SILVER STANDARDS AROUND THE GLOBE

As stated previously, sterling silver is 92.5% silver.  This is the U.S. silver standard. Common other standards include:

• Coin Silver:  The U.S. standard for coins is 90% silver and 10% copper.

• Sterling Silver:    This describes any piece containing at least 92.5% silver

• Mexican Silver: The standard in Mexico is 95% silver and 5% other metals typically copper.

• Britannia Silver: Britannia silver has no less than 958.4 parts per 1000 parts and no more than 41.6 parts per 1000 parts of copper. This silver quality is marked in Ireland and the United Kingdom as 958.

• Fine Silver: Fine silver is 999 parts per 1000 part silver.   This purity level is found in Silver Bullion Bars.

THE SILVER MARKING

Silver jewelry and other silver items are often marked with symbols to indicate their purity level.  Most sterling silver is marked with a small  " 925 " usually imprinted or hammered on the piece in an inconspicuous place.

Larger pieces may be given a " Sterling " impression as well.