Different Types of Silver

There are different types of silver. Pure silver is soft and malleable, so it is alloyed with other metals like copper, and nickel to make it harder and more suitable for practical applications. The purity of silver is measured on a millesimal fineness scale, where 1,000 represents 100% pure silver, 600 fineness means 60% pure silver

The most common types of silver are:

• 999 fine silver (99.9% pure) – the accepted standard for “pure” silver used in investment bullion
• Sterling silver is a type of silver that is 92.5% pure. It was first established as the minimum standard for silver coins in England in the 1300s by King Edward I. People continued to use it for silver coinage for centuries. Today, sterling silver remains the minimum accepted standard for silver in the United States and many other countries.

Silver items in the UK must be hallmarked to indicate the type of silver, with the fineness stamped as a number inside an oval (e.g. 925 for sterling silver). The hallmark also includes the maker’s mark and assay office.

Silver Alloys

Silver alloys are mixtures of silver with other metals to create a stronger and more durable material. To improve the strength and resistance to wear and tarnish, jewelers create alloys from fine silver, which is too soft and easily damaged.

In jewelry and other products, using silver alloys allows for beautiful designs to last longer and hold their shape better, making them ideal for rings, necklaces, and various decorative items.

Silver Grades

Silver grades reflect the different levels of purity in silver products, determined by the percentage of silver content in the alloy. These grades help customers understand the quality and value of the silver they buy. 

For example, fine silver has a grade of .999, meaning it contains 99.9% pure silver. Sterling silver, with a grade of .925, contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The higher the silver content, the purer and more valuable the silver is. Here is the table that shows some common grades of silver.

Type of Silver	Fineness	Common Name	Region
Fine Silver	99.9% – 99.99%	Pure Silver, .999 Silver	Global
Argentium Sterling Silver	96%	Argentium	Global
Britannia Silver	95.80%	Britannia	United Kingdom
French 1st Standard	95%	French Standard	France
91 Zolotnik Russian Silver	94.70%	Russian Silver	Russia
Sterling Silver	92.50%	.925 Silver	Global
88 Zolotnik Russian Silver	91.60%	Russian Silver	Russia
84 Zolotnik Russian Silver	87.50%	Russian Silver	Russia
Scandinavian Silver	83%	European Silver	Scandinavia
German Silver	80% – 83.5%	European Silver	Germany
Coin Silver	75% – 90%	Standard Silver, One Nine Fine	USA
Non-Tarnish Silver	92.5% – 96%	Sterlium, Silvadium, Sterilite	Global
Mexican Silver	92.50%	Mexican Silver, Sterling Silver	Mexico
Thai Silver	92.5% – 99%	Hill Tribe Silver	Thailand
Bali Silver	92.50%	Balinese Silver	Indonesia

Importance

Pure silver, though soft and malleable, is reasonably resistant to corrosion. However, adding other metals to create alloys decreases this resistance. 

Historically, manufacturers had to balance between strength and corrosion prevention when choosing silver grades. Fine 999 silver suits items with minimal wear, like earrings and picture frames, but it lacks the durability needed for rings and cutlery. Jewelers make these items from stronger silver alloys.

Jewelers commonly add copper to silver alloys, often mixing in small amounts of zinc or nickel. However, nickel in sterling silver jewelry can cause allergies. 

Metallurgical research in 1990 led to the creation of tarnish-resistant alloys like Argentium Sterling Silver, composed of silver, copper, and germanium. Although more expensive than traditional sterling silver, Argentium is virtually tarnish-free.

Different Types Silver

People often use the term “silver” to describe anything with a mirror-like sheen. However, jewelers prefer platinum and palladium for high-end silver-colored jewelry because they are more valuable, harder, and more resistant to tarnish than silver.

“Tribal Silver,” “Tibetan Silver,” and “Nickel Silver” contain no actual silver; instead, they are just base metals with a silver-colored finish. Jewelers also use silver as an alloy with gold to produce “White Gold,” and they often rhodium-plate both gold and silver jewelry to provide a hard, tarnish-resistant finish.

Historically, mints made silver coins from fine silver, sterling silver, or coin silver. However, as the value of silver increased, the UK stopped using actual silver in its common currency after 1947. Today, the metal content of these coins is worth less than their face value.

Different types of silver are discussed below:

Fine .999 Silver

Fine .999 silver, also known as pure silver, is the most refined type of silver available. It contains 99.9% pure silver with only 0.1% of other metals. The high purity of fine silver gives it a bright, lustrous appearance and makes it ideal for jewelry, decorative items, and investment pieces. However, its softness also makes it less durable than other silver alloys.

Some key benefits of fine .999 silver include:

• Hypoallergenic properties due to the lack of other metals
• Ability to hold its value and resale value better than other silver types
• Excellent reflectivity, reflecting up to 90% of natural light

Uses: Jewelers commonly use fine silver for special occasion jewelry, commemorative coins, and investment-grade bullion. Its purity and beauty make it a popular choice for those seeking the finest quality silver.

Sterling .925 Silver

Sterling silver is made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination makes it stronger and more durable than pure silver, which is too soft for everyday use. The added metals help prevent scratches and tarnishing, allowing sterling silver to maintain its shine and beauty. 

Jewelry makers favor sterling silver for its durability, attractiveness, and affordability compared to gold, and they craft it into intricate designs.

Uses: Some common uses of sterling silver include:

• Jewelry: Rings, necklaces, bracelets, and earrings
• Home Decor: Picture frames, cutlery, and decorative pieces
• Coins and Medals: Collectible coins and awards
• Crafts: Custom jewelry and art pieces made by artisans

Argentium Silver and Non-Tarnish Alloys

Argentium silver is a special type of silver alloy that is known for its high tarnish resistance. It typically contains 93.5% to 96% silver, along with a small amount of germanium instead of copper. What sets Argentium silver apart from traditional sterling silver is its ability to resist tarnishing, which means it stays shiny and beautiful for a longer time without needing constant cleaning. 

Adding germanium helps prevent fire scale, a common problem that occurs when heating silver. This makes Argentium silver easier to work with for jewelers and artisans.

Uses:

• Jewelry: Earrings, necklaces, rings, and bracelets that benefit from the alloy’s bright finish and tarnish resistance.
• Decorative Items: Picture frames, cutlery, and other decorative pieces that require a durable and low-maintenance material.
• Specialized Applications: Components in electronics and other industries that need silver with high thermal and electrical resistance.

Coin Silver

Coin silver refers to a type of silver alloy that was historically used in the production of silver coins. It typically contains 90% pure silver and 10% copper. The name “coin silver” comes from its use in minting coins, particularly in the United States during the 18th and 19th centuries.

Coin silver has a lower purity level than fine silver (.999) and sterling silver (.925), but it still serves as a high-quality alloy suitable for various applications. Its durability and affordability made it a popular choice for everyday items such as tableware, jewelry, and decorative objects.

Uses of Coin Silver:

• Coins: The U.S. Mint used coin silver until 1964 when it reduced the silver content.
• Flatware and Tableware: Coin silver was commonly used for making spoons, forks, and other dining utensils.
• Jewelry: Coin silver was used in the creation of various jewelry pieces, including rings, bracelets, and pendants.
• Decorative Objects: Craftsmen used coin silver to make vases, candlesticks, and other decorative items.

Though modern coin production no longer uses coin silver, collectors and enthusiasts of antique silver items still appreciate its historical significance.

Britannia Silver

Britannia silver is a high-purity silver alloy that contains at least 95.84% pure silver, with the remaining 4.16% typically being copper. England introduced Britannia silver in 1697 to replace sterling silver (.925) in producing silver coins and other silver items. Britannia is softer and more malleable than sterling silver, making it easier to work with and allowing for more intricate designs. 

Although artisans no longer use Britannia silver for coins, they still use it to make high-quality flatware, decorative items, and collectible coins like the Royal Mint’s “Britannia.”

Uses of Britannia Silver:

• Coins: Minting British silver coins from 1697 to the late 20th century used Britannia silver.
• Flatware: Britannia silver is used for making high-quality silverware, such as spoons, forks, and knives.
• Decorative Items: Britannia silver is used in the creation of various decorative objects, including vases, candlesticks, and other ornamental pieces.
• Collectible Coins: The Royal Mint’s silver bullion coins, known as “Britannia,” were minted in Britannia standard silver until 2012.

European silver

European silver, specifically 800 and 830 silver, refers to silver alloys that contain 80% and 83% pure silver, respectively. The main difference between them is the percentage of silver; 800 silver has 80% silver and 20% other metals, while 830 silver has 83% silver and 17% other metals. 

These alloys were commonly used in various European countries, particularly in Germany and Italy, and are often referred to as “continental silver.” Their slightly lower purity compared to sterling silver makes them more durable and suitable for everyday usage. Both types of silver have historical significance and are valued for their craftsmanship and beauty.

Uses of European Silver (800 and 830 Silver):

• Flatware: Used for making spoons, forks, and knives due to its durability.
• Jewelry: Commonly used in rings, bracelets, and necklaces.
• Coins: Historically used in minting coins in various European countries.
• Decorative Items: Used for creating vases, picture frames, and other ornamental objects.

Types of Silver Coatings

You can categorize silver coatings into two main types: silver-filled and silver-plated items.

Silver-Filled

Process of Creating Silver-Filled Items: Silver-filled items are created by bonding a thick layer of sterling silver to a base metal, usually copper or brass. The process involves heating and pressing the silver onto the core metal, which results in a durable product that looks like solid silver. Silver-filled items can contain different amounts of silver, such as 1/10 or 1/20, meaning that 10% or 5% of the total weight is sterling silver.  The bonded layer is much thicker than that of silver plating, providing better durability and a longer lifespan.

Pros:

• Cost-Effective: Silver-filled items are less expensive than solid silver but still offer a significant amount of silver content.
• Durability: The thicker silver layer means it lasts longer than silver-plated items.
• Appearance: Silver-filled items look and feel like solid silver.

Cons:

• Maintenance: Requires regular polishing to maintain its shine.
• Resale Value: Lower resale value compared to solid silver.
• Possible Tarnishing: Can still tarnish over time, though less likely than silver-plated items.

Silver-Plated

Plating Process: Jewelers apply a thin layer of silver over a base metal, such as copper or brass, to create silver-plated items. They usually use electroplating, which bonds the silver to the base metal with an electric current. This creates a shiny, silver-like finish that looks attractive but is much thinner than solid silver. 

Longevity and Care Tips:

• Durability: Silver-plated items are not as durable as silver-filled or solid silver items. The thin layer of silver can wear off over time, especially with frequent use.
• Maintenance: Requires careful handling and gentle cleaning to avoid rubbing off the silver layer. Avoid exposure to water, perfume, and sweat to prolong the lifespan.
• Storage: Store silver-plated items separately in a dry place to prevent scratches and tarnishing.

Other Silver Alloys

Nickel Silver

The name “nickel silver” often leads to misunderstandings about the metal. Despite having “silver” in its name, it does not contain any actual silver. Instead, it is an alloy made up of nickel, copper, and zinc. The name refers to its shiny, silver-like appearance rather than its composition. This can lead to confusion for buyers who might think they are purchasing a product. 

Uses: Jewelers commonly use nickel silver to make costume jewelry, musical instruments, and decorative items because it is durable and inexpensive. However, it is not true silver, so it does not have the same value or properties.

Tribal and Regional Silver (Tibetan, Bali, Thai, Mexican)

Tribal and regional silver refers to the unique silver items made by different cultures, such as Tibetan, Bali, Thai, and Mexican artisans. Each region has its style and techniques, which give these pieces special characteristics and cultural significance. 

For example, artisans craft Tibetan silver with intricate designs for use in spiritual jewelry, while they create Mexican silver with a bright, polished look and notable craftsmanship. The purity of these silver items varies, and jewelers often make them from alloys that lack the purity of sterling silver.

Craftspeople often pass down the craftsmanship in these items through generations, making them not only beautiful but also meaningful representations of their cultures.

How to Test for Silver Quality

Testing the quality of silver can be done using several common methods. One popular way is to look for a hallmark or stamp, which indicates the silver’s purity, such as “925” for sterling silver. This method is quick and easy but only works if the item has a visible mark. Here is a table of common tests that will help you identify the quality of silver.

Silver Tests

Test Name	Procedure	Indicators of Real Of Silver
Magnet Test	Use a strong magnet (e.g., neodymium) and hold it near the silver item.	No attraction to the magnet indicates real silver.
Stamp Test	Inspect the item with a magnifying glass for hallmarks or stamps, and verify official marks.	Presence of hallmarks like the “925” fineness mark indicates authenticity.
Skin Marking Test	Wear the item for a few hours or a day and check for any skin discoloration after wearing it.	No green or black marks on the skin suggest genuine silver.
Acid Test	Scratch the item in a hidden area with a jeweler’s file, apply a drop of nitric acid to the scratched area, and observe the reaction.	Creamy white spot: high-quality silver.Black spot: coin silver (80% silver).Green spot: not silver (high copper content). Safety: Wear gloves and protective eyewear, and work in a well-ventilated area.
Bleach Test	Choose an inconspicuous area on the item, apply a drop of bleach, observe the reaction, and wash immediately after testing.	Turns black when bleach is applied indicates real silver.
Odor Test	Smell the item.	Genuine silver has no noticeable smell.
Polish Test	Apply a small amount of silver polish to the item, rub gently with a soft cloth, and observe the shine.	Bright and even shine after polishing suggests genuine silver.
Flake Test	Inspect the surface for any signs of flaking or chipping, scratch lightly with a fingernail or soft tool, and check for any flakes.	No flaking or chipping under light pressure indicates solid silver.
Ice Test	Place a small ice cube on a flat surface, put the silver item next to or on top of the ice cube, and observe the melting speed.	Ice melts significantly faster on silver due to high thermal conductivity.
Visual & Tactile Inspection	Look for hallmarks/stamps indicating purity (e.g., “925”), check for tarnish or oxidation, feel the texture, and look for high craftsmanship.	Presence of hallmarks, signs of tarnish, smooth and cool texture, bright and reflective appearance.
Sound Test	Gently tap the item with another metal object (e.g., a spoon) and listen for the sound.	The clear, resonant, high-pitched ringing sound indicates real silver.
Advanced Verification Techniques	Use X-ray fluorescence (XRF) analysis at a jewelry store or appraisal service.	Accurate identification of silver and other metals’ presence.

Choosing the Best Type of Silver

When choosing the best type of silver for your needs, consider several important factors. First, think about the purpose of the silver: are you buying it for jewelry, investment, or decorative items? 

Different types of silver are better suited for different uses. For example, sterling silver is a popular choice for everyday jewelry because it is durable and affordable, while fine silver is more valuable but softer and less practical for items that will get a lot of wear.

Next, consider your budget, as prices can vary widely depending on the type and quality of silver. Also, think about how much care you are willing to give; some silver types, like sterling silver, require regular cleaning to prevent tarnishing, while others, like Argentium silver, are more resistant to tarnish and easier to maintain. 

By evaluating these factors, you can make an informed decision and choose the right type of silver that fits your needs and lifestyle.

Hallmarks

Hallmarks are special stamps found on silver and other precious metals that indicate the metal’s purity and the maker’s identity. 

To read a hallmark, look for numbers that show the metal’s purity, such as “.925” for sterling silver, which means it contains 92.5% silver. 

The maker or the place where the item was made may use other symbols. Understanding these marks can help you determine the quality and authenticity of silver items.

Care and Maintenance Tips of Silver

Taking care of silver is important to keep it looking beautiful and shiny. Here are some tips for maintaining different types of silver:

• Sterling Silver: Clean it regularly with a soft cloth to remove tarnish. You can also use a silver polish or a special silver cleaning solution. Avoid using abrasive materials that can scratch the surface.
• Fine Silver: Since fine silver is softer, be gentle when cleaning it. Use a soft cloth and a gentle cleaner made of silver. Store it in a cloth pouch or a lined box to protect it from scratches.
• Argentium Silver: This type is more resistant to tarnish, but it’s still good to clean it with a soft cloth. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the silver.
• Silver-Plated Items: Gently clean these to avoid wearing away the thin layer of silver. Use a soft cloth and avoid soaking them in water.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Storing Silver in Humid Places: Humidity can cause tarnishing, so store silver in a dry place.
• Using Abrasive Cleaners: Avoid harsh cleaners or scrubbing pads that can scratch or damage the silver.
• Wearing Silver in Water: Try not to wear silver jewelry while swimming or showering, as water can cause tarnishing.
• Ignoring Tarnish: Don’t wait too long to clean tarnished silver, as it can become harder to restore its shine.

Conclusion

Understanding the different types of silver and their qualities is crucial for making informed decisions about silver products, whether for investment, jewelry, or decorative use. Each type of silver, from pure fine silver to various alloys like sterling and Argentium, offers unique benefits and characteristics. 

By recognizing the grades, hallmark standards, and care requirements, you can select the best silver for your needs and ensure its longevity. Knowledge of silver testing methods also helps in verifying authenticity and value. Proper maintenance will keep your silver pieces looking their best for years to come.