925 Sterling Silver: What It Means, Why It’s So Popular & How to Choose Jewellery
by Raj Gupta on Aug 04, 2025

Silver jewellery has made a significant comeback in recent years, especially among women looking for stylish, durable pieces without the high price tag of gold. But not all silver is the same. When shopping online or in-store, you'll come across “925 silver” or “sterling silver”—terms often used interchangeably. But what do they mean? Why is 925 silver so popular? And how do you choose a piece you’ll love long-term?
In this guide, you’ll understand:
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What exactly 925 sterling silver is
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Why it’s preferred over pure silver or silver-plated jewellery
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The current price range in India
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How to spot real silver with hallmarking
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How to care for sterling silver jewellery
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Plus a full FAQ section with search-optimized questions like “925 silver”
Let’s begin with the basics.
What Is 925 Silver?
Also called sterling silver, 925 silver refers to a metal alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals—usually copper, sometimes zinc or nickel.
Pure silver (999 fineness) is too soft for most jewellery. By adding a small amount of alloy, craftsmen strengthen the metal—making it durable enough for necklace, rings, earrings, and more.
What matters most? That 925 sterling silver refers to quality jewellery-grade metal—not silver-plated or imitation pieces.
Why Is 925 Silver So Popular?
1. Superior Durability & Shine
Because it’s stronger than 999 silver, 925 sterling silver withstands daily wear better. It forms a fine patina, and can be polished to restore shine easily.
2. Affordable Yet Precious
Silver is far more affordable than gold. In India, pure silver currently trades around ₹110–₹120 per gram. 925 silver is valued at 92.5% of that rate—roughly ₹100–₹110/g—making it an accessible choice for fine-looking jewellery.
3. Hypoallergenic & Skin-Safe
Sterling silver is typically nickel-free and safe for sensitive skin—unlike cheaper alloys or plating that may cause reactions.
4. Versatile for Styles
From polished chains to oxidised statement earrings, you can find 925 silver in minimal everyday pieces and bold artisan designs alike. It also layers well with demi-fine and fine jewellery looks.
5. Trusted Hallmarks
Real sterling is stamped with “925” or “Sterling”—legally certified by BIS hallmarking centres in India, which verify the metal purity.
Current Price of 925 Sterling Silver in India
The price changes daily based on the commodity market. As of early August 2025:
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999 silver costs around ₹113/g (~₹11,300 per 100 g or ₹1,13,000 per kg).
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Sterling (925) silver trades near ₹97–₹110/g depending on city and market rates.
This makes silver jewellery both aspirational and affordable—especially sterling pieces like earrings, pendants, and bracelets.
Hallmarks: How to Tell Real 925 Silver
When shopping, look for these indicators:
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A "925" stamp or "Sterling Silver" engraving—the universal purity mark
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A BIS hallmark, especially visible on certified silver sold in India.
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Expert advice recommends testing with a magnet (real silver isn’t magnetic), polish residue test, or ice-melting test—all easy ways to confirm authenticity at home.
Wondering how to check if your silver jewellery is real? Explore our detailed guide: Is Your Silver Jewellery Real? Here's How to Check Purity Easily — discover easy at-home tests, signs of authentic 925 silver, and what to avoid when buying.
Why Many Prefer Sterling Over Fine Jewellery
While fine jewellery made of solid gold or pure silver has investment value, 925 silver wins on daily practicality:
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It’s affordable, yet gives that classic sheen.
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It’s stylish and modern, fitting into minimalist, boho, or western wardrobes.
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It’s easier to maintain—tarnish happens, yes, but it can be cleaned and polished; plating doesn’t recover like solid silver does.
Sterling Silver vs Demi-Fine Jewellery: What’s the Difference?
Many demi-fine jewellery pieces use a base of sterling silver or stainless steel with gold plating for a luxurious finish. Some may even use solid 925 silver to deliver hypoallergenic, anti-tarnish options.
For example, at Tvayi we offer demi-fine products in sterling silver that retain anti-tarnish finish while offering that pure silver foundation. Explore our demi-fine silver collection here for elegant designs you can wear daily.
Caring for Your Sterling Silver Jewellery
Taking good care of 925 silver means it stays shiny and lasts decades:
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Store in dry, airtight pouches—minimizes oxidation
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Avoid water, perfume, and chemicals, especially chlorine
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Wipe gently after wear with a soft cloth to remove oils
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Use mild cleaning solutions or silver polishing cloths
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Do not use ultrasonic cleaners or abrasive scrubbing unless recommended. Want your silver pieces to shine for years? Explore our “How to Care for Jewellery” guide to keep your 925 silver sparkling like new — it’s easier than you think!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Below are 20 FAQs written using the exact search-friendly pattern “925 silver” in each question and answer:
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925 silver: What is it?
925 silver refers to sterling silver alloy made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like copper. -
925 silver: Why is it popular for jewellery?
Because it is durable, affordable, looks shiny, and is safe for everyday wear. -
925 silver: How much is it in India?
As of August 2025, sterling silver trades at roughly ₹97 to ₹110 per gram in India. -
925 silver: How to check if it's real?
Look for “925” or “Sterling” stamp, check for BIS hallmark, use magnet or polish tests. -
925 silver: Does it tarnish?
Yes, but tarnish can be removed with gentle cleaning; it maintains luster better than plated silver. -
925 silver: Can I swim or shower with it?
It’s best to remove before exposure to water, chlorine, or perfumes to preserve the shine. -
925 silver: Is it hypoallergenic?
Yes, it is skin-safe, nickel-free, and suitable for sensitive skin. -
925 silver: How to polish it at home?
Use a silver polishing cloth or mild soap and water; gently dry. -
925 silver: Is it better than silver-plated?
Yes. Unlike silver-plated, it has lasting purity and can be polished repeatedly. -
925 silver: Can kids wear it?
Yes, it is lightweight, safe, and durable enough for children’s wear. -
925 silver: Is it good for daily wear?
Absolutely—its durability and shine make it perfect for everyday earrings, rings, chains. -
925 silver: Does it have resale value?
It holds some value based on silver content, but its main value is aesthetic and wearable. -
925 silver: Can I gift it?
Yes—a popular choice for gifting thanks to its timeless look and hypoallergenic nature. -
925 silver: How is it different from fine silver?
Fine silver is 99.9% pure but soft; 925 silver sacrifices some purity for strength and durability. -
925 silver: What hallmark is required in India?
BIS hallmark certifies quality; look for tested purity stamps on silver jewellery. -
925 silver: Where can I buy online in India?
From trusted brands like Tvayi, Amazon India, Flipkart, Palmonas, and GIVA. -
925 silver: Is it suitable for rings and earrings?
Yes—especially because it’s metal-strong and tarnish-resistant with proper care. -
925 silver: Can I wear in summer?
Yes, but wipe after use since sweat can accelerate tarnish. -
925 silver: How long does it last?
With care, sterling silver pieces can last decades without losing shine. -
925 silver: Why choose it over fine or demi-fine?
It offers a balance of quality, affordability, durability, and hypoallergenic wear.
In Summary
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925 sterling silver is the gold standard for everyday silver jewellery—92.5% pure silver alloyed to strengthen it.
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In India today, sterling sells at approximately ₹100–₹110/g—affordable for fine-quality jewellery.
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It's durable, hypoallergenic, easily maintained, and versatile in styles.
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Always check for “925” stamping or BIS hallmark to ensure authenticity.
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Proper care ensures your silver jewellery stays gleaming for years.
If you're looking for anti‑tarnish pieces in sterling silver, check out Tvayi’s collection that combines durability with demi-fine design elegance. Each piece is crafted for Indian skin and style.