The major difference between Sterling Silver and regular silver lies in their composition and durability. Sterling Silver is an alloy containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like copper, making it stronger and more suitable for jewelry and utensils.
Pure silver or fine silver, is 99.9% pure but is softer and less durable, making it less practical for everyday use without alloying with other metals.
Buy silver and Sterling Silver
Different types of silver, like pure silver and sterling silver, can be identified by their hallmarks. In the UK, the 1973 Hallmarking Act mandates that all silver items be marked to show their silver content.
925 hallmark indicates the fineness of sterling silver, meaning it is 92.5% pure silver. This stamp is on silver products like coins, bars, and jewelry. Pure silver has a fineness of 999 which is higher than sterling silver fineness.
Comparison of Sterling Silver with Other Silver Alloy
Sterling silver is the most common and affordable silver alloy. Fine silver, Argentium silver, and Britannia silver contain higher purity and special properties but are more expensive. The choice between these silver alloys depends on the desired balance of cost, durability, tarnish resistance, and intended use.
| Property | Sterling Silver (.925) | Fine Silver (.999) | Argentium Silver | Britannia Silver (.999) |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Silver Content | 92.5% silver, 7.5% other metals (usually copper) | 99.9% pure silver | Minimum 92.5% silver, with added germanium | 99.9% pure silver |
| Melting Point | 893°C (1,640°F) | 961.8°C (1,763°F) | 940°C (1,724°F) | 961.8°C (1,763°F) |
| Boiling Point | 2,212°C (4,014°F) | 2,162°C (3,924°F) | 2,212°C (4,014°F) | 2,162°C (3,924°F) |
| Appearance | Bright, lustrous silver color | Slightly duller, more vitreous luster | Similar to sterling, may have a whiter tone | Bright, lustrous silver color |
Sterling Silver vs Silver Coins
As sterling silver is less pure than silver coins, it is widely used for jewelry, flatware, decorative items, and other functional purposes. Silver coins are 99.9% pure and primarily used for investment, collecting and legal tender.
Does Sterling Silver Tarnish
In comparison with pure silver, sterling silver is less resistant to Turnishing. It tarnishes because it reacts with sulfur, oxygen, and other substances in the air, as well as oils from skin, perfumes, and cleaning products. This causes a dark film to form on its surface over time.
With proper care and storage, it can maintain its luster for years. Tarnish is a natural process but does not damage the underlying metal. Regular cleaning and polishing will restore the shine.
Care of Pure and Sterling Silver Items
To keep both pure silver and sterling silver items in good condition for longer, store them in a dark, dry place to avoid exposure to air and water. Use anti-tarnish liquids and a soft cloth for regular cleaning to maintain their shine.
Pricing and Market Value
- Sterling Silver: Typically it is more affordable than pure gold due to its lower purity and alloy composition. Market value is based on the current gold market prices with adjustments for purity and alloy content.
- Pure Silver: Commands a higher price in the market due to its purity and rarity. It is Highly desired for its investment value and purity, influencing its market price.
Why Use Sterling Silver Instead of Pure Silver
Sterling silver offers several advantages over fine silver that might sway your choice. Firstly, it’s more affordable due to its lower purity, yet it looks just as elegant. Secondly, its durability is enhanced by metal alloys, ensuring longevity. Lastly, sterling silver’s greater strength makes it easier to craft into diverse styles than the softer fine silver.
FAQs
The main difference is purity. Sterling Silver is an alloy containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. Regular silver refers to pure silver that is 99.9% silver with no alloy additions.
Yes, the addition of other metals like copper makes Sterling Silver more durable and scratch-resistant compared to pure silver. However, Sterling Silver is more prone to tarnishing due to its copper content.
It can be difficult to visually distinguish Sterling Silver from pure silver. The best way is to look for a “925” stamp which indicates Sterling Silver. Pure silver is usually stamped “999” for 99.9% purity.
Yes, because Sterling Silver contains less pure silver, it is more affordable than pure silver jewelry and items. The lower silver content makes Sterling Silver pieces less expensive to produce.
That 925 stamped on the inside of your ring is a sign that it’s made of sterling silver. Specifically, this means that 92.5% of the metal in the jewelry is pure sterling silver!
Yes, the copper content in Sterling Silver causes it to tarnish more quickly than pure silver. The copper reacts with sulfur and other elements in the air to form a dark tarnish. Pure silver is more resistant to tarnishing.
