Is 925 sterling silver real?

925 Sterling silver contains 92.5\% pure silver which is mixed with some sort of alloy material such as copper. Because silver is a soft metal, this coating can be scratched off and tarnished easily, eventually exposing the metal or alloy underneath when the coating is removed.

Does silver have to be stamped 925?

In order for a silver to be classified as sterling silver, it must meet at least a 92.5 purity, AKA 925. So, as you can see: 925 silver is the same thing as sterling silver. Sterling silver allows for easy working, while still maintaining the majority of white shine that typifies the precious metal.

Is there fake sterling silver?

Sterling silver is much cheaper than costlier metals such as gold, and yet, fake imitations of sterling silver jewelry are wildly sold in the market. A jewelry is considered to be fine silver if it contains 92.5\% (or more) of pure silver but pure silver is too soft to be used without another metal.

How do I know if something is real silver?

“Silver also oxidizes and tarnishes. Rub the tarnished piece as if polishing. If no black residue appears on your cloth, it’s not silver.” Polishing the silver item is a very good indicator of its authenticity. Rust or a lack of oxidation indicates that the item is made of a different material from silver.

What is 925 sterling silver jewelry?

Sterling silver, also known as 925 sterling silver, is a metal alloy used in jewelry and decorative household objects. Traditionally, it is 92.5\% silver (Ag), and 7.5\% copper (Cu). Occasionally, other metals account for 7.5\%, but the 925 hallmark will always indicate 92.5\% silver purity.

Why does 925 silver tarnish?

Sterling silver is prone to tarnishing when exposed to open air due to sulfide production. See the time-lapse video below to see how 925 silver in silverware or sterling silverware tarnishes over time when exposed to open air. If playback doesn’t begin shortly, try restarting your device.

How can I tell if my sterling silver is real?

If it’s particularly small, a jeweler’s loupe or magnifying glass may be helpful in spotting the sterling silver 925 stamp and other jewelry hallmarks. The stamp 925 is used to identify genuine sterling silver jewelry, which contains 92.5\% silver.

Is your sterling silver jewelry authentic?

This is especially important if you’re allergic to nickel as fake jewelry can cause you to break out in a rash. Let’s say you pick up a .925 sterling silver bracelet. If it’s the real thing, all genuine sterling silver jewelry will have the .925 sterling silver stamp.