What Is 925 Sterling Silver? A Complete Guide Before You Buy

What Does 925 Sterling Silver Mean?

925 sterling silver — also called sterling silver — means the metal alloy is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This composition is the international quality standard for silver jewelry, giving the piece durability without compromising the metal's characteristic shine.

Why Isn't 100% Pure Silver Used in Jewelry?

Pure silver (999) is too soft for everyday wear — it deforms easily and can't withstand daily use. Adding copper gives the piece the strength needed for rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets that go through real life with you.

How to Identify Genuine 925 Sterling Silver

There are a few reliable ways to verify authenticity:

  • Hallmark or assay stamp — genuine sterling silver handmade in Portugal is certified by the Portuguese Assay Office (Contrastaria Portuguesa).
  • Magnet test — silver is not magnetic; if a piece is attracted to a magnet, it isn't genuine silver.

925 Sterling Silver vs. Silver-Plated: What's the Difference?

It's important to distinguish between solid 925 silver and silver-plated pieces:

  • Solid 925 silver — the sterling silver alloy runs through the entire piece. It lasts for years with proper care.
  • Silver-plated — a thin layer of silver coats a base metal (such as brass or zinc). The plating wears off over time.

At MÖHYA Signature, every piece is handmade in Portugal in solid 925 sterling silver, with an optional 18k gold-plated finish — never over a base metal.

Does 925 Sterling Silver Cause Allergies?

Sterling silver is generally hypoallergenic. That said, people with nickel sensitivity should check the alloy composition, since some brands substitute copper with nickel. At MÖHYA, we use exclusively nickel-free alloys, safe for prolonged wear.

How to Care for 925 Sterling Silver Jewelry

With proper care, 925 sterling silver keeps its shine for decades:

  • Store pieces somewhere dry, ideally in a fabric pouch or individual box.
  • Avoid contact with perfume, chlorine and cleaning products.
  • Clean regularly with a microfibre or silver-specific polishing cloth.
  • Remove jewelry before sleeping, swimming or exercising.

Is 925 Sterling Silver Worth the Investment?

Yes — 925 sterling silver offers one of the best value propositions in fine jewelry. It's a noble material, rich in history and intrinsic value, that suits any style. When you buy a sterling silver piece from a handmade designer brand like MÖHYA Signature, you're investing in jewelry that outlasts trends and passes between generations.

Explore our collection and discover 925 sterling silver jewelry handmade in Portugal.

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