Did you ever wonder what

is meant by the term

Sterling Silver

The word "Sterling” is used to describe a specific “grade” of silver. It’s thought that the term emerged in England as early as the 13th century, and the reference is likely related to the term “Pound Sterling.”

Sterling Silver is a guarantee to the public that the metal bearing these words contain a minimum of 92.5% pure, or fine silver. (Some sterling silver can also be marked simply as “sterling” or with the numbers 925.)

Like gold, fine silver is soft. For use in the jewelry industry, silver is “mixed” or alloyed with other metals in order to achieve a stronger and more durable product. Most often silver is alloyed with copper – so, consumers commonly assume that the sterling silver they are wearing is 92.5% silver, and 7.5% copper. (By the way it’s the copper in the sterling that is the cause of most of the tarnish, not the silver.)

Over the years metals other than copper have been used as an alloy to achieve sterling quality. Today the term “Argentium Silver™” is becoming more and more popular. Argentium™ is claimed to be nearly “tarnish free.” Instead of mixing copper with silver to produce sterling, the metal Germanium is used in its place. As germanium is resistant to tarnish it is felt that Argentium Sterling Silver™ will avoid what some people consider sterling’s most common draw back – the necessity to clean it regularly.

Over time sterling jewelry will achieve a “patina.” Many silver lovers appreciate the patina and feel the darker areas add character and beauty to the piece. Others like to keep their sterling polished to the bright luster that silver is capable of achieving. Either way, and what ever your personal preference, Sterling Silver can add variety and value to your jewelry collection.

© Rocks to Gems