If you've shopped for jewelry online, you've almost certainly seen "925" stamped somewhere in a product description. It's one of the most common markings in fine jewelry, and it actually tells you something specific about what you're buying.
What does 925 mean on jewelry?
925 refers to the purity of sterling silver: the piece is 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% made up of other metals, usually copper, added for strength. Pure silver on its own is too soft to hold its shape in everyday jewelry.
Is 925 silver the same as "real" silver?
Yes. 925 sterling silver is genuine silver, not a coating or imitation. The 7.5% alloy mix is an industry standard, not a sign of lower quality.
Why isn't jewelry made from 100% pure silver?
Pure (fine) silver is very soft and prone to bending, scratching, and losing its shape. The small percentage of copper or other metal added in sterling silver makes the piece durable enough for daily wear.
Does 925 silver tarnish?
Yes, sterling silver can tarnish over time due to its copper content reacting with air and moisture, though this is normal and doesn't indicate a defect. Regular gentle cleaning keeps it looking bright.
How can you tell if a piece is genuinely 925 silver?
Look for a "925" stamp on the clasp, inside the band, or on the back of a pendant. Reputable sellers list the 925 marking clearly in the product description, and a magnet test can help rule out steel or other non-silver metals, since silver is not magnetic.
Browse our full collection to find genuine 925 sterling silver pieces.
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