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What does Sterling Silver mean?

What does Sterling Silver mean?

In short, sterling silver is a high-quality alloy used for jewelry and silverware that consists of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper).

Pure silver is naturally very soft—almost like clay—making it impractical for items like rings or forks that need to hold their shape. By mixing in a small amount of harder metal, silversmiths create a material that is durable and strong while retaining the beautiful luster of silver.

How to Identify It

You can usually tell if a piece is genuine sterling silver by looking for a tiny engraving called a hallmark. Common marks include:

  • 925: This is the most common stamp, representing the 92.5% silver content.

  • STER: Short for "Sterling."

  • Sterling Silver: The full name stamped on larger items.

Sterling Silver vs. Pure Silver

FeaturePure Silver (.999)Sterling Silver (.925)
Silver Content99.9%92.5%
DurabilityVery soft; bends easilyStrong; great for daily wear
Common UsesBullion bars, investment coinsJewelry, cutlery, musical instruments
TarnishTarnishes very slowlyTarnishes faster (due to the copper)

Why is it called "Sterling"?

The name is quite old, dating back to 12th-century England. It is believed to have originated from the "Easterlings," a group of North German merchants who traded with the British using high-quality silver coins. Eventually, the British adopted this standard for their own currency (the Pound Sterling), and the name stuck as a benchmark for quality silver.

Quick Care Tips

  • Wear it often: The natural oils in your skin can actually help keep silver clean and shiny.

  • Avoid chemicals: Take off your sterling silver jewelry before swimming in chlorinated pools or using household cleaners.

  • Store it dry: Keep it in a cool, dry place, ideally in a tarnish-resistant pouch or an airtight bag.