What is the difference between Sterling silver and 925 silver?

SILVER: WHEN IS SILVER 'REAL' AND WHAT IS THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN STERLING SILVER AND 925 SILVER?

Sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% silver by weight and 7.5% other metals by weight, usually copper. The sterling silver standard has a minimum fineness of 925.

Pure silver, by comparison, is 99.9% fine.
Sterling silver is susceptible to tarnishing, and alloys can use elements other than copper to reduce tarnishing, as well as porosity during casting and tarnishing. Such elements include germanium, zinc, platinum, silicon, and boron. Confidential documents from the UK Department for Business Innovation & Skills, released in 2012, revealed that British importers declared £2.1 billion worth of sterling silver jewelry to HM Revenue & Customs in 2011 alone. A 2008 Italian study concluded that approximately 50% of all sterling silver cutlery produced worldwide is made in Italy.


What is sterling silver ?
Sterling silver is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The word "sterling" comes from the Old English word meaning "Easterners" or "Britons," as the British pound was originally worth one troy pound (~373 grams) of sterling silver. Today, sterling silver is used for a wide variety of purposes, including jewelry , utensils, coins, scientific instruments, and more! Because it's so versatile, it's important to know a little more about this precious metal alloy.

The Difference Between .925 Sterling Silver and Regular Silver Most people don't realize that there are different grades of sterling silver! The three grades are: solid sterling silver ( .925 ), coin sterling silver (.900), and commercial sterling silver (.830). Solid sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver while the rest is made up of harder metals like copper, making it strong and durable - this is why most people choose solid sterling silver over regular silver! Coin and commercial sterling silver are lower grades because they contain a smaller amount of pure silver (90% and 83% respectively). This means they are not as strong or durable as solid sterling silver and can scratch/destroy more easily over time if not cared for properly.

If you're looking for good quality solid silver jewelry, make sure it says "925" somewhere so you know it's real!

When shopping for genuine sterling silver jewelry, it's important to look for the hallmark that indicates it's 92.5% pure silver. Be careful when shopping online, as many imitations are sold as genuine sterling silver , while in reality, they're simply plated with a very thin layer of silver over a cheaper metal base. Do your research on a seller before making any purchases!

Where can you find the hallmark for silver?

• For silver earrings, the hallmark is on the stick and on the silver ear studs.
• In the case of silver rings, the hallmark is in the ring.
• For silver necklaces in the clasp or in the picture next to the clasp.
• For bracelets, this is often found on the clasp or on the inside of the bracelet.
• Toe ring - here too you will find the brand mark on the inside of your jewelry.

Finally, have fun shopping for beautiful sterling silver jewelry —they make great gifts for friends and loved ones, or treats for yourself! :)