How to Tell If a Piece of Jewelry Is Real Sterling Silver (925)
- Tarannà Joyas
- May 17
- 2 min read
Sterling silver (also known as 925 silver) is one of the most valued materials in jewelry. Not just for its shine and elegance, but also for its durability and quality. But how can you tell if a piece is truly made of 925 silver and not just a lookalike?Here are some simple ways to recognize if it is real —with your eyes and your instincts 💍
🔍 1. What does “925” mean?
Sterling silver is made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. That small percentage gives it the strength needed to become wearable jewelry.
👉 If you see a “925” stamp, it usually means the piece follows this international standard, and therefore it is real sterling silver.
🪪 2. The stamp or hallmark
Most silver jewelry will have a tiny “925” marking—on the clasp, inside a ring, or in an inconspicuous spot. ⚠️ But beware: just because it’s stamped doesn’t mean it’s real. Some fake pieces have false hallmarks. That’s why you need more signs…
🧲 3. Is it magnetic?
Silver is not magnetic. If your jewelry sticks to a magnet, it’s probably not silver.Still, if it doesn’t stick, that doesn’t guarantee it is—but at least it’s not steel or another fake.
🧼 4. The color and how it wears over time
Real silver has a soft white shine, not overly metallic.
Over time, it may tarnish slightly—that’s normal.
But it should never peel or reveal a different color underneath. If it does, it’s likely just a plated piece.
🔥 5. The polishing cloth test
Try rubbing it with a white cloth or silver polishing cloth.Real silver often leaves a black or gray mark—that’s oxidation coming off, and it’s totally normal.
🧪 6. Want to be 100% sure?
You can do an acid test (available in jewelry stores or kits), or ask a professional. At Tarannà, all our pieces marked as 925 have been verified and crafted with noble metals—no nickel, no tricks.
💎 Conclusion:
Sterling silver is a lifelong companion—but it’s important to recognize it.Look at the shine, the feel, the weight… and above all, trust where you buy it.If in doubt, ask. Transparency is the best guarantee.
Want us to check one of your pieces?
Come by our workshop in El Born (Barcelona) or drop us a message. We love talking about metals with a story ✨
