Annealing

Annealing is the process of "softening" metal by the use of heat. Typically this is done with a torch. While heating the metal, colour change is observed; with sterling silver a dull red glow indicates that the metal has reached the correct temperature for Annealing to occur.

In its Annealed state the crystal arrangement of sterling silver contains irregularities called "vacancies" and "dislocations". These enables crystal movement in the metal and so contribute to malleability making the sterling silver bendable.