Everything You Need to Know About 925 Sterling Silver: Quality, Care & Common Questions
When shopping for genuine sterling silver jewelry—whether silver earrings, silver rings, bracelets, or classic hoop earrings—you’ll often see the mark “925” stamped on each piece. But what does that really mean? And how does 925 silver hold up over time?
In this guide, we’re answering the most common questions about sterling silver jewelry, including tarnishing, allergies, quality, and care. If you love precious metal pieces that offer the beauty of 14k gold without the high price, then this is your go-to resource before you shop your next collection of stunning sterling silver pieces.
Does 925 Sterling Silver Tarnish?
Short answer: Yes, but it’s completely normal.
925 sterling silver is a silver alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals—usually copper. Because copper is reactive, your jewelry can develop a light, dark, or cloudy layer over time.
This isn’t damage—it’s a natural reaction and can be easily cleaned with a soft cloth or a polishing cloth. Regular cleaning and proper storage help keep your jewellery shiny and bright for years.
Is 925 Sterling Silver Good Quality?
Absolutely. In fact, sterling silver is considered one of the best-quality metals for everyday jewellery. It offers:
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The shine and beauty of pure silver
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Durability for daily wear
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A lower price than 14k gold
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Easy maintenance with a polishing cloth
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A timeless look that pairs well with all styles
Many luxury designers choose sterling silver pieces because of their strength, longevity, and elegant finish.
Can 925 Sterling Silver Get Wet?
Yes—sterling silver CAN get wet, but with a little caution.
Water itself won’t ruin your 925 silver, but repeated exposure—especially to chlorinated pools, saltwater, or harsh shampoos—can speed up tarnishing.
For best results:
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Remove jewelry before swimming or showering
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Wipe pieces dry with a soft cloth if they get wet
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Store in airtight bags to reduce oxidation
With proper care, your sterling silver jewelry will stay beautiful for generations.
Does 925 sterling silver turn skin green?
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925 sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper.
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Copper is reactive and can oxidize when it touches moisture, sweat, or lotion.
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This reaction can leave a greenish tint on your skin, especially if the jewelry is worn frequently or exposed to water and sweat.
How to Prevent It
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Keep jewelry dry – remove silver rings, bracelets, or earrings before swimming, showering, or washing hands.
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Clean regularly – wipe with a soft cloth or polishing cloth to remove oils and moisture.
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Store properly – airtight bags or jewelry boxes reduce oxidation.
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Apply a protective coating – some people use a thin layer of clear nail polish on the inner side of rings to protect skin from copper.
Why We Love 925 Sterling Silver
From classic hoop earrings to statement bracelets, there’s a reason 925 sterling silver is one of the most loved precious metals in the world. Its durability, affordability, and timeless shine make it a perfect choice for everyday wear, meaningful gifts, or adding new favorites to your jewelry menu or collection.
Explore our curated selection of sterling silver pieces and find something special to elevate your style—today and always.
