Sterling silver is a metal alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. Pure silver is too soft for most jewelry applications, so the copper addition provides the hardness and durability needed for everyday wear. Sterling silver is stamped 925, .925, or Ster to indicate its composition.
Sterling silver is widely used in rings, chains, bracelets, earrings, and pendants. It has a bright, white-metal appearance and takes a high polish. Over time, the copper in the alloy reacts with oxygen and sulfur compounds in the air, causing the characteristic darkening known as tarnish. Tarnish is surface-level and does not damage the metal – it can be removed with silver polish or a professional cleaning.
From a repair standpoint, sterling silver solders readily and is straightforward to resize, relink, or rebuild. It is softer than gold, so prongs and clasps on silver pieces tend to wear faster and benefit from more frequent inspection. Rhodium plating is sometimes applied to sterling silver pieces to slow tarnish and add surface hardness.