Sterling Silver
925‰, sterling standard
Classic silver-white, the definitive silver appearance; very slightly warmer than fine silver due to copper content
Composition
92.5% silver, 7.5% copper, the global standard for silver jewellery
Physical properties
| Density | 10.36 g/cm³ | Weight per unit volume. Platinum is ~40% heavier than 18k gold at equal size |
|---|---|---|
| Melting range | 893–940 °C | Working temperature for alloys. Pure metals have a sharp melting point |
| Vickers hardness | 90 HV | Higher HV = greater scratch resistance in service |
| Mohs hardness | 2.7 | Approximate equivalent for comparative reference |
| Tensile strength | 295 MPa | Resistance to breaking under tension, relevant for prongs and fine settings |
| Purity | 92.50% | Fine metal content by mass |
| Tarnish resistance | Moderate | Surface oxidation / sulphidation under typical wear conditions |
| Workability | Excellent | Ease of forming, soldering, and fabricating under standard jewellery workshop conditions |
| Hypoallergenic | Hypoallergenic | Likelihood of triggering skin reactions under normal wear |
Common uses
All forms of jewellery, flatware, tableware, decorative objects, watch components, findings, chain
Hallmarking & identification
Stamped 925 worldwide. 'Sterling' or 'Ster' mark in Anglo-American markets. The universal standard for silver jewellery; any other purity must be explicitly stated.
Tarnishes over time due to reaction with sulphur in the air. Polish regularly with a silver cloth. Store in anti-tarnish bags. Avoid contact with rubber, chlorine, and sulphur-containing products (eggs, wool).
Market & pricing
Industry-standard silver pricing. Significant premium over base silver spot due to processing. Most accessible fine metal for independent jewellers.