What Is 925 Sterling Silver? Meaning, Stamp and Care

Seen 925 or S925 on a jewelry listing and wondered what it means? It is the quickest way to know you are buying real sterling silver. This guide explains what it stands for, how it differs from silver-tone and plated pieces, and how to care for sterling silver so it keeps its shine for years of wear.

What does 925 sterling silver mean?

Sterling silver is an alloy made of 92.5 percent pure silver and 7.5 percent other metals, most often copper. The 925 comes from that 92.5 percent. Pure silver is very soft, so the other metals add the strength that jewelry needs for daily wear. That is why sterling silver is the classic choice for rings, earrings and everyday pieces.

What does the S925 stamp mean?

The stamp tells you the piece is sterling silver. You will usually find 925 or S925 on the post of an earring, on the clasp, or on the inside of a band. Both marks mean the same thing.

Sterling silver, silver-tone and silver plated: what is the difference?

• Sterling silver: the piece is made of the 925 alloy.
• Silver-tone: describes the color only. It does not tell you which metal the piece is made of.
• Silver plated: a thin layer of silver over another metal.
• Gold plated over sterling silver: a layer of gold over a sterling silver base, for example 18K gold-plated 925 sterling silver. You get the warm look of gold on a silver base.

Quick tip when you shop: look for the metal name. A color word alone does not tell you the material.

Does sterling silver tarnish?

Silver reacts with air and moisture and can darken over time. It is completely normal, and the fix is easy: a soft silver cloth brings the shine back in seconds.

How to keep sterling silver shining

1. Take it off before showering, swimming, exercising or cleaning.
2. Keep it away from perfume, lotion, chlorine and harsh chemicals.
3. Wipe it with a soft, dry cloth after wearing it.
4. Store it dry, in a pouch or a jewelry box, away from other pieces so they do not scratch each other.
5. Polish it with a soft silver cloth when it looks dull.

For gold-plated pieces, the same habits help. Our care guide for gold-plated jewelry has the full routine.

925 sterling silver at MARO

Some of our pieces list sterling silver as the material, such as the Evil Eye Silver Ring, the Petit Heart Silver Bracelet, the Mini Shell Earring and the Gante Silver Hoop. Others combine 925 sterling silver with 18K gold plating, like the Point Studs Gold. The material is listed on each product page, so you always know what you are getting.

Frequently asked questions

Is 925 silver real silver?

Yes. It is an alloy that is 92.5 percent silver.

Can I wear sterling silver every day?

Yes. Keep it dry and away from chemicals, and wipe it after wearing, and it is ready for daily wear.

Why did my silver turn dark?

Tarnish forms when silver reacts with air and moisture. A soft silver cloth removes light tarnish.

Keep reading

Learn how to read other listings in gold plated vs gold filled vs vermeil, or shop our rings and earrings.