If you’re shopping for silver jewelry, you’ve likely seen both terms—S925 and sterling silver. Are they different? Or simply two names for the same metal? To help you make confident choices, here’s a clear guide to S925 vs Sterling Silver in five key areas, with insights into why OBY Jewelry chooses S925 for sustainable fine jewelry.
What Is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is one of the most beloved metals in jewelry. Pure silver (also called fine silver, 99.9% purity) is too soft for everyday wear, so jewelers mix it with a small percentage of alloy metals. The result? Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% alloys, usually copper. This composition gives jewelry strength while keeping the radiant shine of silver.
For centuries, sterling silver has been used in coins, cutlery, and decorative arts—but today, it is prized mainly for jewelry. From dainty chains to bold rings, sterling silver balances beauty with practicality.
What Does S925 Mean?
When you see S925 stamped on a ring, necklace, or earring, it’s a guarantee of quality. The “S” stands for silver, and “925” indicates 92.5% silver purity. It’s not a different material from sterling silver—it’s the official hallmark that certifies the piece meets the sterling standard.
This hallmark reassures customers that their jewelry is authentic silver, not plated brass or mystery alloys. At OBY, all our sterling silver pieces carry this assurance.
History & Standards
The sterling silver standard dates back to 12th-century England and became the benchmark for trade and craftsmanship. Over time, other regions adopted similar standards, with “925” becoming the global symbol for fine-quality silver jewelry.
Today, S925 vs Sterling Silver is mainly a matter of terminology: Western markets often describe the material as “sterling silver,” while Asian markets frequently use “S925.” Both terms point to the same trusted standard.
Appearance, Durability & Care
Sterling silver has a natural white brilliance, slightly warmer than platinum or white gold. It is durable enough for daily wear but, like all silver, can tarnish over time when exposed to air and moisture. Fortunately, tarnish is only surface-level and easy to polish away.
- Appearance: Bright white luster that complements any gemstone, from lab-grown diamonds to emeralds.
- Durability: Strong enough for rings, chains, earrings, and bracelets; softer than steel but gentler on skin.
- Care tips: Store in soft pouches, avoid harsh chemicals, and clean with a silver polishing cloth. For extra protection, many OBY pieces feature 18k gold vermeil over S925 silver.
Why OBY Uses Recycled S925
At OBY Jewelry, we choose recycled S925 sterling silver as the foundation of our designs. This approach reduces the environmental impact of mining while maintaining the same beauty and durability as newly mined silver.
We combine S925 with lab-grown diamonds and ethically sourced gemstones to create jewelry that shines with meaning. Whether finished in polished silver or plated in 18k gold vermeil, every piece reflects our philosophy of eco-friendly luxury.
OBY Favorites in S925
- Diamond Sparkle Textured Wave Ring — A wave-inspired design with a sustainable diamond for timeless shine.
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Shimmer Paperclip Chain —— is a sophisticated and stylish piece of jewelry that showcases the elegance of Italian craftsmanship. This necklace features a unique paperclip patchwork design with slender links creating a modern and striking look.
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Chic-curve Hoop Earrings —— Crafted from recycled sterling silver and gold-plated, these lightweight hoop earrings gently fit your ear.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is S925 different from sterling silver?
No. S925 is the hallmark for sterling silver—both mean 92.5% pure silver alloyed for strength.
Will S925 tarnish?
Yes, all sterling silver can tarnish, but it’s easy to polish and restore its natural shine.
Is recycled S925 as durable as mined sterling?
Yes. Recycled S925 has the same composition and strength, with the added benefit of lower environmental impact.
Final Thoughts
When comparing S925 vs Sterling Silver, the difference lies in terminology, not quality. Both represent the same trusted alloy. At OBY Jewelry, our recycled S925 silver designs—paired with lab-grown diamonds and sustainable finishes—offer jewelry that is timeless, ethical, and radiant for years to come.
Shimmer Paperclip Chain
