Is Sterling Silver the Same as Pure Silver?

Sterling silver and pure silver are two terms that are often used interchangeably, but they are actually quite different. Sterling silver is an alloy of silver and other metals, while pure silver is just silver.

Sterling silver is an alloy of silver and other metals, usually copper. It is the most popular type of silver used in jewelry and other decorative items. Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This alloy is much harder and more durable than pure silver, making it ideal for jewelry and other items that need to be durable.

Pure silver, on the other hand, is just silver. It is 99.9% silver and 0.1% other metals. Pure silver is much softer than sterling silver and is not as durable. It is not suitable for jewelry or other items that need to be durable. Pure silver is often used in coins, silverware, and other items that do not need to be durable.

So, while sterling silver and pure silver are both made of silver, they are not the same. Sterling silver is an alloy of silver and other metals, while pure silver is just silver. Sterling silver is much harder and more durable than pure silver, making it ideal for jewelry and other items that need to be durable. Pure silver is much softer and not as durable, making it better suited for coins, silverware, and other items that do not need to be durable.