Oxidised Silver
Silver deliberately darkened to bring out detail. In Indian markets the term is also used loosely for base-metal tribal jewellery.
Oxidising is a controlled tarnish. The surface is chemically blackened, then the high points are polished back so the recesses stay dark and the pattern reads.
It suits heavily worked and tribal designs, where the contrast is what makes the detail visible.
Much jewellery sold as oxidised silver in India is actually oxidised base metal, which looks similar and contains no silver.
When you are buying
Ask whether it is 925 or an alloy, and expect the finish to soften at the points that rub. It can be re-oxidised, so treat it as a finish rather than a permanent colour.
925 Sterling Silver
An alloy of 92.5% silver with 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The international standard for silver jewellery.
Tarnish
The dark film that forms on silver as it reacts with sulphur in the air. Surface only, and it polishes off.
Temple Jewellery
South Indian jewellery in a deity and motif vocabulary, originally made to adorn temple idols and now worn by dancers and brides.
Korean Metal
A light, corrosion-resistant alloy widely used for fashion jewellery findings. Holds plating well and does not rust.