What does 925 mean on jewellery?
The number 925 tells you the silver content in parts per thousand: 925 out of 1000 parts are silver, which is 92.5%. The remaining 7.5% is usually copper, added to make the metal harder. This mix is called sterling silver, and it is the international standard for silver jewellery.
925 vs pure silver vs silver-plated
| 925 sterling silver | Fine / pure silver (999) | Silver-plated | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Silver content | 92.5% | 99.9% | Thin silver layer over another metal |
| Strength | Strong enough for rings, chains, settings | Very soft; bends easily | Depends on base metal |
| Tarnish | Yes, slowly | Less, but scratches easily | Plating can wear through |
| Typical use | Everyday jewellery | Coins, bars, some traditional pieces | Budget jewellery |
Why does sterling silver tarnish?
Silver reacts with sulphur compounds in the air and in some foods, cosmetics and rubber, forming a dark layer of silver sulphide. Humidity speeds this up. Tarnish on sterling silver is surface-level and can usually be polished away, unlike worn plating.
Rhodium-plated and gold-plated sterling silver
Many modern pieces add a plating over sterling silver: rhodium for a bright white shine and better tarnish resistance, or gold for a warm colour (gold-plated sterling silver is sometimes called vermeil when the layer is thicker). Read what rhodium plating means and gold-plated vs vermeil vs gold-filled.
How to check if silver is 925
- Look for the stamp: "925", "S925" or "Sterling" is usually stamped inside rings, on clasps or on tags.
- Buy from sellers who state the metal: the listing should say sterling silver.
- Ask for a test: a jeweller can test silver content if you are unsure.
A stamp is a good sign but not an absolute guarantee, which is why buying from a trusted seller matters.
Sterling silver in Indian jewellery
Silver has a long tradition in India, from anklets and toe rings to temple and tribal designs. Modern sterling silver jewellery is often plated with rhodium for a bright finish or with gold for a warm tone, giving the strength of sterling with a longer-lasting shine.
Storage tips specific to silver
- Store in anti-tarnish pouches or airtight zip bags.
- Keep silver away from rubber bands, wool and newspaper, which contain sulphur.
- Separate silver from gold-tone pieces to avoid scratches.
- Wear silver often; skin contact and regular wiping keep tarnish from building up.
Read more in how to store jewellery.
How to care for silver jewellery
- Wipe after wear with a soft cloth.
- Store in a sealed pouch or zip bag; air is the enemy.
- Keep away from perfume, rubber bands and sulphur-rich products.
- For unplated sterling silver, a silver polishing cloth removes tarnish.
- For plated silver, avoid polishing cloths and chemical dips that can remove the plating.
Miayaa uses brass, sterling silver and alloy bases, depending on the design; each product page lists the details.
