Silver is one of the most valued and used precious metals in jewelry, decorative objects, and coins throughout history. However, not all silver is the same, and one of the most common terms you’ll encounter is “925 Silver.” But have you ever wondered what that term means? In this post, we clear up your doubts and explain the benefits of this material.
What does 925 Silver mean?
925 Silver, also known as sterling silver, is an alloy that contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals. This alloy enhances the durability and resistance of silver, making it more suitable for the manufacture of jewelry and other objects that require greater resistance to wear.
History and origin of the term 925 Silver:
The use of sterling silver has its roots in the Middle Ages, specifically in the United Kingdom. The term “sterling” comes from the word “sterling,” which was used to refer to a silver coin that met a standard of purity. Since then, 925 silver has become the quality standard in the manufacture of jewelry and other silver items.
Why does it only contain 92.5% pure silver?
The number 925 represents the percentage of pure silver in the alloy. Since pure silver is very soft and prone to damage, it is mixed with other metals to increase its hardness and durability. In the past, metals such as nickel were used in these alloys; however, its use is now prohibited due to its adverse health effects, as it can be carcinogenic and cause allergic skin reactions. Therefore, it is essential to ensure that 925 sterling silver jewelry has an approved and safe alloy according to European Union regulations.
Advantages of 925 Silver:
925 silver is a popular choice in jewelry thanks to its unique properties and durability. Below, we show you the main advantages that make this material the ideal choice for your favorite pieces.
Durability and resistance 925 silver is much more resistant to scratches and wear than pure silver. This makes it ideal for the manufacture of jewelry that is used daily, such as rings, bracelets, and necklaces. Shine and appearance Sterling silver maintains the shine and appearance of pure silver, but with greater resistance. This means that 925 silver jewelry maintains its appearance for a long time. Hypoallergenic 925 silver with an alloy of non-toxic and non-carcinogenic metals, as manufactured by Salvatore Plata, is hypoallergenic, which means it is unlikely to cause allergic skin reactions. This makes it a safe and reliable option for people with sensitive skin.
How to identify 925 Silver?
To ensure that a piece of jewelry is 925 silver, look for marks or stamps indicating its purity. The most common stamps are “925”, “S925” or “Sterling”. These stamps guarantee that the piece contains 92.5% pure silver as they are placed once the pieces are analyzed in an official institute that certifies it.
If a piece of jewelry does not have this stamp, it may not be made of 925 silver. In these cases, it may be a silver alloy of lower purity or even a completely different metal with a silver plating. The absence of the stamp can also indicate lower quality. Therefore, it is always advisable to buy silver jewelry from trusted establishments and verify the presence of the purity stamp.
Are 925 Silver and Sterling Silver the same?
Yes, 925 silver and sterling silver are the same in the context of first-grade silver. When we say sterling silver, we mean that the jewelry has minimum purity levels established by law. In the case of Spain, the minimum silver content for jewelry to be considered sterling is 800 thousandths. There are two classes of sterling silver:
First-grade silver. Contains a minimum of 92.5% silver, also known as 925 silver.
Second-grade silver. Has between 80% and 92.4% purity.
Why does 925 Sterling Silver turn black?
You may have noticed that your 925 sterling silver jewelry darkens over time. Don’t worry, it’s a natural and common process, especially in rings, bracelets, and necklaces that are in continuous contact with the skin. This darkening, or sulfuration, is the natural way silver oxidizes. The good news is that this change is reversible and your jewelry can shine like the first day with proper care.
The main reasons why 925 Silver turns black
Skin pH. People with a more acidic skin pH may experience faster darkening of their silver jewelry.
Water type. Hard water with high levels of minerals, such as lime, can accelerate the oxidation process.
Mineral-medicinal waters. Waters with a high sulfur content can cause faster darkening.
Perfumes and colognes. Contact with certain chemicals and fragrances can damage the silver surface.
Improper storage. Storing silver in humid places or exposed to air can accelerate oxidation.
Use of medications. Some medications can alter skin pH, affecting silver.
Sulfur content in the air. Living in areas with higher amounts of sulfur in the air can accelerate the darkening process.
Care and maintenance of 925 Silver
To keep your 925 silver jewelry in perfect condition, it is important to follow these basic care tips:
Regular cleaning. Clean your jewelry frequently by immersing it in warm soapy water and drying it with a soft cloth to remove dirt and oil that may accumulate.
Proper use. Avoid wearing your 925 silver jewelry during intense physical activities or in places where it may be exposed to abrasive substances or strong blows.
Proper storage. Store your jewelry in a dry and cool place, preferably in bags to prevent oxidation. Try to store them separately to avoid contact with each other and prevent scratches.
Avoid chemicals. Keep your jewelry away from harsh chemicals such as perfumes, chlorine, and cleaning products, as they can damage the silver.
Annual tune-up. Take your jewelry to your trusted jeweler at least once a year for professional cleaning and inspection of possible wear or damage. This will help maintain its shine and ensure they are in perfect condition.
Difference between 925 Silver and other silvers
Silver, depending on its composition and purity, has different characteristics that make it more suitable for some uses than others. Below,
925 Silver at Salvatore Plata
We are a Spanish company that manufactures 925 silver jewelry certified by Aidime, thus ensuring the highest quality in all our pieces. Each design is created in Valencia, with meticulous attention to detail and incorporates the 925 stamp, which guarantees its authenticity and resistance.
Our collection includes a wide range of products, among which the following stand out:
Rings. From delicate solitaires to rings with more elaborate designs.
Earrings. Variety of styles, from small studs to long and dangling earrings.
Necklaces and pendants. Elegant and versatile designs for any occasion.
Bracelets. Classic and modern models to complement your look.
Anklets. To give a special touch to your summer style.
Brooches and charms. Unique pieces that add a touch of personality to any outfit.
Discover our entire collection in the online catalog and find the perfect jewel for you.
To purchase our products, you can do so through our distributors with an online store, which can be located through our search engine. If you prefer an in-person shopping experience, in this link you will find the nearest store to enjoy personalized advice from an expert jeweler. And if you are from Valencia, we invite you to visit our showroom located at Calle Conde de Salvatierra 22. 1
Also, if you are a distributor and you are interested in buying silver jewelry wholesale, visit our professionals section for more information and access to our exclusive B2B offer.
