If you've ever purchased or come across silver jewelry, you may have noticed a tiny stamp that reads '925' on it. This mysterious number holds a significant meaning that can help you determine the authenticity and quality of the piece.
What is 925 Sterling Silver?
The number '925' is a common hallmark found on silver jewelry, especially sterling silver. It refers to the purity of the metal and indicates that the piece is made of 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% typically being copper or other metals.
Why are There Other Metals in 925 Silver?
Silver was highly valued for its beauty and versatility. However, pure silver is too soft to be used in jewelry as it is prone to scratches and dents. To overcome this issue, jewelers started adding other metals to silver to enhance its strength and durability.
Why is The Number '925' Used to Indicate Sterling Silver?
In the early 20th century, the United States passed the Federal Trade Commission Act, which required jewelry manufacturers to disclose the metal content of their products. To comply with this regulation, jewelers began stamping their silver pieces with the '925' mark to indicate the silver's purity level.
Does 925 Sterling Silver Tarnish?
925 sterling silver may tarnish over time due to various factors. However, with proper care and storage, you can slow down the tarnishing process and keep your sterling silver jewelry looking beautiful.
Several factors can contribute to the tarnishing of sterling silver:
- Air Exposure: Sterling silver is prone to tarnishing when exposed to air, especially in humid environments or areas with high levels of pollutants.
- Chemicals: Contact with chemicals such as perfume, lotion, and cleaning products can accelerate the tarnishing process.
- Body Chemistry: The acidity levels in an individual's skin can affect how quickly sterling silver tarnishes.
Things to Consider When Buying 925 Sterling Silver Jewelry
When purchasing silver jewelry, it's essential to look for the '925' stamp to ensure that you're buying genuine sterling silver. This stamp serves as a guarantee of quality and authenticity. However, it's worth noting that not all silver jewelry may have this stamp, especially if it's an antique piece or handmade by an individual artisan.
While the '925' stamp is widely recognized, it's important to be cautious of counterfeit jewelry. Some dishonest sellers may try to pass off lower-quality silver or even non-silver metals as sterling silver. We always provide our customers with genuine 925 sterling silver jewelry, you can buy with confidence.
