Silver Facts - FAQs

What is silver? 

• Silver (Ag) is an element that sits between Copper (Cu above) and Gold (Au, below) on the periodic table. 
• Fine silver (99.99% silver) is soft and scratches easily, making it unsuitable for jewelry or tableware. 
• Silver is a metal that conducts electricity better than any other, so it is used in solar panels and electric vehicles.

What is Sterling Silver?

• Sterling silver is an alloy containing 92.5 % silver and 7.5% other metal, usually copper. 
• The addition of copper makes sterling harder, and ideal for jewelry and tableware.
• Silver jewelry is stamped ‘.925’, or ‘Sterling’. The stamp may be tiny, but visible with a magnifying glass.

Why does silver tarnish?

• Sulfur in the air reacts with silver causing tarnish.
• Areas near coal plans, petroleum refineries, and automobile traffic may have more sulfur in the air, contributing to tarnish.
• Humidity in the air makes silver tarnish more quickly, so it’s best to avoid keeping jewelry in or near moist air from the bathroom.
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