What is sterling silver? Characteristics and care

A common question when buying silver jewellery is understanding the different terms used to describe it: pure silver, sterling silver, 925 silver, sterling 925 silver… Perhaps the last one is one of the most popular designations, but it can be confusing to differentiate it from other types of silver. This confusion may lead to uncertainty when purchasing silver jewellery. However, it is actually much simpler than it seems, which is why, in this article, we will explain in detail what sterling silver is.  

It is important to note that pure silver (also known as fine silver) exists in nature, but it is not used in jewellery because it is too soft and fragile, making it more susceptible to damage and deformation. This is why silver alloys with other metals have been developed, improving the durability and resistance of jewellery.  

Now that you are aware of this, it will be easier to understand what 925 sterling silver is.

Sterling silver

Sterling silver is also known as 925 silver or sterling 925 silver—hence the confusion surrounding the term, when in fact, they all refer to the same thing!

The origin of the name "sterling silver" dates back to Old English. This proportion of silver was used in England to mint silver coins that featured a star ("ster") on each side, giving rise to the term "sterling silver."

It is common for sterling silver jewellery to have a small engraving with the number 925 to indicate its composition.

Differences Between Sterling Silver 925 and Other Types of Silver

When we talk about silver jewellery, we often associate it with 925 sterling silver, but other terms such as pure silver or silver-plated may also come to mind. However, it’s important to understand that there are significant differences between them.

• Sterling silver, or 925 silver, is the most commonly used in jewellery due to its excellent quality and durability.
• Pure silver, also known as 999 silver, contains 99.9% real silver. Because of this high purity, it is too soft for most jewellery pieces, as it scratches and bends easily.
• Silver-plated jewellery, on the other hand, refers to items made from another base metal, such as copper or brass, that are coated with a very thin layer of silver. This layer wears off quickly over time, meaning the quality and longevity are not comparable to that of sterling silver.

Characteristics of sterling silver

Sterling silver is the most popular silver alloy and has specific characteristics that define it:

• It is composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of another metal (out of 1000 grams, 925g are silver, and 75g are another metal).
• The other metal can be zinc, tin, germanium, or platinum, but the most common is copper.
• Copper has little effect on the colour of the silver.
• This combination with another metal is what makes it more durable and resistant.

Thanks to its strength and beauty, sterling silver is one of the most widely used materials in everyday jewellery such as rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets. Its versatility allows for the creation of both delicate, minimalist designs and more robust pieces adorned with natural gemstones.

Whether you’re looking for a special piece for an important occasion or a timeless jewel to wear regularly, 925 silver is always a safe and stylish choice.

Does sterling silver tarnish?

Another common question regarding sterling silver is whether it oxidises. Silver is a noble metal, meaning that sterling silver does not oxidise, but it can darken. This process, called sulphurisation, occurs when hydrogen sulphide in the air comes into contact with silver jewellery, causing a change in colour.

Sterling silver jewellery that comes into contact with water or certain chemicals may also change in colour. Additionally, factors such as metal alloys, daily wear, and exposure to external elements can affect its shine and tone over time. However, while sterling silver may appear to lose its lustre, this can be easily prevented with proper care and cleaning.

How to care for sterling silver

Although 925 sterling silver jewellery is easy to maintain, several factors can alter its appearance:

• The pH of your skin.
• Sweat.
• Lotions and other cosmetics.
• Cleaning products and soaps.
• Sun exposure.

Each type of sterling silver jewellery requires specific care. For example, rings are more exposed to friction and chemicals, so it’s best to remove them when washing your hands or applying cosmetics. Necklaces and earrings made from 925 silver, on the other hand, retain their shine for longer if stored in individual cases and cleaned regularly with a soft cloth.

Bracelets can maintain their original appearance for years if protected from knocks and kept away from contact with chemicals.

The simplest way to care for sterling silver jewellery is to clean it regularly with warm water and mild soap to remove accumulated dirt. After washing, dry the jewellery with a soft cloth or cotton fabric. Additionally, there are specific sterling silver-cleaning products available in shops.

To avoid the need for deep cleaning, it’s best to routinely maintain sterling silver jewellery by wiping it with a cloth to remove dirt and restore its shine. Storing jewellery in a jewellery box (preferably separately) and avoiding contact with water—especially at the beach or swimming pool—will help keep it looking as beautiful as the day you bought it.

Now that sterling silver is clearer to you, don’t forget to visit our website and explore our catalogue to find your favourite silver jewellery. If you’re looking for high-quality 925 sterling silver jewellery, you’ll find rings, necklaces, earrings, and bracelets on our website, crafted in sterling silver and designed to accompany you every day with style and lasting durability. Enjoy your new silver pieces!