Sterling silver tends to be the most reflective metal. While nickel silver is shiny, it does not have the same light reflective quality as sterling silver, particularly if the silver plating is wearing down and the base metal is showing through.

Is there nickel in sterling silver?

Silver jewellery Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver alloyed with copper. In some cases of sterling silver, a small percentage of other metals may be in the mix so traces of nickel may be present. Silver-plated jewellery is a base metal (and may contain nickel) that has been plated with a fine layer of silver alloy.

What makes a nickel look like sterling silver?

This indicates that the metal is not sterling silver, but is nickel that has been plated with silver. Wear and tear of the metal will cause the base metals–nickel and other metals such as copper and zinc–to appear through the silver plating.

What do you look for on sterling silver?

The quickest way to identify sterling silver is to look for a mark or stamp, called the “hallmark.” Certified sterling silver will be stamped or marked with the word “sterling” or “925.” You may often come across hallmarks labeled with “STG” “SS” or “STER,” which are all authentic notations of sterling silver.

What makes sterling silver different from other metals?

Currently sterling silver is labeled as a mix of 92.5 percent pure silver and 7.5 percent copper. Because pure silver itself is very soft, it is not functional; therefore, it is mixed with other metals to make it sturdier for everyday use.

What’s the difference between sterling silver and 925 silver?

Sterling silver and 925 silver are both made from the same silver alloy blend, with the only key difference being the name. Durability and Purity of Sterling Silver The reason sterling silver requires the mixture of other metals is because naturally, pure silver is soft.