Silver Alloy Types

 

SILVER  ALLOY

Like gold, pure silver is soft and easily damaged. Therefore, jewelry makers often alloy silver with harder metals to improve its durability. With silver alloys, they can make beautiful, strong pieces suitable for daily wear.

Sterling Silver (925 PPT)

The most common silver alloy is sterling silver. Sterling silver consists of 92.5% silver. One or more metals comprise the other 7.5%. Often, copper makes up a substantial portion of that 7.5%, because it increases the alloy’s hardness.

Mexican Silver (950 PPT)

The term “Mexican silver” refers to silver used as currency in Mexico, typically comprised of 95% silver and 5% copper. This alloy sees more use as currency than in jewelry. Even silver jewelry made in Mexico is more commonly crafted from sterling silver.

Coin Silver (900 PPT)

In the United States, coin silver contains 90% silver and 10% copper. You don’t usually see coin silver used in jewelry.

Britannia Silver (958 PPT)

Britannia silver contains a minimum of 95.84% silver, making it a more valuable alloy than sterling. This alloy does, rarely, see some jewelry use.

South American Silver (800 PPT)

You’ll find a variety of silver alloys used worldwide. For example, a South American alloy, made of 80% silver, doesn’t tarnish.