The story of silver mining began about 5,000 years ago. Silver was first mined around 3,000 BCE in Anatolia, now located in modern-day Turkey.  As one of the seven metals of antiquity, silver has had an enduring role in most human cultures.

 

Silver has long been valued as a precious metal and is used in a variety of ways such as solar panels, water filtration, jewelry, ornaments, high-value tableware and utensils, in electrical contacts and conductors, and many others. Its compounds are also used in photographic and X-ray film.

But what is 925 silver?

You’ve probably heard of this term or even seen the number 925 in silver jewelry. Unlike pure silver, which contains 99.9% elemental silver, sterling silver contains one or more additional metals that add strength and durability to the otherwise delicate material. The 925 stamp on sterling silver represents the amount of silver it has in its composition (92.5%). The remaining 7.5% of metal in 925 silver is most commonly copper, however, sometimes silversmiths opt to add alloys such as zinc or nickel instead.

Sterling silver has a bright, white appearance that makes it a popular choice for jewelry, especially for pieces that are worn frequently.

One of the advantages of 925 silver is that it is a versatile metal that can be molded into a variety of shapes and styles. It can also be plated with other metals, such as gold or rhodium, to enhance its appearance and durability.

Another benefit of 925 silver is that it is hypoallergenic, making it a good choice for people with sensitive skin. It is also relatively low-maintenance and can be easily cleaned with a soft cloth or specialized silver polishing cloth.

What is the difference between 925 silver and 999 silver?

925 sterling silver, also known as just sterling silver, is an alloy that consists of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper). This type of silver is the most commonly used in jewelry making and has been the standard for silver jewelry and silverware for centuries.

999 sterling silver, on the other hand, is a higher purity form of silver that consists of 99.9% silver. This type of silver is less common in jewelry making as it is softer and more susceptible to damage. However, it is often used in silver bullion and other investments.

What is the difference between 925 silver and sterling silver?

The terms "925 silver" and "sterling silver" refer to the same type of silver alloy. 925 silver is an alloy that consists of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper), and "sterling silver" is a synonym for the same composition. The use of other metals in the alloy makes the silver stronger and more durable.

If you are interested in expanding your jewelry collection, Dicci has a variety of silver jewelry that you are going to love, such as necklaces, bracelets, rings and earrings.

   

Raquel Couto