What is Sterling Silver?
Posted by Tamara Loyd on
925 sterling silver
Sterling silver is one of the most beloved materials in the world of jewelry. It is valued for its shine, durability, and versatility. But what makes sterling silver so special and why should you choose it?
What is Sterling Silver? Sterling silver is an alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This mixture makes the silver stronger and more durable than pure silver, which would be too soft for everyday use in jewelry.

How to Identify Sterling Silver? Sterling silver jewelry is often marked with a stamp, such as "925" or "Sterling," to indicate that it is genuine sterling silver. Look for this when purchasing to ensure authenticity.
Benefits of Sterling Silver:
- Durability: Sterling silver is strong and durable, making it ideal for everyday use.
- Hypoallergenic: For many people, sterling silver is a good choice because it is less likely to cause allergic reactions than some other metals.
- Beautiful Shine: Sterling silver has a beautiful shine that goes well with both casual and formal outfits.
- Affordability: Compared to gold, sterling silver is more affordable, while still having a luxurious appearance.
Here are some maintenance tips for your jewelry:
Tip 1: Regular Polishing To keep your sterling silver jewelry shiny, it is important to polish it regularly with a soft cloth or a special silver polish.
Tip 2: Avoid Contact with Chemicals Sterling silver can develop tarnish if it comes into contact with certain chemicals, such as cleaning products, perfumes and hairspray. Wear your jewelry only after applying these products.
Tip 3: Store in a Dry Place Prevent tarnishing by storing your jewelry in a dry place, preferably in an airtight bag or box. This will help minimize oxidation.
The answers to some frequently asked questions about sterling silver:
Question: "What is the difference between sterling silver and pure silver?" Answer: Pure silver (99.9% silver) is too soft for jewelry, while sterling silver (92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals) is more durable and more resistant to wear.
Question: "How do I remove tarnish from my sterling silver jewelry?" Answer: Use a soft cloth or a special silver polish to remove tarnish. For stubborn tarnish, you can use a silver cleaning bath.