How to Tell Real Sterling Silver
Gift shopping for silver jewelry can be confusing. Plenty of pieces look alike, and the label does not always tell you much. Here is how to check what you are buying.
What "sterling silver" means
Sterling silver is 92.5 percent silver. The other 7.5 percent is usually copper, which makes the metal hard enough to hold a shape and stay wearable every day.
Pure silver is too soft for most rings, so sterling is the standard for everyday jewelry.
Look for the stamp
Most genuine sterling pieces carry a mark on the inside of the band or the back of a pendant. Look for:
"925"
"Sterling" or "STG"
"S925"
A stamp is a good sign, not proof on its own. Buy from a seller who lists the metal in the product details, and read them before you order.
Check the weight and finish
Sterling feels solid for its size. Light, hollow-feeling pieces are often plated base metal.
Sterling also tarnishes over time. It darkens slightly as it reacts with air and moisture. Tarnish is normal for real silver, so do not treat a dull ring as a fake.
Know what a magnet tells you
Silver is not magnetic, so a magnet will not pull on a sterling ring. But many non-silver metals are not magnetic either. A magnet can rule out some fakes, but it cannot confirm real silver by itself.
Care for your sterling silver
Store rings in a dry pouch or box, away from humid bathrooms.
Remove silver before swimming, showering or using cleaning products.
Polish gently with a soft cloth when the shine fades.
Shop sterling silver rings at Solid Shopping
Browse two of our sterling silver rings and see what fits your style: the Irish Claddagh Sterling Silver Ring W/ Mother of Pearl and the Rainbow Moonstone Sterling Silver Ring. Each product page lists the ring sizes and describes the metal and stone.
Shipping is free on all store items for domestic and international orders, with no minimum. Returns are accepted within 14 days for defective, undamaged and unworn items, sent back with their packaging. The customer pays return shipping.
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