Sterling silver is 92.5% real silver, and that small “925” stamp determines whether you’re buying genuine precious metal or an overpriced imitation. Yet thousands of buyers still confuse sterling silver with pure silver, silver-plated jewellery, or fake alloys. If you’re spending on rings, chains, bangles, or gifts, you need to know exactly what 925 means, how hallmarking protects you, how much your silver is actually worth per gram, and how to verify authenticity before you pay. This complete buying guide breaks down sterling silver clearly, so you can buy with confidence and not confusion.
Key Takeaways
- Sterling silver contains 92.5% real silver
- 925, .925 and 92.5 all mean the same purity level
- It is stronger and more practical than pure silver
- It can tarnish, but tarnish is removable
- Real 925 silver is not the same as silver-plated jewellery
- It retains intrinsic metal value
- Proper care allows it to last decades
In This Article
Is Sterling Silver Real Silver?
Is Sterling Silver Pure Silver?
Sterling Silver vs. Pure Silver — What’s the Difference?
Pros and Cons of Sterling Silver
How to Clean & Maintain Sterling Silver
How Much Is 925 Sterling Silver Worth?
How to Spot Fake Sterling Silver
Hallmarking & Legal Standards for Sterling Silver
Is Sterling Silver Hypoallergenic?
Common Myths About Sterling Silver
What Is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is a precious metal alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper).
Pure silver (99.9%), often referred to as “fine silver”, is too soft for jewellery. It can bend, dent, or scratch easily. The addition of a small amount of another metal gives the silver structural strength without significantly changing its colour or shine.That’s why sterling silver is the global jewellery standard.
Key takeaway:
Sterling silver keeps silver’s beauty but adds the durability needed for rings, chains, bangles, earrings, and everyday items, something pure silver can’t offer.
What Does 925 Mean?
When you see a piece stamped with “925”, that means:
- The metal contains 92.5% silver
- The rest (7.5%) is alloy metal, usually copper
- The stamp is the international standard for sterling silver authenticity
This is why “925”, “.925”, and “92.5%” are all used interchangeably.
Legally in many regions (including EU, UK, and common jewellery markets), a piece must meet this percentage to be labelled “sterling silver.”
