What Is Sterling Silver? Understanding Its Value and Purity

When it comes to silver jewelry, flatware, and antiques, one term you’ll see often is “Sterling Silver.” But what exactly does that mean? Is it pure silver? How does it compare to coins or bullion?

At Houston TX Coins, we help customers every day understand what kind of silver they have—and whether it’s worth selling, appraising, or keeping. Here’s a breakdown of what makes sterling silver special and how to tell if your items are the real deal.

What Is Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver is an alloy—a blend of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper.

Pure silver (also called “fine silver” or “.999 silver”) is too soft for most everyday uses. By mixing in a small percentage of another metal, manufacturers make it stronger and more durable, perfect for items like:

• Jewelry (rings, necklaces, bracelets)

• Silverware and serving sets

• Decorative trays and candlesticks

• Antique items and collectibles

You’ll often see “.925” stamped on genuine sterling silver, representing its 92.5% silver content.

How to Identify Sterling Silver

You can check a few key features to tell if something is real sterling:

1. Look for Hallmarks:
   Common stamps include “.925,” “Sterling,” “Ster,” or country-specific marks (like a lion passant on English silver).

2. Check the Color and Shine:
   Sterling silver has a soft, warm shine. If it looks too gray, dull, or brassy, it might be plated or another metal.

3. Magnet Test:
   Silver is not magnetic. If a magnet sticks to your piece, it’s not solid sterling.

4. Tarnish:
   Sterling silver darkens over time due to oxidation. This is normal—and can often be polished away easily.

5. Professional Appraisal:
   When in doubt, have your silver tested by a professional. At Houston TX Coins, we use safe, accurate methods to verify purity and authenticity.

Is Sterling Silver Valuable?

Yes—but its value depends on both metal content and craftsmanship.

• For scrap or melt value: The price is based on silver’s current market price and the weight of pure silver in your item.

• For collectible or antique value: Certain makers, patterns, or vintage pieces can be worth far more than just their silver weight.

Examples of high-demand sterling brands include Tiffany & Co., Gorham, Reed & Barton, and Wallace.

Selling Sterling Silver in Houston, TX

At Houston TX Coins, we buy all types of sterling silver, including:

• Silver flatware sets and serving pieces

• Sterling jewelry (modern and vintage)

• Broken or outdated pieces

• Sterling coins, medals, and collectibles

We’ll examine your silver, determine its purity and weight, and give you a fair, no-pressure offer based on both metal and collectible value.

📍 Book a Visit with us in Kingwood or schedule an in-home or office appraisal anywhere in the Greater Houston area.
💬 Call, text, or email Houston TX Coins today to learn what your sterling silver is worth—whether it’s old jewelry, family silverware, or a full estate collection.