The difference between 925 sterling silver and nickel silver
A detailed comparison of composition, properties and value
Although both materials are used in jewelry and cutlery production and may appear similar when polished, they are fundamentally different alloys with vastly different properties, values, and care requirements. Understanding this difference is crucial for purchasing decisions and the proper care of each item.
1. 925 Sterling Silver (Genuine Silver)
A. Composition and Definition
- Silver content: Sterling silver must consist of at least 92.5% pure silver (Ag) by weight.
- Alloy additive: The remaining 7.5 percent by weight usually consists of copper (Cu) to harden the material.
- Hallmark (stamp): Genuine sterling silver objects usually bear the hallmark "925".
B. Properties and value
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Value | High. The value is based directly on the precious metal it contains. |
| shine | Intense, bright and deep metallic shine. |
| Tarnishing (oxidation) | Yes. It reacts with hydrogen sulfide in the air and forms a dark layer (silver sulfide). |
| use | High-quality jewelry, cutlery, decorative valuables. |
2. Nickel silver (German silver, Alpaca)
A. Composition and Definition
- Silver content: 0 percent by weight (contains no real silver).
- Composition: An alloy of copper (Cu), nickel (Ni) and zinc (Zn).
- Hallmark (stamp): Often no precious metal hallmark, sometimes marked "Alpaca" or "German Silver".
B. Properties and value
| Characteristic | Description |
|---|---|
| Value | Low value. The value lies in the material, not the precious metal. |
| hardness | High. Very hard and resistant to abrasion. |
| Tarnishing (oxidation) | Hardly. It doesn't tarnish like silver, it can only become slightly dull. |
| Allergy potential | Medium to high (due to the nickel content). |
3. The main difference at a glance
| criterion | 925 sterling silver | Nickel silver |
|---|---|---|
| precious metal content | Yes (92.5% silver) | No (0% silver) |
| Main components | silver and copper | copper, nickel and zinc |
| Value | High (precious metal value) | Low (material value) |
| Starting | Yes, dark patina | It hardly stays light for long. |
Conclusion
925 sterling silver is a precious metal with high intrinsic value that requires specific care to prevent or reverse tarnishing. It is the choice for high-quality fine jewelry and classic tableware.
Nickel silver is a base metal alloy of copper, nickel, and zinc. It is harder, more durable, and does not tarnish like silver. It represents a cost-effective and low-maintenance alternative, but has no intrinsic precious metal value and poses a risk of nickel allergies. Always check for hallmarks when purchasing!
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