling silver. The cost of alpaca silver is less than pure sterling silver but slightly more than the alpaca alloy.
  
  

Alpaca Fibers

• Alpaca is also the term that refers to animals similar to llamas but smaller in size. The hair from their coats is formed into fibers to make wool fabric and felt. These animals and their wool have become popular in recent decades. Many arts and crafts that incorporate alpaca fibers can easily be found on the market including alpaca jewelry--jewelry made from these fibers.
  
  

Alpaca Jewelry

• Because the alpaca alloy resembles silver in looks but is less expensive, alpaca silver is a popular material used in jewelry production. Alpaca jewelry is easy to care for as it does not tarnish as easily or as deeply as sterling silver and is easier to clean. Plated with sterling silver, alpaca jewelry is both durable and beautiful, making it a high quality product. South American jewelry companies are the leaders in alpaca jewelry production. Alpaca fibers are used to make chains and cords to display pendants or are woven into necklaces or bracelets. Some alpaca jewelry incorporates both alpaca silver and alpaca fibers to wrap and string beads and stones.
  
  

South American Alpaca Jewelry

• South American alpaca jewelry is rich with religious images both Christian and indigenous to the South American beliefs. In recent years, modern secular designs have also become popular. The designs of the alpaca silver are adorned with semi-precious stones, turquoise and abalone giving South American alpaca jewelry its signature look. Although most vintage pieces are handmade, newer alpaca jewelry is mass produced in factories. A standard technique used in South American alpaca jewelry is to wrap alpaca wiring around stones to mount them into the jewelry pieces.