Sterling silver

Sterling silver is silver alloyed to 92.5% pure silver, with 7.5% other metals. Those added metals, such as copper or nickel, make the silver strong and durable enough for jewellery. The 925 in the stamp is the same figure written as parts per thousand: 925 of every 1,000 parts are silver.

In Canada, the Precious Metals Marking Regulations allow “silver”, “sterling” or “sterling silver”, or the quality shown in decimals, only on an article with at least 925 parts of silver per 1,000. The tolerance is tight. Actual silver may fall short of the marked quality by no more than 2 parts per 1,000 where no solder is used, or 6 parts where solder is used, so a piece stamped 925 can legally test as low as 923 in the first case. The same regulations let “vermeil” describe a 925 silver article plated with gold of at least 10 karats.

Outside Canada the rules differ. The US FTC Jewelry Guides, which are US rules, reserve “sterling” for products at least 925/1,000ths silver and ask for a fineness number before the bare word “silver”. UK hallmarking lists 925 as a standard mark. See precious metal quality marks for how Canadian stamps work.

Silver tarnishes when exposed to ozone, hydrogen sulfide or air containing sulfur. It is prone to tarnishing in air and moisture, which dims its sheen over time, but the tarnish can be removed with silver polish or a polishing cloth. For a tarnished piece, use a cleaner made specifically for silver or a polishing cloth designed for it.

Keep chlorine bleach and abrasive cleansers away from your jewellery. They can erode the metals used in settings and can damage some metal alloys. Some silver is given a rhodium coating, which adds a mirror-like shine and a barrier against tarnishing, but it is a thin surface layer. Rhodium plating on white gold wears away gradually and needs occasional re-plating. See rhodium plating, and the jewellery care guide for everyday cleaning.

Silver is soft. It can scratch and takes on an aged appearance, and sterling is more susceptible to scratches and dents than white gold. That is why sterling is a popular choice for jewellery but rarely used for engagement rings or wedding bands. A ring takes more knocks than an earring or a pendant, so softness matters most there.

That does not make sterling a poor metal. It is a sensible fit where the piece will not be worn hard, and its look and price are real strengths. The table shows how it compares with the metals usually chosen for rings that are worn every day.

GIA says sterling silver, particularly with minimal nickel content, is generally safe for most people with sensitive skin. The catch is the 7.5% that is not silver. The added metals can include copper or nickel, and nickel is a common allergen. If you react to certain metals, ask what the rest of the alloy is before you buy. Platinum and palladium are the alternatives usually called hypoallergenic.

Sterling suits pieces where cost matters more than hardness, or that take less wear: earrings, pendants, or a fashion ring you do not wear daily. Silver is a very affordable metal, generally more affordable than white gold.

For a ring or band meant for daily wear over many years, compare it with white gold, platinum and palladium first. The gold vs platinum guide sets out the trade-offs, and you can see how metals look and feel in the design studio or at a showroom.