What is the standard of pure silver?

What types of silver are there and how to distinguish a fake from the original?

Today we'll talk about silver. Do you know what types of silver there are? How is it labeled? How to distinguish counterfeit silver from the original using simple and understandable methods. You will also learn many interesting facts.

Jewelry silver samples in Russia: current information

In order to distinguish a counterfeit silver product from the original, the state actually introduced a unified test system. It has been working since 1927 in Russia.

According to metric data, the preciousness of a silver alloy is determined by its silver content per 1000 g of total mass.

For example, 925 fineness of a product means that 1000 g (1 kg) of such an alloy contains 925 g of silver and 75 g of other impurities.

Looking ahead a little, I would like to say that the highest standard of silver is considered 960. Many will ask, why not 1000? The thing is that pure silver is very soft. Therefore, jewelers additionally strengthen it with other types of metals (ligatures). Thanks to such metals, silver becomes more durable.

How many samples does silver have: studying the details

Sample details:

• 720 – in the jewelry field, this sample is used mainly for the production of clasps for jewelry;
• 800 – this sample is used for the production of tableware. These can be salt shakers, cutlery, oil dishes and other utensils. Of course, products with such a mark require regular maintenance. Because objects are covered with an oxide film. What other feature of this silver sample? There is a slight yellow tint to the metal.
• 875 - belongs to the category of low-grade alloy. Although this is not the best standard of silver, it is used to make shot glasses, ashtrays, other interior decorations, as well as “economy class” jewelry.
• 830 – practically no different from the previous sample. Contains 83% silver. Jewelry is made from this alloy;
• 916 – sets and enamel-coated jewelry are made from this alloy;

925 sterling silver is the most common in jewelry. Why? Due to the low content of other metal impurities, this silver has a pure silver luster. And thanks to its soft consistency, you can make amazing jewelry, despite the fact that this alloy holds its shape well;

• 960 is the highest standard of silver. Visually similar to 925. However, it does not oxidize and does not turn black;
• 999 sterling silver is pure, without additives. It is soft and is not used for jewelry. It bends easily and can be broken. This metal is susceptible to rapid oxidation. Typically, the alloy of this standard is used to produce bars or collectible coins;
• 84 is an ancient silver standard that was used before 1927 in Russia. A variety of household items (boxes, cigarette cases, trays) were made from this alloy. According to its parameters, this alloy corresponds to 875 standard.

We also suggest that you familiarize yourself with the table of silver samples in more detail.

METRIC TEST	CARAT TEST	SWITCH TEST	LOT SAMPLE
999 sample	24 carats	96 spools	16 lots
970 sample	23.28 carats	93 spool	15.52 lots
960 sample	23 carats	92 spools	15.36 lots
950 sample	22.8 carats	91 spool	15.2 lots
940 sample	22.56 carats	90 spools	15 lots
925 sample	22 carats	88 spools	14.8 lots
916 sample	22 carats	88 spools	14.65 lots
900 sample	21.6 carats	86 spools	14.4 lots
875 sample	21 carat	84 spool	14 lots
830 sample	20 carat	80 spools	13.28 lots
800 sample	19 carat	77 spools	12.8 lots
770 sample	18.5 carats	74 spool	12.32 lots
750 sample	18 carat	72 spools	12 lots
625 sample	15 carat	60 spools	10 lots
600 sample	14.4 carats	58 spools	9.6 lots
500 sample	12 carat	48 spools	8 lots
375 sample	9 carats	36 spools	6 lots

How to identify a fake from the original?

You already know what types of silver there are, now we’ll talk about fakes. If you are completely unfamiliar with this process, then it is better to seek help from a jewelry specialist. Or try checking the authenticity of products at home. But using what methods, read on.

Here are the main methods:

1. Using a magnet. Remember that real silver is not magnetic.
2. This metal heats up very quickly, even from the heat of human hands. The same cannot be said about a fake.
3. Using sulfur ointment. After a few hours, the surface of real metal will turn black.
4. Real silver can be tested with a drop of iodine. If you drop iodine on your jewelry, a dark stain will form on it, which will be difficult to remove later.
5. Chalk check. The safest option. All you have to do is rub the product with chalk. If it darkens, then you have real metal in your hands.

What you need to know about silver hallmarks?

There is no need to talk about where the silver sample is located, since everyone knows this. But we still recommend finding out new information about the stigma of different countries. Each country uses different types of stamps in shape and design. We propose to consider examples of stigma in such strong states as: France, England, Sweden and Russia.

In England, until 1300, the mark was a drawing of the head of a British lion. But starting from 1363, each city had its own brand. From 1784 to 1890, only 5 stamp options began to be used: the state stamp, the workshop stamp, the city stamp and the tax stamp.

In Germany, starting from 1548, the Köhl mark was used on silver products. Later, the company's imprints, an image of a crescent and an imperial crown appeared on the products.

In Russia, the required hallmark for all silver products was 84 hallmark, which today corresponds to 875 hallmark. In modern accounting of precious metals, in addition to the imprint of the hallmark inspection itself , name is mandatory . These are 2 mandatory impressions for products weighing more than 3 grams.

10 interesting facts about silver

1. During the time of ancient Babylon, silver was a sacred material and was revered as an ancient symbol of the Moon.
2. Many people know that silver has antibacterial properties. By the way, many even put a silver spoon in a container of water for cleansing. But at space stations, astronauts drink only purified silver water.
3. The first silver jewelry appeared about 6 thousand years ago, in Egypt.
4. In India, silver is added to food. For example, it is added in the form of silver foil to decorate sweets.
5. Silver is used in Japan in the production of air conditioners. These air conditioners safely purify the air.
6. US housewives use silver coins to prolong the freshness of milk.
7. During ancient battles and military campaigns, Egyptian soldiers applied silver plates to their wounds. And they did this so that no infection could penetrate the blood.
8. Silver was used in the medical field to relieve toothache. To do this, patients from Switzerland placed a silver coin in the oral cavity, and the toothache went away.
9. Quite recently, scientists from the USA have established an interesting connection between silver and the human body. During the experiment, scientists discovered how a coin changes color after contact with the human body. By the way, dark color indicates kidney disease.
10. Scientists from the University of California have discovered new healing properties of this metal.

    It turns out that silver strengthens the nervous system, eliminates headaches and migraine attacks, increases hemoglobin and relieves stress.

Source: https://blog.replicahouse.ru/kakie-byvayut-proby-serebra/

Silver sample: properties of alloys and areas of their application

Silver is a noble metal that is used only in combination with other elements. Products made from pure silver become dull, are susceptible to damage and do not retain their presentation for long. To improve the qualities of the metal, impurities are added to it. The result is an alloy containing a noble element. The standard of silver depends on its quantity. To understand what type of silver exists, you need to decide in what form it comes.

Precious metal forms

The metal comes in various types and forms, which determine the standard of silver. The following types of element are distinguished:

1. The technical mineral contains a minimal amount of metal. Technical silver standard - 800 and below. This means that the alloy contains no more than 80% of the element. Such metal is not subject to marking.
2. Sterling metal is the standard element. It differs from other alloys in its white color, which looks noble and elegant. This metal is used to create jewelry. Silver products are marked as 925, which means that 92.5% is pure element, the rest is impurities. In addition to the brand, the manufacturer may be indicated in letters on the decoration.
3. Since the times of Tsarist Russia, silver tableware has become widespread. Such household items spoke of the wealth and refined taste of the owners. In Tsarist Russia they were used for interior decoration and for medicinal purposes. It was believed that old silver items had bactericidal properties. For example, silverware was used to purify water.

In Tsarist Russia, silverware could have a standard of 800, 875, or 925; it was made not from a metal alloy, but from silver coins.

For example, it took 2 coins to cast one spoon.

1. In Tsarist Russia, blackened metal markings were common. But, despite its popularity, it was and is an exclusive type of material. Amulets and ancient objects are made from it. This method of processing an element also dates back to the times of Tsarist Russia and has not lost its relevance to this day. In this case, chemical, galvanic, and mechanical methods are used. Modern technologies make it possible to make blackened material by oxidizing the metal with air.
2. One of the varieties of blackened mineral is oxidized metal. It is obtained by adding sulfur to the noble element. In this case, the ring, bracelets, and pendants made of mineral will look like antique items.

The oxidized coating tends to become thinner, so it may need to be restored over time.

1. Filigree material belongs to the refined alloys and has a high value among jewelers. It consists of a large number of small parts and the finest silver threads. There are two types of filigree: background and openwork.
2. Matte material has a rough surface and can be coated with enamel on top. This effect can be achieved by coating the mineral with a special composition that can change the top layer of the element. Jewelry with openwork patterns is made from it.

Samples of silver products

A person most often encounters precious metal when buying jewelry. Therefore, he is concerned with the question of what types of silver are there? Everyone needs to know this so as not to run into a fake.

The table will help you figure out what the standard of silver is. Here you can see not only the types of silver samples, but also what the distinctive features of the mineral are, depending on the marking, and its use.

Sample Quality of metal Application Distinctive features

600 and below	The mineral is of low quality	Used in industry as solder	Has a reddish tint
720	The mineral is of low quality	In jewelry it is used only for the manufacture of low-quality jewelry	The yellow-colored mineral quickly becomes covered with an oxide film
750	The mineral has an average level of quality	It is used to make tableware	Oxidizes quickly and requires frequent cleaning
800	The mineral has an average level of quality	Used in the production of cutlery	It quickly becomes covered with an oxide film. Regular cleaning required
875	The mineral has an average level of quality	Used for the production of interior decorations, tableware	The strength criteria are higher. With frequent use, a black coating appears. Needs periodic cleaning
916	High level of quality	Used in jewelry production to make expensive jewelry, coins, and memorial signs	The best standard among all markings for large-scale production
925	High level of quality	Used in jewelry production to make expensive jewelry, coins, and memorial signs	The best standard among all markings for large-scale production
960	The highest standard of silver	Used to create filigree	It has high plasticity and a bright white color. Virtually not subject to mechanical stress
999	The highest standard of silver	Used in industrial electronics and mechanical engineering. Is an excellent investment vehicle	The best test for investment. Has the form of round or rectangular ingots

The table shows that which silver standard is better depends on the application of the metal. For example, silver of the highest standard cannot be used for soldering elements, and the lowest quality is not suitable for jewelry production.

How can you tell if metal is real?

You can find out the markings of silver jewelry with the help of a jeweler. It easily determines the composition of the alloy and the purity of silver. When determining markings, specialists should focus on the approved silver standard in Russia. All of them have been ratified by GOST of the former Soviet Union and have quality certificates.

If you have any doubts about the quality of the jewelry, then you need to know how to check the authenticity of the metal. In order to determine the marking of silver at home, there are several ways:

• Everyone knows that the element belongs to metals that are not attracted to a magnet. Therefore, checking this method is the most effective;
• the metal has excellent thermal conductivity. If you hold the mineral in your hands, it will begin to heat up;
• The precious metal reacts well with certain elements. For example, when interacting with sulfur it darkens. If you smear the surface of jewelry with sulfur ointment, after a few hours a black tint will appear on the silver;
• Another way to determine the sample of silver is to apply a drop of iodine to the silver. A dark stain appears instantly; It is advisable to drip iodine onto the inner surface of the jewelry, as it is difficult to remove.
• You can rub the products with regular chalk. If it darkens, this indicates a higher grade of the mineral.

Price

Prices for 1 gram of metal depend on its marking. The lowest quality metal has a low cost. The most expensive marking is 999, as it contains the largest amount of pure metal. The average price ranges from 18 to 40 rubles.

When buying silver products, you need to think not only about its beauty, but also pay attention to its fineness. This will help you avoid counterfeiting and, accordingly, enjoy your purchase.

Source: https://ProDragmetally.ru/dragotsennye-metally/serebro/svojstva-splavov.html

Differences between 875 and 925 silver. What types of silver are there?

Today, there are special tables of silver samples that allow you to independently determine how high-quality the metal was used to create a certain product.

Silver products are very popular in society due to their visual and technical characteristics. In this article we will talk about what types of silver exist, where and how stamps are placed, and how the authenticity of a product can be established.

What samples of silver exist: the best sample

Silver itself has a soft silvery tint, is easy to clean, and does not darken for a long time, but there are conditions under which the appearance of the metal changes. It all depends on the sample or the volume of impurities contained.

Next we will talk about what grade of silver is the best. This question is often asked by novice collectors and simply amateurs who want to purchase a truly worthwhile item. The fact is that all silver products can be divided into groups according to quality level.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vrB9y-aUNEE

Pure silver is very soft and it is simply impossible to make dishes, “jewelry”, or souvenirs out of it. To prevent the accessory from losing its shape, other metals were initially mixed into the material.

When creating silver products, a variety of elements were used as impurities, and for this reason, the term “purity” was adopted to determine the “purity” and the actual content of pure metal. In other words, the sample indicates how much pure metal is in the alloy presented.

For example, a sample of 800 means 800 grams of silver and 200 grams of impurities per kilo of material. The main additive is copper, however, the more of this metal is added, the faster the silver item darkens and takes on a yellow tint.

Subsequently, this information became necessary in order to use a specific composition to create certain products. For example, 800-carat silver is suitable for making cutlery, but 925-carat metal is the basis for jewelry. The sample also has another name - a stamp, which indicates the sample number, sometimes the place and year of manufacture of the item.

What does a hallmark look like on a silver item?

It is important to have an idea of ​​what 925 silver or other hallmarks look like, where it is located and how to verify its authenticity. The presence of such a mark will allow you to find out in which country this or that item was made, who the craftsman is or at what enterprise the item was made, as well as what standard of the silver item we are talking about.

Let's start with the fact that the location of the mark can be different. The mark is small in size, but can be easily found on the item. In various countries, hallmarks are used, indicating the standard of silver, but with certain additions.

For example, in England, until 1300, brands kept the head of the British Lion, and in subsequent periods each city began to have its own mark.

Many people are interested in the answer to the question, what kind of silver standard is 84? In Russia, the number 84 was required to be indicated on the stamp, which corresponded to the 875 standard.

In some cases, we may be talking about a master's mark, which contains an individual image or initials of the person who made the item. The presence of a sample is considered the basis for confirming the authenticity of the item. At the same time, counterfeit samples are often found on forks, spoons, vessels, and jewelry. Only a professional can distinguish a fake from a real one if the marking was made by another master.

How much are “925” and “999” samples worth today?

Having understood what grades of silver there are, it is worth determining the cost of the material. As a rule, the price is set per gram and depends on the labeling. The most expensive bar is considered to be 999 fine. There are no other impurities in the ingot composition. The price per gram is about 18-40 rubles.

The remaining samples are evaluated as the volume of impurities increases. The lower the standard, the cheaper the item. Certain circumstances should be taken into account when purchasing antiques. Here the role is played not so much by the sample, but by originality and in what century the item was made. The older the product, the higher the price.

Summary table of silver samples

The presented table includes data on alloys having different compositions, and what products are made from such metal. The above markings are accepted in the Russian Federation and other countries.

Try	Silver, in grams	Copper, in grams	Manufactured products	Extra options
«800»	800	200	Forks, knives, spoons, sometimes plates.	It has the second name “yellow silver” because it has a high copper content. It is durable.
«830»	830	170	"Jewelry" at a low price and utensils for eating.	It oxidizes quickly, but is durable.
«875»	875	125	Dishes, inexpensive jewelry, interior accessories.	There is no yellowness, but the quality is not very high. Difficult to clean after darkening.
«925»	925	75	“Jewelry” and decorations, forks, knives, spoons, coins, commemorative badges.	Standard or sterling. It is distinguished by its plasticity and spectacular appearance. You need to remember the “926” sample, where the copper content is 76 grams.
«960»	960	40	Exclusive jewelry.	Very high quality material, but too soft. Used in particularly complex artistic work. To increase strength, the finished product is enameled. For the same purpose, 975 silver, previously designated as 84, is used.

The table does not indicate 999 fineness, as it is pure silver. The material is easily deformed and it is impossible to make any thing from it. For this reason, it is used as solder in the assembly of devices. Sold in bars or in special jars.

Special and rare varieties of silver samples

In addition to the described types of samples, there are others, but these options are considered the most popular among jewelers. Other countries use other systems: in Canada and the USA - carat, and in ancient times - spool (for example, 92sf is 960 silver). You can also meet other types of alloys:

1. 750 – high copper content and darkens very quickly;
2. 720 and below is base silver that has a yellowish tint and is used industrially because it has high electrical conductivity.

There are also rare types of samples:

• 325 is Tibetan silver, which was previously considered a high-quality alloy for making jewelry. Today, the composition may not contain any precious metal at all and is used to produce counterfeits;
• 500 – an alloy with a low proportion of argentum, from which coins were minted;
• 525,585,625 - gold samples to which silver is added are sometimes indicated as gilded silver;
• 825 - such a sample does not exist, and scammers often put it on stamps;
• 835, 800 and 900 – silver alloy used in Germany;
• 916 – was popular in Soviet times with a barrel stamp. The alloy was needed to produce dishes and ritual items.

All of these types of silver have their own special characteristics and were used in a specific historical period. Today they are extremely rare.

What is Radiant and 925 Sterling Silver

Silver can have different composition and appearance. This is where the differences between 875 and 925 silver standards lie. To provide clarification, it should be defined that s925 silver is sterling, and 875 plated silver is radiated.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-zO_poAblmw

Many readers have no idea what these alloy options are, so let’s give them a short description:

1. Sterling alloy is a snow-white mass that is not prone to oxidation. It is used to make spectacular jewelry;
2. Rhodium plated silver is a rare metal coated with rhodium, which belongs to the platinum group. Very hard, suitable for making jewelry.

The differences between the above compositions lie in the strength and durability of silver products.

Silver samples used in ancient times

Previously, various alloys of silver were popular. Each of them had a special appearance and use. The old compositions are as follows:

• blackened silver - was common in Rus' for making things with beautiful black patterns. The accessories are very durable and do not require cleaning;
• oxidized silver - the metal combines with sulfur and this leads to darkening. Replaces blackening, may have a purple tint. It was found in the USSR, with differences by year;
• matte silver – resistant to oxidation, used during the Russian Empire;
• gold-plated silver - a thin layer of gold is sprayed onto the silver. Typical of 19th century France.

There are other alloys that were used in ancient times, but these varieties were the most popular.

Is it possible to determine the sample at home?

To determine the sample at home, you will have to arm yourself with a magnifying glass and look for a special marking, that is, a brand. If there is a sample, we can say that we are talking about a noble metal, although today there are often fakes. For this reason, it is worth taking note of several more methods:

1. silver does not interact with a magnet, unlike metal, which means that such an examination will immediately identify a fake;
2. has high thermal conductivity and heats up easily in the hands;
3. darker from exposure to sulfur;
4. You can drip iodine onto the product. If a dark-colored spot remains, then the metal is silver;
5. the appearance of darkening from chalk indicates that the metal is of the highest standard.

Using these methods, you can independently determine the degree of quality of the product and the metal itself, however, if in doubt, it is better to contact a jeweler who will make an accurate diagnosis.

Source: https://fin-monitor.com/kakie-proby-serebra-byvayut.html

What is the best standard of silver, how to choose

Having examined the varieties of the precious metal, you can understand what grade of silver is most loved by jewelers. It all depends on the characteristics of the alloy and the purpose of the manufactured item.

Types of sample

The numerical value that is present on a silver product shows the ratio of the precious metal to the ligature. The main values ​​of samples that are used for the manufacture of jewelry, dishes, and decorative items:

1. 720 is a metal that oxidizes and changes in appearance over time. It is mainly used to make small parts of clothing: clasps, zippers, decorative elements.
2. 800 and 825 - this type of metal is suitable for making dishes and interior elements. The percentage of silver content in such products is 80% and 83%, which allows them to be actively used for household needs. However, the surface should be periodically cleaned of oxidized film.
3. 875 and 916 are higher quality metals, which are used to make shot glasses, glasses, wine glasses, and ashtrays. Jewelers often use gold plating in such products, which makes the devices more sophisticated.
4. 925 is the most favorable ratio of metal and alloy. The appearance and resistance to water and air have allowed silver of this standard to gain popularity.
5. 960 - rarely used for making jewelry or cutlery, its properties and appearance are equivalent to pure silver. This metal is short-lived and susceptible to mechanical stress - it bends, gets scratched, and wears off.
6. 999 – pure silver. Exquisite jewelry and decorative items are made from this metal, but it is mainly stored in ingots.

Silver products have several hallmarks

In addition, white metal is often used in 525 gold alloy. Silver is added to such products to reduce their cost and increase durability.

Sample measurement systems

There is not only a metric system for precious metals, but also a carat system. For the Russian Federation, since 1927, it has been customary to use metric measurement of the quality of precious metal. However, if the purchase of jewelry is made abroad, it is necessary to understand the relationship between these two scales of measurement:

• 875 standard – 21 carats;
• 925 – 23 carats;
• 960 – 24 carats.

Best samples

The best silver samples are least susceptible to external influences and retain their specific shade longer. Products made from alloys containing 96-99% silver are too ductile and therefore cannot be used for everyday use.

When choosing your jewelry or dishes, you should pay attention to 875 and 925 samples . By making objects from this material, jewelers can realize the most unusual ideas. Products with a higher copper content are considered more durable, but are not as popular due to their yellowish tint.

999 fineness is the best for investment, so it is most often stored in bullion. Also, in addition to pure silver, an alloy with cadmium is valued, which allows the metal to maintain its white tint and resistance to mechanical stress.

Types of silver

Despite the fact that stores mainly sell white silver, there are several types of this metal in terms of composition and external characteristics:

1. Sterling . The purity of a product made from this alloy is 925. It is distinguished by its beautiful shine and noble white color. Coins were made from this metal in England.
2. Blackened . It is specially manufactured using a complex technological process. This type is preferred by connoisseurs of exclusivity, as well as people who believe in the mystical properties of metal. Amulets, amulets, and objects that want to be given an antique look are made from it.
3. Filigree . These jewelry look unusual because they are made of many soldered thin silver wires. The work on such a product is delicate and therefore requires skill.
4. Matte . Recently, these silver jewelry are gaining popularity. A rough surface is achieved using a special corrosive chemical or a sandblasting machine. The finished jewelry is processed and a unique appearance is obtained for dishes, rings, and necklaces.

You can easily find each of the listed types of silver in jewelry stores. However, the most common type is sterling.

Silver of the highest 999 standard is used mainly in bullion

Technical silver and imitation silver

Technical silver is not assayed, since it is not used in the manufacture of tableware and jewelry . It contains less than 80% of precious metal, however, objects made of technical metal are durable, reflect light well, and conduct electricity. Such products are used in industrial production as parts for equipment.

Silver is considered a noble metal, which is credited with healing properties. That is why products made from it are often counterfeited by scammers. Initially, they began to imitate silver with the aim of replacing it cheaper in production, cladding of monuments, interior and exterior design. The material most often used instead of silver is:

1. Cupronickel. 84 sterling silver, the alloy of cupronickel products combines nickel, copper, and manganese. Dishes made from such material are harmful to health, so it is very important to take a responsible approach to purchasing silver utensils.
2. Nickel silver . Cutlery made from this metal is safer, as it is necessarily coated with a thin layer of pure silver. However, after this coating wears and wears off, a metallic taste will be felt.
3. Silver potal . Imitation white gold leaf. Initially, this material was intended for finishing furniture, interior items, and wall decor.

The smallest numerical value that is stamped on jewelry is 800. Anything that has a lower percentage of silver in the alloy is sold as costume jewelry in Russia.

How to choose a silver product

When buying jewelry or dishes abroad in local markets, there is a high probability that instead of precious metal, technical silver or cupronickel will be sold. In appearance, an ordinary person will not see the difference, but after a short period of use, such metal begins to darken or turn yellow, and it will not be possible to clean it and restore its shine.

When choosing a precious item, you should contact jewelry stores or order the desired item online from suppliers with a good reputation. You should not rely on your own experience, because modern scammers can fake samples, as well as the logo and design of famous world brands.

The best standard for valuable and high-quality jewelry is considered to be 875 and 925 . This alloy has a noble white hue and strength. This sample is sold in specialized stores; they have quality certificates.

If you don't know which silver is best, consider the type of product you need. For cutlery, household silver containing 87.5% noble metal is recommended. For jewelry, it is advisable to pay attention to 925 alloy.

Blackened silver is used in antique jewelry

How to independently determine the quality of silver

You can determine the quality of silver not only by contacting a jeweler who will evaluate the cost of your product. After purchase, a guarantee is generally given for up to 14 days; during this period, you can check the authenticity of the silver and return the purchase to the store. There are several rapid tests that you can use at home:

1. Check with a magnet. A high-quality alloy will not be attracted to it. However, remember that not every alloy metal responds to the force of a magnet.
2. White metal takes on the temperature of the air and objects it touches. Therefore, it heats up well in the hand and cools down quickly in cold water or frost.
3. Silver darkens from iodine or sulfur ointment . Therefore, you can put a small spot and see if the mark remains. However, remember that removing iodine is not easy.
4. You can check the authenticity of a piece of jewelry without damaging it using chalk. Once the precious metal comes into contact with the rock, it will darken.

To check metal for softness and internal contents, it is not recommended to cut, bend, or melt it. You will simply ruin the product, even if it was not fake, no one will return the cost of the damaged jewelry.

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Source: https://fintolk.ru/o-raznom/kakaya-proba-u-serebra-samaya-horoshaya-kak-vybrat.html

Silver samples: which is the best?

Only jewelers know that pure silver is a precious metal that is not only beautiful, but also impractical. The highest standard of silver means not only quality, but softness, difficulty of processing and rapid loss of gloss.

If you intensively use openwork jewelry made of pure silver, and even more so if you clean it with abrasive materials, then it will become smooth and lose its relief. This threatens the decoration with loss of expressiveness and artistic value.

What are the hallmarks of silver, and what does this mean in terms of the use of the metal in jewelry and other activities?

As a result, master jewelers from all over the world began to use in their work not pure silver, but alloys with alloyed metal. But each master has his own percentage of ligature additions. Some consider it acceptable to add no more than 5%, while others “dilute” the source material by half with additives. Each alloy has its own characteristics, and the choice of jewelers depends on the purpose of the product.

Types of sample

What are the hallmarks of this precious metal? On the finished silver product there is a numerical value indicating the ratio of metal and alloy. Jewelry, dishes and decorative items are made from samples of the following basic values:

1. 720— a metal that is susceptible to oxidation and changes over time. Mainly used for making small parts of clothing: buttons, clasps and zippers.
2. 800 and 825 are metals suitable for the production of tableware and interior elements. A high percentage of silver content (80 - 83%) is suitable for the active use of objects made from such metal in everyday life. Periodically, an oxidizing film forms on products, which must be removed.
3. 875 and 916 are high-quality metals that are actively used for the production of gift sets, wine glasses, glasses, ashtrays and glasses. To add sophistication to silver items of this standard, jewelers often complement their finishing with gilding.
4. 925— a classic and proven combination of ligature additives and pure metal. Is this a good test or not? Products of this sample retain their beautiful appearance and are resistant to air and water.
5. 960— in appearance and physical properties it is equivalent to pure silver. However, such metal is short-lived, so it is almost never used for making dishes or jewelry.
6. 999— pure silver, highest standard. Most often stored in bullion, it is sometimes used to produce fine jewelry or decorative items.

Often silver (for example, 825) is added to 525 gold to increase the durability of the product and reduce its price.

How to measure a sample?

There are two systems used to measure precious metal samples: metric and carat . In Russia, metric measurement of the quality of metals has been adopted since 1927. However, when buying jewelry abroad, you need to first familiarize yourself with the ratio of measurement scales for one and another method:

• 20 carats = 830 standard;
• 21 carats = 875th standard;
• 22 carats = 925th standard;
• 23 carats = 960th standard;
• 24 carats = 999th purity.

Which sample is better?

The best samples are characterized by resistance to external influences and retain their unique shade. But jewelry and utensils made of silver, the share of which is 96 - 99%, have too high ductility and are unsuitable for daily use.

So what is better - which sample? It depends on the purpose of the product. When choosing interior items, dishes or jewelry, you need to pay attention to products of 875 and 925 samples. It is this metal that gives jewelers the opportunity to realize the most unusual ideas. However, if the alloy contains more copper, then its popularity decreases due to the yellowish tint of the products, but the strength will be increased.

The alloy of silver with cadmium is also highly valued, because such a metal acquires a noble white tint and increased mechanical resistance.

Varieties of silver

What to give preference to : light or dark metal?

Buyers are accustomed to seeing white silver on store shelves and do not think that there are several varieties of the precious metal. Silver differs in color and composition:

1. Blackened - the production of such metal is preceded by a complex technological process. Blackened objects are popular among connoisseurs of exclusivity and lovers of amulets (such metal is believed to have mystical properties).
2. Sterling is 925 silver with a beautiful shine and exquisite white color. This type of metal received its name thanks to the English coins that were minted from it.
3. Matte - the popularity of silver jewelry is growing, but buyers want something new and unusual. That's why jewelers invented matte silver - by treating the surface of the product with special corrosive substances or a sandblasting machine. Jewelry is first made and then processed at the final stage, giving the pieces a unique look.
4. Filigree - filigree manufacturing technology involves soldering many thin silver wires together. The high cost of filigree products is due to the high demands on the skill of the jeweler and the complexity of their manufacture.

Filigree silver jewelry

Most items and jewelry presented on Russian shelves are made of sterling silver.

Technical metal and imitation

Technical silver is distinguished by its lack of fineness and precious metal content of less than 80%. This metal has its advantages - it is durable and lightweight, has good electrical conductivity and conducts light well. Therefore, technical silver has found its application in electronics and apparatus parts , as well as in industrial production.

have long been known , which formed the basis for the manufacture of silver ionizers for water and the popularity of silver tableware and jewelry. Due to the high cost of the metal, there is always a risk of it being counterfeited by fraudsters. Imitation of silver also occurs in the decoration of monuments and the manufacture of decorative items. Precious metal substitutes are also used in production equipment. Usually, instead of silver, they use:

1. Nickel silver - this metal for the production of cutlery is necessarily coated with a small layer of pure silver. But when this layer wears off, a metallic taste will be felt when using nickel silver cookware.
2. Cupronickel , an alloy that has received this name, combines 84 sterling silver, copper, manganese and nickel. Dishes are made from it, but they cannot be called useful .
3. Silver leaf - imitates white gold leaf. Intended for finishing furniture, walls and decorative items.

The minimum value of jewelry standard accepted in Russia is 800. Everything else must be designated as costume jewelry.

Rules for choosing silver products

Please note that when buying dishes or jewelry at local markets in foreign countries, you can get cupronickel or technical silver instead of the promised silver. It is almost impossible to distinguish them externally, but even short-term use will reveal all the shortcomings of counterfeit silver.

It is safest to buy jewelry and tableware in trusted jewelry stores or directly from the manufacturer through an online store .

Not sure which sample to choose? Choose based on the purpose of the product. For example, household silver with 87.5% pure metal in its composition is suitable for tableware, and for jewelry it is better to pay attention to silver with 925 purity.

Is it possible to determine the quality of silver yourself?

How to choose and buy the highest quality silver so as not to be deceived?

You can definitely find out the quality of the product by contacting a jeweler who will carry out an assessment. If the product is of poor quality, you can return it to the store within 14 days after purchase. You can also use express tests that are quite suitable for doing at home:

1. Testing with a magnet - a high-quality silver product will not be attracted to a magnet, however, some alloy metals do not react to magnetic influence.
2. Silver heats up well in the hand and cools quickly in a cold environment, for example, in the cold.
3. Pure metal will darken from sulfur ointment or iodine. To test the quality of the alloy, it is enough to leave a tiny spot on the product and check whether a trace remains. But if the silver is real, then it will not be easy to wipe it off.
4. You can check the authenticity of jewelry or dishes using chalk — real silver will darken upon contact with the rock.

   925 sterling silver ring

Conclusion

You should not bend, melt or cut a silver item to check its authenticity - you will simply ruin the item, regardless of whether it is genuine or not.

The absence of a hallmark on a silver product means either that it is not silver, or that the silver content in the alloy is below 800. In Russia, such items are not hallmarked, but in other countries, for example, in China, it may be present.

Silver samples: which is the best? Link to main publication

Source: https://Fininru.com/dragmetally/luchshaya-proba-u-serebra

Silver samples: which metal is used for jewelry and which for tableware

Silver is a metal that is little susceptible to oxidation and corrosion. That is why it is a popular material for making jewelry, dishes and other products. But the material has high ductility and low hardness. Therefore, in most cases it is used in the form of alloys. Silver samples are important information about the metal content of an alloy.

Alloys and assay

There are several testing systems. In Russia, the metric notation system has been adopted. It is accepted in countries such as Germany and France, the CIS countries and those countries that have signed the Convention on the Control and Hallmarking of Precious Metals.

It is worth noting that this system is the most accurate, since it gives a clear percentage of the precious metal and alloying additives in the product. By definition, fineness is the amount of pure silver in an item per 1000 grams. For example: a product with hallmark number 800 contains 800 grams of silver and 200 grams of other metals. Hallmark is also called a hallmark on a silver item.

The main additional metals in silver products are copper, nickel, aluminum and zinc. There are alloys with other components. Copper gives a characteristic yellow tint to the product, and a large number of other impurities can cause the product to be susceptible to corrosion and oxidation.

At the same time, impurities make it possible to better achieve the required physical characteristics for a particular product. Alloys with different percentages of silver and other metals are used in different areas of production.

Properties depending on impurities

The table of silver samples shows the properties and main characteristics of the alloys that are used most often.

Try	Compound, %	Advantages	Flaws	Scope of application
Silver	Dopants
999	99,9	0,01	High ductility	Easy to bend or break, oxidizes and darkens	Bullions and collectible coins
960	96,0	4,0	Does not oxidize in air	Quickly loses attractiveness	Jewelry
925	92,5	7,5	Retains its shape well and allows for filigree work, beautiful white shade	Softness	Jewelry
916	91,6	8,4	Does not oxidize in air	Loses its appearance quickly	Jewelry, cutlery covered with enamel
875	87,5	12,5	Increased strength	Inability to perform fine jewelry work	Household silver, cutlery, economy class jewelry
830	83,0	17,0	High strength and casting qualities	Easily oxidizes and darkens, has a yellow tint	Dishes
800	80,0	20,0	High strength and casting qualities	Rapid oxidation and yellowish tint	Cutlery, household items
777	77,7	12,3	High hardness, strength and ductility; rich color and pleasant shine	Not in any sample standard	Jewelry industry

Precious metals include silver with hallmarks:

• Ag 999;
• Ag 960;
• Ag 925;
• Ag 916;
• Ag 875;
• Ag 830;
• Ag 800.

Alloys with a purity lower than 800 are in most cases not marked and are not considered jewelry metal. Nevertheless, such products are found on the Russian market.

Extended Feature

Based on the brief data presented in the table, it is easy to conclude that a product of the highest quality and most expensive does not at all mean that it contains the greatest amount of pure metal.

To understand which silver sample is the best , you need to understand the characteristics of the samples and determine the purpose of using the material: jewelry, cutlery, dishes or other product.

Sample 999. Silver of the highest standard. It contains only 0.01% impurities, from which it is almost impossible to clean the metal. Pure silver is highly susceptible to deformation, so jewelry and other products are not made from it.

The scope of application of such material is very narrow. It is mainly used for the manufacture of solders and some parts of various types of devices. Also found in the form of ingots or souvenir collectibles.

Sample 960. High quality silver with a high content of pure metal. Rarely used in the jewelry industry due to its soft structure. This product is easy to scratch, so manufacturers cover it with enamel. The main advantage of the material is the ability to create highly artistic works from it. In addition to jewelry, silver of this standard is used in the production of decorative elements.

Sample 925 . The most common hallmark among jewelry. The relatively small amount of copper (7.5%) makes silver strong enough while remaining malleable to create a wide variety of shapes. Copper does not change the natural white color and shine of silver. Thus, the products are beautiful and durable, and therefore of proper quality.

Sample 916 . Previously, the alloy with 91.6% silver was widely used in the jewelry industry. Nowadays they use 925 sterling silver instead, which is of a higher quality. Silver of this standard was also used to make dishes and cutlery. The material is quite wear-resistant and durable, but quickly loses its visual appeal, which is why it becomes necessary to coat it with enamel.

Sample 875 . The silver product of this sample contains a fairly large amount of impurities (12.5%). Since copper in such quantities does not give a yellow tint, the alloy is excellent for the production of dishes and cutlery. Jewelry made from such material looks cheap; it is not possible to perform delicate artistic work, since the material is hard to work with.

Sample 830. Jewelry quickly loses its visual appeal and oxidizes. Characteristic yellow tint. This type of silver is used primarily for the production of tableware.

Sample 800 . The alloy has high strength, but the high copper content affects the color of silver - it acquires a pronounced yellow tint and quickly oxidizes. Used for the production of dishes and cutlery.

Sample 777 . A unique alloy that is credited with inventions in the field of jewelry production. It is not included in any hallmark standard, but the jewelry market is actively offering products made from 777 sterling silver. The peculiarity of the alloy is in its components:

• silver 77.75;
• platinum - 0.05−0.5;
• gold - 0.05−0.5;
• palladium - 0.1−1.0;
• the rest is copper.

This material allows you to create jewelry of almost any complexity and combine various materials. Under certain conditions, the alloy is quite plastic and easily deformable. The impurities in the composition are selected in such a way that copper does not affect the noble white color of silver. Thus, the jewelry has high performance.

Sample 750 . Low quality silver, which is not always marked because it is not a precious metal. It quickly oxidizes and turns black, has a characteristic yellow tint. Used in radio electronics for the manufacture of circuit boards or other parts.

Many countries have their own types of samples that are not included in the world system. For example, in Europe, an alloy containing 935 is quite common. It should also be noted that silver itself is part of gold jewelry alloys. For example, it is present in gold 525 and 325. Some sources also mention completely exotic percentages of silver: 923, 975, 910, 225, 492. However, in ordinary life it is almost impossible to find such alloys.

Silver samples and hallmarks - main types, properties and features of the use of different alloys

Silver hallmarks are markings on a precious metal that indicate the purity of the alloy. Different countries used their own marking systems, but the masters had one goal - to show the buyer the quality of their creation. Pure silver has never been used in production - the metal is too soft and not suitable for dishes and jewelry.

Silver hallmarks often consist of combinations and numbers that craftsmen have used to mark their pieces for hundreds of years. Numerical marks indicating the percentage of pure silver in the material are common. The marking was unified in the states that signed the Convention on Control and Labeling.

Silver samples

In the past, craftsmen most often used copper as an alloying material. This metal had the least effect on the color of the product, but at the same time gave it strength. In the 20th century, germanium, platinum, silicon and boron began to be used to protect against scale and darkening. In recent decades, alloys protected from scale formation and tarnishing have appeared, and competition is prompting companies to actively work to improve the composition.

800 sample

The “800” mark marks an alloy that contains 20% copper. The alloy is traditionally used to make cutlery and souvenirs. The advantages of the material are its strength and good casting properties. Even the high content of the ligature does not spoil the appearance of the product; it retains its shine, only giving it a slightly yellowish tint.

The disadvantage of raw materials is that objects made from them oxidize over time and do not tolerate a humid environment. It is not recommended to pour lemon juice or vinegar into such dishes, since upon contact with the surface, copper sulfide is formed, which is hazardous to health. In the absence of constant care, a yellow coating forms on the product, which gradually turns black.

In modern production, the alloy is rarely used. Typically, such silver undergoes treatment - rhodium plating or passivation, when the surface is covered with a thin layer of rhodium or etched with chemical compounds to protect the top layer from oxidation.

British jewelers of the past did not use the alloy, but in other European countries the picture was different. Until the end of the 19th century, German craftsmen independently determined the composition of the material, although the imperial decree of 1548 introduced mandatory branding.

In 1888, order was brought to the jewelry business - digital markings had to be applied to objects and jewelry. As an alternative, the master could use a mark with a crescent and an imperial crown, which corresponded to the minimum allowable eight hundred mark.

Russian jewelers made items from low-grade argentum both in pre-revolutionary and Soviet times. Since the time of Peter I, all workshop products had to undergo mandatory branding. Since the middle of the 19th century, the object was marked with a female profile in a kokoshnik, the hallmark was marked with numbers and a letter indicating the division of the assay office. Until 1927, products were marked using a spool system.

830 sample

The raw material is not represented in the international classification, since its quality is not much different from 800 standard silver. A large percentage of copper in the composition leads to the fact that over time the products oxidize and darken. The material is made from:

• accessories;
• figurines;
• interior details;
• inexpensive jewelry.

Items marked “830” are found among the creations of masters from Germany, Norway, France, and Denmark. Basically these are a variety of dishes. The not too high cost of the metal made it possible to make massive products from it, and the surface was often protected with gilding.

875 sample

875 silver is not very suitable for making jewelry, but it oxidizes less in air and darkens. Items made from this alloy are easy to clean and last longer without losing their appearance.

A lot of products made from this alloy have survived to this day, since it was the most popular material for making durable and strong tableware. In pre-revolutionary Russia, it was from it that court jewelers made sets for the imperial family.

But they branded it until 1927 with 84 hallmarks. This corresponded to 84 parts of silver and 12 parts of impurities.

925 sample

925 silver is often called sterling silver. The origin of the term is associated with the merchants of the Hanseatic League, who sailed to England from the Baltic (Eastern) Sea and were called “Easterlings”. Traders used silver coins in payments, which were protected from depreciation, and over time the name of the monetary unit was transformed into pounds sterling.

The earliest evidence of sterling silver is found in the 1085 charter of the French abbey of Les Préaux. In Great Britain, the standard regulating the activities of goldsmiths was introduced by King Edward I in 1300. According to this document, silver was recognized as an alloy in which the precious metal content was at least 92.5%. The purity was confirmed by the markings - the numbers were replaced by the figure of a lion.

The material is considered universal. It does not have the disadvantages inherent in alloys with a high copper content: it retains its color, does not oxidize, but at the same time is plastic and suitable for the manufacture of complex products with many decorative elements. At the same time, the alloy is quite durable - earrings, chains, necklaces and rings hold their shape well, and the locks on them do not break.

In Great Britain, the Victorian era was the heyday of silverware production. An indispensable attribute of the dining table of a wealthy family in Europe and the USA was a silver set, sometimes consisting of hundreds of items. Ceremonial meals could include up to ten courses, and each had its own set of utensils, including spoons, knives and forks.

Made from precious raw materials:

• gravy boats;
• tureens;
• trays;
• tea and coffee sets.

The alloy could withstand high temperatures and was completely safe, since copper decomposition products did not form on the surface of objects. Tables in those days were literally bursting with silver—serving decorations, napkin rings, and candlesticks were made from it.

In the first third of the 20th century, the popularity of the material began to decline. The cost of large sets increased noticeably due to increased production costs, and few could afford such dishes. In fine dining restaurants, precious table settings were gradually abandoned - items required constant and lengthy cleaning, and speed of service gradually came to the fore.

960 sample

960 silver is an expensive material and, due to its softness, is not suitable for making tableware. The precious metal looks great in complex jewelry that requires detailed work - woven necklaces, openwork bracelets and earrings. Objects made from it practically do not oxidize, do not lose their color and are well polished. At the same time, the products also have a significant drawback - they must be handled very carefully so as not to accidentally deform them.

The precious metal is used by jewelers using filigree or filigree techniques. An intricate design made of silver wire can decorate a substrate made of hammered or smooth metal, but the most beautiful are openwork products where the elements are soldered together and form airy patterns. The heyday of hand-made filigree in Russia occurred in the 18th century - craftsmen combined silver with crystal, precious stones, enamel and created masterpieces of jewelry.

A revolution in the industry was carried out by a team of researchers at Middlesex University in London, led by master Peter Jones. As a result of their experiments with various metals, Argentum appeared in 1990, where germanium was added instead of copper. The resulting material turned out to be plastic, very durable, resistant to tarnishing and at the same time hypoallergenic.

999 sample

Pure silver with a minimum amount of impurities is a material for the manufacture of bank bars, solders, and the thinnest coatings. The precious metal is used in electrical engineering, chemical and aerospace industries. Excellent bactericidal properties are used in the manufacture of:

• medicines;
• ionizing installations for water and air;
• filters for the alcohol industry.

In jewelry, craftsmen create top coatings from such raw materials or make individual elements of jewelry from it according to individual orders. Banks sell high-grade collectible coins, but they must be handled very carefully and stored in a special container, as the soft metal is easy to scratch.

Determining the authenticity of silver products

The variety of marks on antique objects makes it difficult to determine the sample. If in Great Britain and Germany the hallmark system was legally regulated for centuries, then the creations of Italian jewelers are very difficult to identify, since mandatory marking began to be used in the country only in 1870.

It is possible to determine the authenticity of silver at home. One of the properties of metal is high thermal conductivity, so a piece of ice placed on an object quickly melts. They also check the material by sound - to do this, you need to knock on the dubious product with a silver coin. The purity of the sound will indicate authenticity.

One of the common counterfeiting techniques is transferring the sample to an object using soldering. The joints are masked by blackening or engraving. In this case, only a professional with experience and the necessary equipment can determine the authenticity of the product.

The history of stamps is quite well studied. Signs and places where markings were applied changed over different time periods, so identifying the product does not cause difficulties for specialists. Very Important Lot auction catalogs contain items that have been pre-screened by experts. In the lot cards you will find a detailed description of antique silver products - jewelry, dishes, toiletries and elegant small items.

Source: https://veryimportantlot.com/ru/news/blog/proby-serebra-opredelenie-vidy-primenenie

Silver samples - what are they?

Silver is incredibly beautiful, but if it is not used in its pure form, it quickly loses its appearance - it becomes tarnished and damaged. Therefore, alloys with different ratios of precious metal are used. Therefore, a method for assessing the silver sample was introduced.

What types of silver are there?

What does a silver sample mean and what markings exist? The three-digit sample system was developed in 1927 and is still successfully used today. According to the stamps, the quality and value of the resulting jewelry is determined by how much pure material is per 1000 grams.

The most common ones include 750, 800, 875, 916, 925, 960 and 999.

All alloys differ only in the percentage of pure precious metal content. The sampling system adopted in Russia is one of the most accurate; this number gives a more accurate result of the ratio of pure metal and added alloys.

It is customary to use hard materials as additional components: nickel, copper, aluminum, zinc. Copper is mainly used, as it combines perfectly with silver.

Gum is used less frequently, which increases the cost of the product, and the metal itself has a beautiful snow-white hue.

The lowest grades are 750 and 800, which contain the lowest percentage of silver. In some countries, alloys are made with 60% pure precious metal; the product made from it acquires a yellowish or red tint.

In Russia, such a test is not used due to low quality.

To answer the question of which silver sample is the best, you need to learn in detail about all existing types, since each of them exists for a specific purpose, some are used only for tableware, others are used for beautiful jewelry.

Silver alloy in various samples

The 750 marking indicates low-grade silver, which contains 75% pure metal, the remaining 25% is copper. It melts poorly and has a yellow tint. This alloy is used in industry for the manufacture of circuit boards.

In contrast, the 800 grade product has improved casting properties, despite its yellowish tint.

This metal oxidizes quickly, so it must be periodically cleaned of oxides; it is used mainly for the manufacture of cutlery and household items.

Low standards include marking 875; this composition is used for glasses, shot glasses and ashtrays. Sometimes the alloy can be used for inexpensive jewelry of low quality.

925 sterling silver is the most common. It turns out to be a beautiful, noble white shade with high anti-corrosion properties. The composition is often used for jewelry due to its strength and good casting properties. Sterling coins were made from this alloy in England for a long time. To this day, sterling silver is highly valued for its high quality. It contains 92.5% pure metal and 7.5% copper.

916 and 960 samples are used less frequently for the production of any artistic exhibits. This alloy is not used for precious jewelry; products made from it quickly lose their appearance. Their advantage is that they do not oxidize in air.

What is the highest standard of silver

The highest standard of silver is 999, the alloy is quite soft and subject to deformation.

A sample of pure silver is used for smelting collectible products or bars due to the fact that they are less susceptible to various damages. 999 silver is widely used in Japan, where they endow the pure metal with a number of magical properties and do not want to dilute it with other materials.

How to spot fake silver

How to determine the sample of silver yourself and distinguish imitation from precious metal? The best decision would be to contact a jeweler; he will accurately determine the type and composition of the metal. Any samples of Russian silver are approved by GOST and have quality certificates. If you have the slightest doubt, after purchasing any sample of jewelry silver, you can check its authenticity at home.

1. The most effective method is to check it with a magnet. Real silver will not be attracted.2. Silver conducts heat well, unlike counterfeit, so it heats up quickly even in your hands.3. You can check the authenticity of any type of silver sample by smearing the product with sulfur ointment.

After a couple of hours, the precious metal will turn black.4. Iodine is the litmus test for real silver. If you drop it on a piece of precious metal, a dark spot will immediately appear. However, it will be difficult to remove later.

5. A safer method for decoration is to rub it with regular chalk.

If the chalk becomes darker, it means it is a precious metal.

When purchasing a product, you should pay attention not only to its beautiful appearance, but also to the sample, in order to avoid further troubles and not run into a fake. Only then will jewelry products be of appropriate quality, in accordance with all state standards.

Source: http://lombardyinfo.ru/stati/proby-serebra.html

What standard is pure silver? | ABOUT SILVER

Pure silver has a purity of 999. That is, this means that 1000 grams of pure silver contains 999 grams of pure noble metal. The one gram that remains is an alloy of various impurities. Of course, the concept of pure silver is quite inaccurate, since today it is impossible to obtain silver that does not contain any impurities of other metals. Considering that 999 silver is considered the best, it is generally considered pure silver.

999 pure silver

What is 999 silver?

Pure silver is a silvery-white metal that is distinguished by its ductility and softness. Thanks to this, the metal can be easily processed, so any piece of jewelry can be made from it.

From a chemical point of view, pure silver is a fairly low-active metal. That is, in air the process of its oxidation takes a long time. It's no secret that pure silver does not tarnish. This is due to the fact that white rhodium is applied to its surface.

Thanks to this, pure silver is completely protected from the oxidation process.

Pure 999 silver is not very often used to create jewelry, and those items that go on sale have a high cost. In fact, any products made from this metal are easily deformed and scratched, which is why it must be stored in special cases that will protect it from damage.

If we talk about the use of pure silver as jewelry, then it is used to create individual parts of the same jewelry, which is why their price is several times higher than the cost of products made from 925 carat. Based on the foregoing, we can conclude that this metal has both advantages and disadvantages. Let's figure out why pure 999 sterling silver is better than 925 sterling silver.

The difference between 925 and 999

925 sterling silver is in great demand among jewelers, as it is considered a durable and non-deformable metal. Given that the 999 sample is soft, it is not as often used for jewelry as the 925 sample.

If we talk about making silver cutlery, then 925 standard is ideal for this, since products made from this silver will keep their shape and will not oxidize in contact with food. Also, the process of cleaning products from this sample is much simpler than cleaning products from the 999 sample.

We can definitely say that if you are a real connoisseur of precious items, then you can choose jewelry from 999 standard, but if you need practicality of use, then it is better to choose 925 standard.

Summarizing:

Based on the foregoing, it becomes clear that when choosing a silver sample for the manufacture of any product, you need to pay attention to the characteristics of metals of different samples, and take into account the practicality of their use. Also, special attention should be paid to the complexity of cleaning products from various samples.

Source: https://proserebro.info/2019/04/08/kakoj-proby-chistoe-serebro-2/