What is 925 silver (sterling silver)

925 silver is the most common silver in jewelry. The 925 means that out of every 1000 parts, 925 are pure silver.

Composition #

92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. Pure silver (999) is too soft for jewelry worn daily; the copper gives it hardness.

Sterling, 925, sterling silver #

These are all names for the same thing: 925 silver. In Spanish it is called plata de ley; in English, sterling silver.

Does it tarnish? #

Yes: the copper and the silver itself react with sulfur in the environment. It cleans easily; see the guide to cleaning silver.

Is it hypoallergenic? #

For most people, yes. Some alloys can contain traces of nickel; if you are sensitive, buy silver guaranteed nickel-free.

Gold-plated silver #

“925 silver plated in gold” is sterling silver with a layer of gold (vermeil or plating). See the guide to plating and vermeil.

See also #

• Jewelry hallmarks and stamps: what 925, 750 or 585 mean
• How to tell if silver is real
• Silver