Silver Purity & Hallmarks

In the USA the minimum purity for a metal to be called “Silver” is 90% (thus frequently stamped 900). Silver jewelry and silverware are traditionally made from sterling silver (standard silver), an alloy of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper that is typically stamped with the hallmark 925. Sterling silver jewelry is often plated with a thin coat of .999 fine silver to give the item a shiny finish. This process is called “flashing”. Silver jewelry can also be plated with rhodium (for a bright, shiny look) or gold.