metal, forcing manufacturers to add alloys to strengthen it. O
Pure silver is a soft metal, for timevinger.org cing manufacturers to add alloys to strengthen it. Otherwise known as sterling silver, it usually contains other metals such as copper or zinc. In general, sterling silver is 92.5% sil timesofamerica.info ver, which is why you’ll notice ‘925’ on the jewelry pieces. This means the remaining 7.5% of the jewelry must contain another metal. Additionally, sterling can be above 92.5%, but the amount cannot fall below the threshold. You may see other labels, such as ‘800’, indicating the jewelry is 80% silver. You’ll normally see the 800-label attached to silverware. The label ‘500’ shows the piec tincona.com e comprises 50% silver. The 500 alternative is a good choice for the budget-minded consumer. However, be wary of disreputable merchants who may try to market 500 jewelry as something higher. Note: Sterling-plated jewelry is misleading. This is jewelry containing plated silver. Designed to look fancier,...