Silver Plated vs 925 Sterling Silver: What Is The Difference?

925 Sterling Silver, commonly known as Sterling Silver contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other alloys, usually copper or zinc. 925 Sterling Silver can be identified quickly due to the unique “925” stamp its pieces carry to show their authenticity.

While the 92.5% being Silver will not tarnish, the remaining alloy can be susceptible to some tarnishing over time. This tarnishing can be accelerated if the jewellery is exposed to humidity, chlorine, make-up, cleaning product or even excessive sweat.

While it is not possible to completely avoid tarnishing, there are some actions which can be taken to slow the process. These are:

• Wear your sterling silver more. Regular wear actually prevents tarnishing.
• Don’t wear your sterling silver in a chlorine pool.
• Don’t leave your sterling silver jewellery on the bathroom sink. It will likely get coated in toothpaste, makeup, or hairspray. 
• Wipe your jewelry with a polishing cloth before you put it away. 
• Store your jewellery in a jewellery box to protect it when it is not being worn.

To keep your jewellery in the best possible condition cleaning should be performed regularly. You can wipe your jewellery with silver polish and a polishing cloth or gently brush it with warm water, mild soap and a soft toothbrush. A toothbrush with soap is a good option for occasional deep cleanings, but wiping with a polishing cloth is best for regular cleanings because it’s gentler.

1. Durability: Sterling Silver is strong and resistant to scratches and wear. This durability makes it a perfect choice for jewellery pieces that are worn frequently, such as a Sterling Silver photo necklace.
2. Hypoallergenic: Sterling Silver is generally safe for those with sensitive skin, as it contains minimal amounts of other metals.
3. Aesthetic Appeal: Sterling Silver has a beautiful, lustrous finish that doesn’t tarnish easily. With proper care, it can maintain its shine for a long time.

Silver plated jewellery consists of a base metal, such as copper or brass, that is coated with a thin layer of silver. The silver layer is typically applied through an electroplating process, which binds the silver to the base metal.

1. Affordability: Silver plated jewellery is cheaper than Sterling Silver, making it an attractive option for those on a budget.
2. Appearance: At first glance, silver plated jewelry can look very similar to Sterling Silver, offering a similar aesthetic at a lower price.

1. Durability: The thin layer of silver can wear off over time, especially with frequent use. Once the silver layer wears away, the base metal becomes exposed, which can lead to tarnishing and skin reactions.
2. Maintenance: Silver plated jewellery requires more frequent maintenance to keep its appearance.

• Avoid wearing it in water or exposing it to harsh chemicals.
• Store it separately to prevent scratches and damage.
• Clean it gently with a soft cloth to maintain its appearance.