Silver is a precious metal valued for centuries for its beauty and versatility. If you've ever explored the world of silver jewelry, you've probably come across numbers like 925, 950, and 1000 associated with these pieces. But what do they really mean?
925 Silver
When you see "925" on silver jewelry, it indicates that the alloy is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This mixture is commonly called sterling silver. Why this specific percentage? Pure silver is relatively soft, so adding other metals makes it harder and more suitable for jewelry making.
950 Silver
The “950” indicates an alloy even purer than sterling silver. In this case, the jewelry is made of 95% pure silver and 5% other metals. This higher proportion of pure silver gives the jewelry exceptional shine and increased resistance to oxidation.
Pure Silver (1000)
When a piece of jewelry is marked "1000", it means it is made from 100% pure silver. However, pure silver in its natural state is extremely soft, making it impractical for jewelry. Therefore, most silver jewelry is made with alloys containing a small amount of other metals, even though they are close to pure silver.
How to choose ?
The choice between 925, 950 and 1000 depends on your personal preferences and the intended use of the jewelry. If you're looking for a balance between durability and shine, sterling silver (925) is a great choice.
In summary, these numbers are not just arbitrary markings, but valuable indications of the purity of the silver in your jewelry. Now that you are armed with this knowledge, you can make an informed choice and find the perfect silver jewelry that matches your style and preferences.
