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A: Sterling silver is an alloy of silver containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% of other metals, usually copper. Silver jewelry marked with a 925 is sterling silver jewelry that has been certified to contain 92.5% silver content. Sterling silver is harder than silver and is more suitable for jewelry making.
Is sterling silver and 925 the same?
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.
Is 925 sterling silver good quality?
Bottom line: Sterling silver, aka 925 silver is hypoallergenic, high quality, stylish and safe.
Does 925 sterling silver rust or tarnish?
Pure silver is not susceptible to tarnish in a pure oxygen environment. However, the copper that is contained in 925 sterling silver may react to the ozone and hydrogen sulfide in the air and cause sterling silver to tarnish. Perfumes, hair sprays, and profuse sweating can also cause a quicker formation of tarnish.
What is the best quality sterling silver?
999 silver jewelry is the closest you’ll get to pure silver. It’s called . 999 silver because it’s technically 99.9% pure silver! This type of silver is the highest quality silver you can buy.
Does 925 silver turn green?
It is 925 Sterling silver. 925 silver will never turn your finger green or any other color. That is what a silver cloth does for a 925 sterling silver ring.
Does 925 silver turn black?
925 Sterling Silver darkens due to daily use, as well as for other reasons. If it tends to be acidic, there is more chance that the silver will turn black. That explains why your jewelry can tarnish faster than the jewelry of other people.
Why is sterling silver so cheap?
This is a serious issue because many jewelers are known to sell fake sterling silver necklaces, rings, earrings and so on. 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.
Can you wear 925 sterling silver everyday?
Can you wear sterling silver every day? The simple answer is yes. You can (and should) wear your sterling silver as much as possible.
Can you wear 925 sterling silver in the shower?
Though showering with sterling silver jewelry on should not harm the metal, there is a good chance that it could induce tarnishing. Waters that contain chlorine, salts, or harsh chemicals will affect the look of your sterling silver. We encourage our customers to remove your sterling silver before showering.
How long does 925 silver last?
If wore all the time, On average, sterling silver rings last between 20-30 years, if well maintained, but If only worn occasionally and properly stored they will last forever.
How do you keep 925 sterling silver from tarnishing?
Keep in a cool, dark place: as mentioned earlier, sunlight, heat and moisture accelerate tarnishing. Be sure to keep your silver in a cool, dark place. Store pieces individually: storing your pieces separately prevents any chance of jewelry scratching or tangling with each other.
Does 925 silver rust in water?
The water can oxidise the silver, meaning it is likely to tarnish and will therefore start to darken. There’s also the risk of dropping or losing your jewellery, so we would recommend taking off your sterling silver jewellery before showering.
What should I look for when buying sterling silver?
Inspect pieces for quality construction. Test all clasps to be sure that they’re secure, but not difficult to open. Lay chains flat to check for any kinks or bends in the metal. And make sure earring posts are straight and not easily bent. New sterling silver jewelry should be shiny and show no signs of tarnish.
How long does it take for sterling silver to tarnish?
Sterling silver can begin to tarnish in anywhere from 2 months to 3 years, but don’t let that worry you. Tarnish is no big deal and there are simple ways to clean and prevent it.
Can you wear sterling silver all the time?
Wear It Regularly If you want to keep your sterling silver jewelry looking its best, the most effective way to do it is to take it out and wear it all the time. As long as you wipe it down when you’re done wearing it, it should look like new at all times and last forever.
Does sterling silver turn green when wet?
Moisture in the air or on the skin can react with the copper present in all Sterling Silver jewelry, causing a green discoloration.
How can I tell if my 925 silver is real?
Look for a Stamp/ Hallmark Look for a stamp with the symbols “Ster,” “925” or “Sterling Silver.” The 925 hallmark is the most crucial tip to determine if any piece you wish to buy is made of genuine sterling silver.
Does 925 sterling silver tarnish in water?
While water won’t ruin your sterling silver, it may speed up the tarnishing process, so it’s best to take jewelry off before you shower, wash your hands, or do the dishes.
Does real silver turn black?
Silver becomes black because of hydrogen sulfide (sulfur), a substance that occurs in the air. When silver comes into contact with it, a chemical reaction takes place and a black layer is formed. Besides that, the natural oils that your skin produces can also react to your silver jewelry.
How do you clean 925 sterling silver?
Clean Sterling Silver with Baking Soda Mix two parts baking soda to one part water to make a paste, then gently rub the mixture onto the jewelry. Let the paste dry completely to remove the tarnish. Rinse and dry with a soft cloth or microfiber towel. You can also follow a similar method using cornstarch.
Can you sleep with sterling silver necklace?
Can You Sleep With a Silver Necklace on? As with gold, if you are not bothered with something on your neck, then feel free to wear to sleep with a silver necklace. If your piece is fragile, you should consider removing it before you sleep. And, choose sterling silver to avoid any potential allergic reactions.
