Introduction
Many people like silver jewellery because it’s elegant, versatile, and intrinsically valuable. However, did you know that there are multiple types of silver? There is pure silver and also mixed alloys and each type of silver has its own unique durability, shine, and price points.
Understanding silver can help you make informed buying decisions as a consumer and maximize the quality you expect. If you’re shopping online, check product details before you order.
Types of Silver
1. Pure Silver
Fine silver is the closest type of silver to pure silver. It has a gorgeous natural shine and is hypoallergenic, great for sensitive skin. However, because it is softer than other types of silver, it is better for pendants, earrings and collectables than rings or bracelets, which are used for daily wear.
How to identify silver purity: Look for the “999” hallmark stamp to guarantee that it is fine silver with little other alloy.
2. Sterling Silver (925 Silver)
Sterling silver is the most common choice for jewellery because it combines beauty with durability. The small percentage of alloy makes it harder and more resistant to scratches.
If you’re wondering which is better, silver or sterling silver, the answer depends on your needs. Pure silver is softer and more decorative, while sterling silver is stronger for daily wear.
Silver quality check: Sterling silver usually carries a “925” hallmark, indicating its composition.
3. Italian Silver
Italian silver isn’t a different metal—it’s usually sterling (925) crafted in Italy, celebrated for its finishing and design. Pieces often carry Italian hallmarks (maker ID with the star and province code), signalling origin and craftsmanship quality.
Italian silver is ideal for those who appreciate statement jewellery that embodies artistry, especially in silver earrings for women.
4. Oxidised Silver
Oxidised silver isn’t a separate alloy but a surface treatment that darkens the metal using a chemical process. This creates a vintage, antique look that’s popular in Indian and bohemian-style jewellery.
Oxidised pieces require minimal polishing and are often used for chunky bangles, statement earrings, and ethnic designs.
5. Silver Alloys
Silver alloy refers to any mix of silver with other metals like copper, zinc, or nickel to improve hardness, durability, or colour. Many types of silver in India, such as tribal silver or regional handmade silver, use alloys tailored for local styles.
When buying silver alloy jewellery, check for hallmarking or a seller’s guarantee to ensure fair silver composition.
6. Nickel Silver (German Silver)
Nickel silver does not contain silver at all. Nickel silver metal gets its name from its appearance—more like silver. While it is durable and inexpensive, nickel silver is not considered a precious metal, and may create an allergic reaction for some people who are allergic to nickel. Nickel silver is commonly used in costume jewellery or for decorative applications.
7. Argentium® Silver
Argentium® is a modern, tarnish-resistant form of sterling made by adding a little germanium to the alloy (typically 935 or 960 fineness). It’s brighter/whiter than standard 925, needs less polishing, and is great for everyday jewellery.
Look for: “935” or “960” plus Argentium® branding or the maker’s mark.
8. Britannia Silver (958)
Britannia silver is 95.8% pure, higher than sterling, giving a rich, slightly softer look and feel. It’s a bit softer than 925, so less common for heavy-wear pieces.
Mark: “958” (UK items may also show the Britannia figure).
9. Coin Silver (900)
Coin silver is roughly 90% silver (historically a U.S. standard), found mostly in antique flatware and jewellery. It’s valued for heritage and collectability rather than everyday durability.
Mark: Older pieces may be stamped “COIN.”
10. Silver-Plated (EPNS)
Silver-plated items are base metal (often nickel silver or brass) coated with a thin silver layer by electroplating, often marked EP/EPNS. They offer the silver look at a lower price, but the plating can wear through over time and they don’t carry the value of solid sterling.
How to Identify the Type of Silver
- Hallmarks: Look for stamps like 999 (fine), 958 (Britannia), 935/960 (Argentium®), 925 (sterling), or 900 (coin silver). BIS hallmarking on silver may include the BIS logo, purity (e.g., 925), the assaying centre, and the jeweller’s ID.
- Magnet Test: Screening only. Sterling isn’t magnetic, but clasps/springs can show slight attraction. A strong pull usually indicates base metal.
- Rub Test: Can darken due to oxidation, but it’s not definitive and may mar finishes; prefer hallmarks or a professional test.
- Professional Silver Quality Check: Jewellers can test silver composition using acid or electronic testing.
Pros and Cons of Different Types of Silver
| Type | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Pure Silver | Hypoallergenic, beautiful shine | Soft, scratches easily |
| Sterling Silver | Durable, widely available | Needs occasional polishing |
| Italian Silver | Excellent craftsmanship | Higher price |
| Oxidised Silver | Unique antique look | Less formal appeal |
| Argentium® Silver (935/960) | Brighter/whiter; better tarnish resistance; low maintenance | Slight premium; branded alloy availability varies |
| Britannia Silver (958) | Higher purity; rich colour | Softer than 925; less common for heavy-wear pieces |
| Coin Silver (900) | Heritage/collectible appeal | Lower purity than 925; mostly antique |
| Nickel Silver (no silver) | Affordable; durable for costume pieces | No real silver; may cause nickel allergies |
| Silver-Plated (EP/EPNS) | Low-cost silver look | Thin plating can wear off; limited resale value |
Conclusion
Whether you’re drawn to the purity of fine silver, the durability of sterling, or the artistry of Italian craftsmanship, knowing the different types of silver ensures you choose jewellery that’s worth your money. Always perform a silver quality check before buying, and invest in trusted sellers for genuine pieces. Always check size before buying jewellery.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How many types of silver are there?
There are many, but common ones include pure silver, sterling silver (925), coin silver, Britannia silver,
Argentium silver, nickel silver, and oxidised silver.
2. Which type of silver is the best?
For jewellery, sterling silver (925) is the most popular due to durability and shine.
3. Which is better, 925 or 950 silver?
950 silver is purer but softer; 925 is slightly less pure but more durable for daily wear.
4. Is 925 a type of silver?
Yes, it’s sterling silver with 92.5% pure silver.
5. Types of silver in India
Sterling (925), Fine (999), Britannia (958) in some pieces, Argentium® (select makers), Hill Tribe (artisan
imports), Silver-plated (EPNS), and Nickel Silver (costume) are common in India.
6. Types of silver for jewellery
Sterling silver, fine silver, Italian silver, and oxidised silver.
7. What is the difference between silver and sterling silver?
Pure silver is 99.9% silver; sterling silver is 92.5% silver mixed with other metals for strength.
8. Types of silver colour
Bright white, antique (oxidised), matte, and darkened finishes.
9. Is German silver real silver? No, it’s an alloy of copper, zinc, and nickel, with no actual silver content.
10. German silver means
A base metal alloy that looks like silver but contains no real silver.
