Silver jewelry is shiny and beautiful and can be easily made into unique designs. The S925 Ring symbolizes prosperity and 25 years of marriage. If you’re a jewelry lover, you’ve undoubtedly bought or at least browsed through sterling silver rings, necklaces, bracelets, or earrings.
You may have seen jewelry online or in a department store and wondered if it is real silver or if there is a difference between sterling silver and pure silver. You don’t have to wonder the next time you shop for jewelry because we’ll tell you everything you need to know about silver and sterling silver jewelry.
What is silver?
Fine silver contains 99.9% pure silver and does not tarnish. Silver is a shiny, highly polishable metal that has been used throughout history for currency, decorative objects, and jewelry, but not without the support of other metals.
Silver is naturally too soft for practical, everyday use. But it is so beautiful that it cannot be used for ornaments and other beautiful decorations. That is why it is often mixed with other metals to create a more durable material called sterling silver.
What is S925 Ring?
Sterling silver is an alloy of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper or zinc. Sterling silver pieces are stamped 925 to indicate their authenticity. One theory is that King Henry II issued long-lived silver alloy coins known as “Easterling coins”, which evolved into “sterling” silver. Today the pound sterling is the standard currency unit of the UK.
Is Sterling S925 Ring?
Sterling silver is real silver – there is nothing wrong with it. It is simply an alloy of real silver and enough other metals to make it strong but not too hard to shape. Like 14k or 18k gold jewelry, silver must be alloyed to be wearable.
In the United States, the ratio of silver to other metals in real sterling silver is controlled, but jewelry from other countries often has a silver content of less than 92.5%. If you’re looking for sterling silver jewelry, be sure to avoid silver-plated jewelry, which is jewelry made from a cheaper metal that’s coated with a thin layer of silver.
How to tell if sterling silver is real
- S925 Ring marking. Real sterling silver jewelry is marked with these three numbers “Sterling” or “Sterling”.
- Hold the magnet on the silver. If the magnet sticks, your jewelry is not real sterling silver.
- The smell of sterling silver. If there is a strong metallic smell, your jewelry is not genuine sterling silver.
- Analyze the price tag. If the price of silver jewelry seems too high to be true, it may or may not be 925 sterling silver.
- Take the jewelry to a jeweler. If you want to be sure that your jewelry is genuine sterling silver, have it inspected by an expert.
What is the difference between sterling silver and sterling silver?
Sterling silver is an alloy composed primarily of silver with small amounts of copper and zinc for strengthening. If properly cared for, it can last a lifetime and be passed down through many generations. Silver is soft and not as durable as sterling silver.
It contains only 0.01% trace elements. Silver is hypoallergenic, but sterling silver is not because it is combined with zinc. Sterling silver tarnishes more easily than fine silver because it contains other metals.
Even though 925 sterling silver is less “pure” than sterling silver, that doesn’t mean it isn’t good. Sterling silver is a high-quality material that is both durable and beautiful to wear.
How to tell the difference between sterling silver and real silver
Sterling silver and silver look the same, and if you have silver jewelry, it’s probably sterling silver. The best indicator is a stamp or hallmark engraved with small numbers or letters. Sterling silver is 925 or STER and fine silver is 999 or FS.
What is better for jewelry – sterling silver or silver?
When designing and wearing jewelry, sterling silver is better than silver because it is strong and can look good for a lifetime. Fine silver jewelry can get damaged easily and is not the best option for regular use. Sterling silver is also better for setting gemstones. It is very easy to lose a gem in a 999 silver setting.
Does sterling silver tarnish?
Sterling silver tarnishes when sulfur-containing gaseous compounds in the air come in contact with sterling silver and react to form silver sulfate, which leaves a dark layer or tarnish effect on the silver. Moisture, chlorine, makeup, cleansers, and acids in your skin can also contribute to the darkening of the skin. However the stigma is not permanent and is not a cause for concern. Simply polish your sterling silver and it will be like new again.
How much does the S925 Ring sterling silver cost?
Sterling silver is the cheapest and highest quality jewelry material and can retain and even increase its value. There is only a slight price difference between sterling silver and fine silver. Determining the value of your sterling silver requires a simple calculation.
- Weigh your sterling silver in ounces or convert weight to ounces.
- View the current price of silver in ounces.
- Multiply the weight by 0.925 to determine how much pure silver is in your jewelry.
- Finally, multiply the weight of pure silver by the current price of silver to find out how much it is worth to you.
- Remember that the price of your silver jewelry does not determine the overall price. A piece of sterling silver jewelry is worth more than
- its silver counterpart. It also reflects the craftsmanship, uniqueness, gem, and age of the piece.
How to clean sterling silver jewelry
Sterling silver is easy to clean. You can clean your jewelry with silver polish and a polishing cloth, or gently brush it with warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush. For occasional deep cleaning, a soapy toothbrush is a good option, but for regular cleaning, wiping with a polishing cloth is best because it’s gentler.
