What is sterling silver?

What is sterling silver? Sterling silver, a silver alloy containing 92.5% silver, has found its place in almost every household. Sterling silver is a noble metal alloy that adorns our dining tables, as it is used to make cutlery. It is also used to create other decorative objects. Naturally, it is also used to mint silver coins, which often become valuable collectibles.

What makes silver 'sterling'?

Sterling silver is a metal that contains 92.5% silver and a 7.5% mix of other metals. That’s why you’ll often see the mark ‘925’ subtly stamped on your sterling silver jewelry. Many items made of sterling silver are also marked with additional hallmarks and emblems to indicate the origin and purity of the metal.

Identification and hallmarks of sterling silver

Hallmarks, also known as assayer’s marks, provide insight into the quality of the silver. The ‘925’ mark is one such hallmark. It also indicates the country where the silver was manufactured. Silver made in Ireland often bears the word ‘Hibernia’, the ancient Latin name for the island. French silver is commonly marked with an image of the goddess Minerva.

Your silver may also feature a maker’s mark, a purity indicator, or other symbols. Traditional hallmarks on sterling silver help determine the age, origin, and authenticity of the silver.

The use of sterling silver through the ages

Sterling silver has a long history as a luxurious material. As early as Roman times, silver was used to make tableware, jewelry, and coins—mainly for the elite.

During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, silverware grew in popularity among European royals and wealthy citizens, who displayed their wealth with silver cups, candlesticks, and serving trays. Around the 12th century, England began standardizing silver quality, which led to the official sterling hallmark.

In the 18th and 19th centuries, sterling silver became popular for crafting cutlery, tea sets, and ornate household items. Artists also used the precious metal for engraving, reliefs, and silversmithing.

Today, sterling silver remains beloved for its durability, intrinsic value, and timeless look—both in households and in modern art and design.

Sales, value, and trends in sterling silver

If you’re selling silver, the buyer will likely only pay for the value of the pure silver—not the weight of the other metals. So when selling your sterling silver, expect a price slightly below the spot price of pure silver.

Several factors influence the demand and price of silver, including regional economic conditions and the global economy. During times of market unrest or rising inflation, interest in precious metals—sterling silver included—tends to increase.

Sterling silver has been popular for decades. Special limited-edition coin sets are produced from it, such as the Franklin Mint series featuring silver bars with images of historic sailing ships. Thanks to the high silver content and collectible value, these pieces are loved by both investors and collectors.

Sterling silver is also in demand on the secondhand market. The combination of intrinsic silver value and cultural or historical significance makes it appealing to a broad audience. It’s a stable choice for those looking to benefit from consistent value.

Sterling silver as an asset: practical and emotional

Sterling silver holds not only financial value. Many silver coins and bars also carry a story—as heirlooms or as symbols of craftsmanship and tradition. They combine functional beauty with tangible security and remain cherished by collectors and investors alike.

Want to invest in high-quality silver coins or bars? Explore the current range at The Silver Mountain. Have questions? Contact us.

Disclaimer: The Silver Mountain does not provide investment advice and this article should not be considered as such. Past performance is no guarantee of future results.