Does Sterling Silver Mean Real Silver?

Sterling silver is one of the most popular precious metals used in jewelry and other decorative items. It is a popular choice for its affordability and its beautiful luster. But does sterling silver mean real silver? The answer is yes, sterling silver is real silver.

What is Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. It is the most popular type of silver used in jewelry and other decorative items. The name “sterling” comes from the Old English word “sterling,” which means “excellent” or “genuine.”

The Benefits of Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is an affordable and beautiful precious metal, and because it is an alloy, it is very durable. Sterling silver will tarnish due to the addition of copper, but can easily be polished with a silver polishing cloth. It is also hypoallergenic, which makes it a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

How to Identify Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is usually marked with the word “sterling” or the number “925.” If the item is not marked, you can use a magnet to test it. Sterling silver is not magnetic, so if the item is attracted to the magnet, it is not sterling silver.

What is Fine Silver?

You may notice that some of my pieces are bezeled in fine silver. Fine silver is made up of 99% pure silver, and does not include any other metals. It is also a popular type of silver used in jewelry and decorative items.

The Benefits of Fine Silver

Because it is not alloyed with other metals, fine silver is very soft, but is a great choice for bezeling stones because of its malleability. And because there is no copper, fine silver does not tarnish like sterling silver, and requires very minimal polishing.

How to identify Fine Silver

Fine silver is marked with “999” or “.999”.

Sterling and fine silver both have uses in jewelry making, and it’s important to choose the right metal for the job. Use sterling silver for durability when making rings or pieces that will be subject to bumps and bruises. Use fine silver when you need a softer metal that is easier to work with, and will be worn around the neck or in a place that won’t get much wear and tear.