Alabaster Omega Chain: What Is It & How to Care For It?

Question
I was at the flea market this weekend, and picked up a Omega Chain that I thought was silver. When I got home I noticed it was stamped Alabaster on the clasp. I took it to a local pawn shop, and he was happy to tell me it wasn't silver or gold.  So what exactly is Alabaster?  I googled it, and keep coming up with stone items made from Alabaster.  It is a metal necklace.  Is it worth anything, is it costume, and if it is worth anything how do you clean and care for it?  I only paid 2.00 for the necklace.  It is an 18 inch, choker type omega chain.  It is pretty though.  
Thanks....

Answer
Dear Angela,

Alabaster is a rock, similar too but softer than marble.  This is obviously not what your omega necklace is made of.  Since it is not silver or gold and not marked with a precious metal stamp,
the reasonable conclusion is that Alabaster is a brand name of costume jewelry.

Clean it gently and avoid any abrasive jewelry cleaners.  The surface plate is what the necklace has going for it, making a nice and attractive omega chain. When that surface is worn through, the necklace is then beyond repair and will have served its purpose of "looking good" for as long as it could.  I would not use any cleaner other than mild dish detergent ans water. To avoid any possible chemical discolorations, do not use any cleaners containing ammonia and definitely none with bleach or "bleach substitute".

Angela, now enjoy your $2.00 omega as long as you can.  

God Bless and Peace.   Thomas.