What is 925 Sterling Silver Made of?

Ancient coins such as this were often made of silver.

Sterling silver is one of the most beautiful and valuable metals in the world. Most silver jewelry and tableware sets are made from 925 sterling silver. These creations are not only attractive, they also hold their value.

Purity

A sterling silver bracelet is often made of 92.5% silver.

According to Indigo Silver, "925 sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper." Copper is added to the silver to increase the strength of the silver while maintaining its softness and workability. Other metals that may be found in 925 silver include germanium, zinc, and platinum added by jewelers.

History

The term "sterling silver" in regards to 925 grade first appeared in England during the 13th century. Its origins are likely traceable to the English trade with the Hanseatic League (a group of five villages in Germany from a region known as "Easterling" that banded together in the 12th century). The Hanseatic League used coins of 92.5% silver, known in England as "Easterling Silver" for its quality, to purchase English cattle and grain according to Indigo Silver.

Identification

According to Emitations Affordable Elegance, in many countries precious metals must be stamped with quality marks such as "925" for sterling silver. In the United States, the National Gold and Silver Marketing Act does not require jewelers or marketers to mark items with the quality of the metal.

References

• Emitations Affordable Elegance: 925 Sterling Silver Information
• Modern Silver Magazine: Basic Hallmark Identification
• Indigo Silver: What is 925 Silver?

Resources

• Wrapped In Silver: The History of Sterling Silver