If you're on the hunt for that perfect piece of silver jewelry, you've probably wondered: What is the best silver for jewelry? With so many types of silver out there, it can be tough to know what's real, what's durable, and what’s worth your money. At Blake Brothers, we’ve been in the silver game since our establishment in 1974, so we know what to look for. In this post, we’ll break it all down so you can shop smart and wear your silver with confidence.
What Makes Silver a Popular Choice for Jewelry?
Silver has been used in jewelry for thousands of years. It's timeless, elegant, and versatile enough to suit everything from simple studs to chunky chains. Unlike some other metals, silver has a bright, clean look that never goes out of style. It's also more affordable than gold or platinum, making it perfect for anyone who wants quality without breaking the bank. Silver is especially popular for everyday jewelry like rings, earrings, and necklaces. It’s easy to match with other metals and styles, whether you're dressing up or keeping things casual. Another reason silver stays on top? Sterling silver is hypoallergenic. While some metals cause irritation for folks with sensitive skin, sterling silver is a great choice because it usually doesn't contain nickel. As long as you're getting authentic 925 sterling silver, you're safe from itchy wrists or sore earlobes.
What Is the Best Silver for Jewelry?
All factors considered, the best silver for jewelry is 925 sterling silver. It’s strong enough to handle everyday use, beautiful enough for special occasions, and easy to polish back to a like-new shine. 925 sterling silver also plays nicely with gemstones and other metals, making it the go-to choice for everything from wedding bands to wholesale hoop earrings. At Blake Brothers, most of our silver pieces are made from 925 sterling silver because it consistently delivers the quality our customers can trust. It’s also a great option for custom work. Jewelers love working with sterling silver because it’s malleable enough to shape but strong enough to hold its form. That means intricate designs and engravings are much easier to pull off.
What is Sterling Silver Made Of?
If you've ever looked at silver jewelry and seen "925" stamped somewhere, you’ve already run into sterling silver. So, what is sterling silver made of? Sterling silver is an alloy made up of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. That’s where the “925” comes from. The added metal makes the silver stronger and more durable. Pure silver (also called fine silver) is soft and bends easily, which is why it’s not typically used for everyday wear. Sterling silver gives you the look and feel of silver with the strength to handle real-life use. And here's a fun fact: the use of 925 sterling silver dates back to 12th-century England, where it was the legal standard for silver coinage. That level of consistency and trust is why it’s still used today.
What Does 925 on Jewelry Mean?
That little "925" stamped on your silver piece? It's not just for decoration. It means your item is made of 925 sterling silver, which is the industry standard for high-quality silver jewelry. So if you’re wondering what 925 on jewelry means, it’s basically a promise of quality. This stamp is your best friend when shopping for silver, especially online or in wholesale quantities. If it doesn’t say 925, chances are it’s not sterling silver. Pro tip: Always check the inside of rings, clasps on necklaces, or the backs of earrings for this stamp. If you don’t see it, ask before you buy.
Sterling Silver Meaning in Today’s Jewelry World
The sterling silver meaning has evolved, but one thing stays the same: it stands for quality. In the past, sterling silver was a status symbol. Today, it's still a sign that you care about craftsmanship, not just trends. For jewelers and customers alike, sterling silver is the mark of a piece made to be worn, loved, and passed down. In fact, many heirloom pieces passed through families are made from sterling silver. Its longevity and timeless style make it ideal for items meant to be treasured for generations.
Is Sterling Silver Real Silver?
A lot of folks ask us if sterling silver is real silver. The answer is yes, sterling silver is definitely real silver. It’s just been mixed with a tiny bit of another metal to make it more wearable and durable. That 92.5% silver content is the real deal. Don’t confuse sterling silver with silver-plated jewelry, which only has a thin layer of silver over another metal. Plated pieces may look good for a while, but tend to wear down and tarnish faster. Another good sign of real sterling silver is the weight. Real silver feels heavier than cheap plated alternatives. If it feels too light for its size, it might not be the real deal.
Sterling Silver vs Silver: What’s the Difference?
Sterling silver vs silver is a common comparison. Pure silver (also called fine silver) is made up of 99.9% silver. It's softer, more malleable, and mostly used in items that won’t be handled a lot, like collectible coins. Sterling silver is tougher and better for daily wear. That’s why jewelry makers prefer it. The difference may be just a few percentage points, but that small bit of added metal makes a huge difference in how your jewelry wears over time. Fine silver can lose its shape easily, especially in rings or bangles. So while it might be appealing for its purity, it’s not very practical unless you plan on keeping it in a box.
How to Tell If Silver Is Real
Not sure if your silver is legit? Here’s how to tell if silver is real:
Look for the “925” stamp
Use a magnet (real silver isn’t magnetic)
Try the rub test: rub it with a soft cloth and check for black marks
Use a silver testing solution or acid test if you’re still unsure
Tap your silver item with a coin or metal object; real silver will give off a high-pitched ring
Or better yet, buy from a trusted source. As a wholesale jeweler in Milford, Blake Brothers guarantees the quality of every piece we sell.
Is 925 Sterling Silver Good?
Short answer? Absolutely. If you’re asking if 925 sterling silver is good, the answer is yes; it’s one of the best options out there for fine jewelry. It offers a great balance of beauty, durability, and affordability. Whether you're shopping for a dainty necklace, a bold ring, or stocking your store with wholesale styles, 925 sterling silver is a smart pick that won’t let you down. It’s also an eco-conscious choice. Silver is recyclable, and many jewelers offer recycled sterling silver options that reduce environmental impact without compromising on quality.
Does 925 Sterling Silver Tarnish?
Here’s a question we hear all the time: Does 925 sterling silver tarnish? Yep, it does, but don’t panic. Tarnish is a natural reaction between silver and air or moisture. The good news? Tarnish isn’t permanent, and it doesn’t mean your jewelry is ruined. A quick polish or silver cleaning cloth will usually get rid of tarnish fast. Plus, you can slow down tarnishing by keeping your pieces in airtight containers or anti-tarnish pouches when you’re not wearing them. Better yet, wear your silver often. Believe it or not, the oils in your skin help prevent tarnish. So that favorite ring of yours? Keep it on. It actually stays cleaner that way.
Does Real Silver Tarnish?
Yes, silver tarnish is a real concern, but it’s totally normal. Even the highest-quality silver will tarnish over time when it’s exposed to air, water, or chemicals. But don’t worry. A quick clean will have it looking shiny and new again. Pro tip: Store your silver jewelry in ziplock bags or a closed jewelry box to cut down on exposure to moisture and air. You can also use chalk, silica gel packets, or anti-tarnish strips inside your jewelry box to absorb moisture and keep your silver looking its best.
Why Sterling Silver Jewelry is a Smart Investment
Choosing sterling silver jewelry means choosing quality. These pieces aren’t just pretty—they’re made to last. With the right care, your sterling silver items can hold their shine for years. Sterling silver is also incredibly flexible in terms of style. You’ll find it in everything from classic tennis bracelets to edgy skull rings. No matter your look, there’s a sterling silver option that fits. Sterling silver also holds resale value. Because it’s a precious metal, it retains some of its worth over time, unlike costume jewelry. This makes it a smarter investment, especially if you're shopping wholesale or stocking up for your retail store.
Final Thoughts on the Best Silver for Jewelry
So, what’s the best silver for jewelry? Hands down, it’s 925 sterling silver. It gives you the beauty of silver without the headache of fragility. It’s strong, affordable, and stylish. Plus, it holds up great over time. If you're looking to stock up on pieces that your customers will love (or just want something special for yourself), you can’t go wrong with sterling silver. And if you're shopping for the best wholesale sterling silver jewelry in the U.S., Blake Brothers has your back. We’re proud to be a trusted name in the silver game, offering everything from statement rings to delicate chains, all in high-quality sterling silver. Still have questions? Give us a shout. Whether you’re starting your own jewelry line or shopping for yourself, we’ll help you find the perfect silver pieces at the right price.
FAQs About the Best Silver for Jewelry
What does 925 on jewelry mean?
It means the piece is made from 92.5% pure silver, which is the standard for sterling silver jewelry.
Is sterling silver real silver?
Yes, sterling silver is real silver that’s been mixed with a small amount of another metal (usually copper) for durability.
Does 925 sterling silver tarnish?
Yes, it can tarnish over time, but it’s easy to clean and polish.
What is sterling silver made of?
Sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper.
Is 925 sterling silver good?
Definitely, it’s the top choice for high-quality silver jewelry.
How can you tell if silver is real?
Look for the 925 stamp, test with a magnet (silver isn’t magnetic), or use a silver testing solution.
What’s the difference between sterling silver vs silver?
Pure silver is 99.9% silver and very soft. Sterling silver is 92.5% silver and much more durable, making it better for jewelry.
Does real silver tarnish?
Yes, even pure silver will tarnish over time. Keep it dry and clean it regularly to keep it looking good.
FAQs About Blake Brothers
What types of jewelry does Blake Brothers specialize in?
We specialize in high-quality sterling silver jewelry, including rings, chains, earrings, pendants, bracelets, and more. Our pieces range from classic to contemporary and are available in bulk for resellers, boutiques, and online stores. We also carry a wide selection of designs featuring cubic zirconia, gemstones, and symbolic motifs.
Do you sell to the public or just wholesale buyers?
We’re a wholesale-only supplier. Blake Brothers focuses on serving business clients like jewelry retailers, boutiques, resellers, and e-commerce sellers. If you're an individual shopper, we recommend purchasing from a retailer that carries our products.
Where is Blake Brothers located?
We’re based in Milford, New Hampshire, and we’ve been supplying sterling silver jewelry since 1974. While our main operations are in New England, we ship across the U.S. and work with retailers nationwide.
Can I visit your showroom in person?
Yes! If you're a verified wholesale buyer, you can schedule a visit to our Milford showroom. It’s a great way to browse our inventory in person and get expert help from our team. Just give us a call to set up an appointment.
Do you offer custom design or private label services?
Yes, we do. Blake Brothers works with many retailers and designers to create private label jewelry lines. Whether you want to engrave your branding, modify an existing design, or develop something completely custom, our team can help you bring your vision to life.
How can I apply for a wholesale account?
Getting started is easy. Just head to our website and fill out our wholesale registration form. Once approved, you’ll get access to wholesale pricing, bulk order options, and new inventory alerts.
What’s the minimum order requirement?
Our minimum wholesale order is $100. This makes it easy for small businesses, first-time buyers, or boutique owners to start building their silver jewelry inventory without a huge upfront investment.
How often do you update your inventory?
We release new styles regularly—often monthly or seasonally. Stay in the loop by subscribing to our newsletter or logging into your wholesale account to view the latest arrivals.
What makes Blake Brothers different from other wholesalers?
Experience, quality, and customer service. We’ve been doing this for 50 years and have built a reputation for reliability, consistency, and high standards. Our sterling silver is always 925, our pricing is competitive, and our customer service team actually picks up the phone when you call.
Can I get assistance picking the right products for my store?
Absolutely. Whether you’re curating a gift collection or building a seasonal display, our staff can help you choose the right pieces based on trends, price points, and customer preferences. Just let us know what you’re looking for.
