Have you ever wondered why that stunning piece of silver jewellery carries a mysterious ‘925’ stamp? Let’s explore the world of sterling silver — a precious metal that has captivated hearts for centuries.
A Legacy Forged in Time
Sterling silver’s story begins in 13th century England, where it quickly became the benchmark for silver objects. King Edward I established the first legal definition of sterling silver in 1275. Fast forward to today, and this alloy continues to shine in the world of fine jewellery.
What Does 925 Mean?
The ‘925’ stamp tells you exactly what’s in your jewellery. Sterling silver is a precious metal alloy combining 92.5% pure silver with 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This blend creates the ideal balance between beauty and durability.
Pure silver (99.9% silver content) is too soft for everyday jewellery — it bends, scratches, and loses its shape. Sterling silver solves this, offering both the lustrous shine of fine silver and the resilience needed for pieces you can actually wear.
Decoding the Hallmarks: Your Guide to Authenticity
In the UK, hallmarking is a legal requirement for precious metal jewellery sold above a certain weight. Those tiny marks on your silver aren’t just decorative — they’re your guarantee of quality. Here’s what to look for:
- 925 stamp — confirms 92.5% silver content
- Maker’s mark — identifies who crafted the piece
- Assay office mark — shows where it was tested and certified (London’s is a leopard’s head)
- Date letter — reveals the year it was hallmarked
- Traditional fineness symbols — England’s lion passant, Scotland’s thistle, Ireland’s crowned harp
A genuine UK hallmarked piece will carry all of these marks. At Nude Jewellery, every piece is hallmarked at the London Assay Office — your assurance that what you’re buying is exactly what it says it is.
Why Jewellery Lovers Choose Sterling Silver
Sterling silver isn’t just beautiful — it’s practical. It resists scratches better than pure silver, lends itself to intricate and sculptural designs, and sits at a more accessible price point than gold or platinum without compromising on quality. For those with sensitive skin, it’s also a naturally hypoallergenic choice.
Caring for Your Sterling Silver
With the right care, sterling silver lasts a lifetime. Store pieces in a cool, dry place — ideally in an airtight bag or your Nude Jewellery box — to slow tarnishing. Polish gently with a soft cloth, and avoid contact with harsh chemicals, perfumes, and chlorine. To clean, a gentle soak in warm soapy water with a very soft brush is all you need.
Sterling Silver at Nude Jewellery
Our London studio works with sterling silver alongside 18ct recycled gold, creating pieces that range from delicate everyday rings to bold sculptural statement jewellery. Each piece is handcrafted and hallmarked, built to be worn and loved for years.
SHOP STERLING SILVER