- More Sterling Silver Findings
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- Sterling Silver Beads & Bead Caps
- Sterling Silver Charms & Links
- Sterling Silver Earring Findings
Sterling Silver: Defining Quality
- Sterling silver is defined as a metal alloy (blend) containing at least 92.5% silver. The most common sterling alloy is 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper.
- Tarnish-resistant Argentium silver findings and wire are 93.5% - 94% silver, and the remaining 6 - 6.5% is a combination of copper and germanium. This patented silver alloy is tarnish-resistant, with the tarnish resistance actually increasing over time! Germanium atoms in the alloy migrate to the surface, allowing the protective germanium oxide layer to regenerate. Argentium silver doesn't develop firescale, which makes its production cleaner for the environment.
- Fine silver, sometimes stamped ".999", is 99.9% pure silver, which means it is softer and more malleable than sterling. Fine silver can be fused! (Sterling silver requires solder; fine silver can be joined with just heat, no solder required.)
Sterling components and jewelry made in the USA are often stamped "sterling." Goods made for international trade are often marked "925" indicating the 92.5% fineness. "Coin" silver is used in some countries and could be marked "900" or "800" depending on fineness.
Other possible markings are less clear. "Mexican Silver," "German Silver," "Indian Silver," "Montana Silver" and simply "silver" do not guarantee any silver content. "German Silver," "Alpacca," and "Alpaca" are merely other names for the alloy of copper, nickel and zinc usually called "nickel silver." Despite the name, nickel silver contains no silver.
In many countries, precious metal must be stamped with a quality mark such as "925" for sterling. Some countries require jewelry made of precious metal be submitted to a governmental assay office for destructive testing before being marked and sold.
Sterling Silver is very easy to test. Silver-plated brass, nickel silver or low quality silver alloys will turn green when a drop of nitric acid is applied, because of the high copper content. Sterling will turn a creamy color. When testing suspect goods, a small file can be used to cut through any plating or lacquer in a discreet area on the item.
In the USA, The National Gold and Silver Marketing Act does not require precious metals to be marked with quality. However, if a quality mark is used, the mark must be accompanied by a manufacturer's hallmark that is a registered trademark or the name of the manufacturer. If there is ever a question about the content of a piece of jewelry, the manufacturer can be traced using the hallmark stamped on the piece. This accountability is particularly important in gold jewelry. A devious manufacturer could mark a piece 18kt when, in fact, it was 10kt and worth one-third less on gold content alone.
For many reasons, not all silver jewelry is marked. For one thing, registering a trademark costs over $1,000. Makers may choose to not spend so much money for a formal hallmark. Small-time artists and Native American silversmiths rarely trademark their work. Furthermore, the sizes or designs of some pieces do not lend themselves to quality markings. Findings and components, for example are often not quality stamped. Users of finished jewelry, however, can choose to attach a mark to the finished piece (for example on a chain tab). Update: US law now does allow the maker's name in place of a formally registered trademark or hallmark! This satisfies the accountability at the heart of the US stamping act.
In summary
- Sterling silver must be at least 92.5% silver.
- US law does not require precious metal to be marked with a quality stamp.
- Some European countries do require marking. Many tourists in the US (and international online shoppers) will question goods sold without markings that indicate precious-metal quality.
- US law requires a maker's mark in the form of a hallmark or registered trademark in addition to the quality mark if the goods are quality marked. The name of the artist or manufacturer may now be used for this.
Main Sources of Information on Sterling Silver
- Federal Trade Commission, National Gold and Silver Marketing Act
- US House of Representatives document 15 USC 297
- Jeweler's Vigilance Committee
- Manufacturing Jewelers and Silversmiths of America
- Jewelry: Concepts and Technology, reference book by Oppi Untracht
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Sterling Silver 4mm Round Bead, Silicone-Lined (Each)
$0.94Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this sterling silver item is even better! This item is made from environmentally responsible green silver. See Related Products links (below) for similar items and additional... -
Sterling Silver Square Charm with Water and Sky (Each)
$3.17All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver French Hook Earring Wires, Economy (12 Pieces)
$7.17All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Leverback Ear Wire, Plain (1 pair)
$4.94All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Earring Backs, Butterfly Nut - Lightweight (12 Pieces)
$2.29All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) to see all styles of earring backs on one page -- plus, the main Earring Backs category includes tips on picking the best... -
Sterling Silver Earring Back, Medium Weight Butterfly Nut (12 Pieces)
$3.85See Related Products links (below) to see all styles of earring backs on one page -- plus, the main Earring Backs category includes tips on picking the best style of earring backs for your projects, and how to adjust poorly fitting earring nuts. Green... -
Sterling Silver Lobster Clasp, 10mm (Each)
$1.27All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
JBB Findings Sterling Silver Center-Crimp Tube with Loop, 3.5mm I.D. (Each)
JBB$1.831. You'll need: Crimp ends, cording, round-nose pliers, and (optional) some glue. 2. Add a dab of glue to the cording; slide the crimp-end over the cording. 3. Firmly grip the pliers to flatten the center section of the crimp. See... -
Sterling Silver Ear Thread, 4", Wavy Bars (pair)
$5.31A quick way to make linear earrings! Attach dangles, thread beads on, or leave plain. Use post to penetrate piercing, then pull through. Available in Sterling Silver and Vermeil. Select styles available in both original... -
Sterling Silver Snowflake Charm, 19x13x1mm (Each)
$4.35Matching snowflake connector also available! All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with... -
Sterling Silver Bezel Cup, Round, 10mm, 1 Loop (Each)
$3.85Which Glue is Best? For the most durable bond, we almost always recommend epoxies rather than other types of glue, but it depends on a few factors... Check out the options, plus tips for successful glue bonds, on our Adhesives and Jewelry Glues page. See... -
Sterling Silver Tiny Hammered Heart Charm (Each)
$2.09Sterling Silver: Sterling silver, sometimes stamped .925 or simply 925, is an alloy of at least 92.5% silver. The remaining 7.5% is usually copper. All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium-free, lead-free, and meets the EU Nickel Directive... -
Sterling Silver Ear Thread, 5", 2.5mm Closed Jump Ring (pair)
$4.46A quick way to make linear earrings! Attach dangles, thread beads on, or leave plain. Use post to penetrate piercing, then pull through. Available in Sterling Silver and Vermeil. Select styles available in both original... -
Sterling Silver Heart Charm #44-046-53
$3.55All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Beads, Round, 2mm (100 Pieces)
$4.67Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this sterling silver item is even better! This item is made from environmentally responsible green silver. See Related Products links (below) for similar items and additional... -
Sterling Silver Flower Charm, 11x17x2mm (Each)
$4.25All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver French Hook Earring Wires, 14mm Straight Leg (12 Pieces)
$5.99All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jump Ring, Round - 4mm, 20.5-gauge (10 Pieces)
$1.89HINT When you open and close jump rings, twist ends instead of "ovaling" them. This keeps their round shape better, which makes them easier to close securely. Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this... -
Sterling Silver Oval Knot Charm, Cast, 9x21mm (Each)
$7.17All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jump Ring, Round - 3mm, 24-gauge (10 Pieces)
$0.72HINT When you open and close jump rings, twist ends instead of "ovaling" them. This keeps their round shape better, which makes them easier to close securely. Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this... -
Sterling Silver Glue-On Jewelry Bail, Oval, Small (Each)
$5.39Which Glue is Best? For the most durable bond, we almost always recommend epoxies rather than other types of glue, but it depends on a few factors... Check out the options, plus tips for successful glue bonds, on our Adhesives and Jewelry Glues page. See... -
Sterling Silver Plain Wire Stacking Ring, Size 5 (Each)
$2.49Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this sterling silver item is even better! This item is made from environmentally responsible green silver. See Related Products links (below) for similar items and additional... -
Sterling Silver Butterfly Charm, 11x10x2mm (Each)
$2.97All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jewelry Connector, Swirl, 4 Loop (Each)
$3.55All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Spiral Charm (Each)
$4.57All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jewelry Link, Heart, 15mm (Each)
$1.39All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jump Ring, Round - 4mm, 19.5-gauge (10 Pieces)
$2.39HINT When you open and close jump rings, twist ends instead of "ovaling" them. This keeps their round shape better, which makes them easier to close securely. Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this... -
Sterling Silver Celtic Knot Charm, 14x9x1.2mm (Each)
$3.85All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Magnetic Jewelry Clasp, Superior Quality, Button, 4.5mm (Each)
$2.89Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this sterling silver item is even better! This item is made from environmentally responsible green silver. See Related Products links (below) for similar items and additional... -
TierraCast Sterling Silver Angular French Hook with Bead (pair)
TierraCast$3.09All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Finger Ring Blank, Adjustable, Plain (Each)
$12.75Which Glue is Best? For the most durable bond, we almost always recommend epoxies rather than other types of glue, but it depends on a few factors... Check out the options, plus tips for successful glue bonds, on our Adhesives and Jewelry Glues page. See... -
Sterling Silver Jewelry Link, Round, 33mm (Each)
$3.74All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Spring Ring Clasp, 5mm (10 Pieces)
$1.90All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Bezel Cup, Round, 10mm, 2 Loop (Each)
$4.47All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Cable Thimble, Sterling Silver (10 Pieces)
$2.09To Use Wire ProtectorsString cable thimble onto cord.Loop cord back through other side of cable thimble.String clasp onto cord & thimble.Add crimp bead. Crimp securely.Green SilverAll our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this... -
Sterling Silver Jump Ring, Round - 4mm, 22-gauge (10 Pieces)
$1.49HINT When you open and close jump rings, twist ends instead of "ovaling" them. This keeps their round shape better, which makes them easier to close securely. Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this... -
Sterling Silver Bezel Cup, Round, 12mm, 1-Loop (Each)
$4.47Which Glue is Best? For the most durable bond, we almost always recommend epoxies rather than other types of glue, but it depends on a few factors... Check out the options, plus tips for successful glue bonds, on our Adhesives and Jewelry Glues page. See... -
Sterling Silver Disk Charm, 9.3mm (Each)
$4.15Sterling Silver: Sterling silver, sometimes stamped .925 or simply 925, is an alloy of at least 92.5% silver. The remaining 7.5% is usually copper. All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium-free, lead-free, and meets the EU Nickel Directive... -
Sterling Silver Bead, Keishi-Style, Center-Drilled, 10mm (Each)
$3.95All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Clasp, Double Push Lobster, 12mm (Each)
$1.44All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Bezel Cup, Round, 15mm, 1 Loop (Each)
$6.29Which Glue is Best? For the most durable bond, we almost always recommend epoxies rather than other types of glue, but it depends on a few factors... Check out the options, plus tips for successful glue bonds, on our Adhesives and Jewelry Glues page. See... -
Sterling Silver Tiny Key Charm (Each)
$1.19All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Textured Artsy Heart Charm (Each)
$1.49All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Glue-On Jewelry Bail, Round, 7mm (Each)
$2.59All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jewelry Connector, Square Spiral (Each)
$3.55All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Bezel Cup, Oval, 20x15mm, 1 Loop (Each)
$6.69All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Tiny Crescent Moon Bead (Each)
$3.65Sterling Silver: Sterling silver, sometimes stamped .925 or simply 925, is an alloy of at least 92.5% silver. The remaining 7.5% is usually copper. All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium-free, lead-free, and meets the EU Nickel Directive... -
Sterling Silver Jewelry Link, Round, 20mm (Each)
$2.03All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
JBB Findings Sterling Silver Bead, Nugget, 9x7x6mm (Each)
JBB$2.38All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jewelry Connector, Wire Twist (Each)
$2.19All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jump Ring, Round - 5mm, 18-gauge (10 Pieces)
$3.85HINT When you open and close jump rings, twist ends instead of "ovaling" them. This keeps their round shape better, which makes them easier to close securely. Green Silver All our sterling silver items are nickel free. And this... -
Sterling Silver Crimp Tube, 2x1mm, "Size 2" (gross)
$7.47Crimp beads and crimp tubes are often paired with either wire protectors or bullion, and may also be topped with crimp covers. Not sure which size of crimp tube works best with which sizes of beading wire cable? See size chart. See Related Products... -
JBB Findings Sterling Silver Briolette Cap, Scalloped (Each)
JBB$2.06All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Heart Post Earring with Loop (1 Pair)
$8.77All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Square Connector with Spiral Heart - 2 Loops (Each)
$6.99All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
11x9mm Sterling Silver Star of David Charm (Each)
$1.46All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
JBB Findings Sterling Silver Charm, Jewelry Connector, Small (Each)
JBB$0.54All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Bezel Cup, Oval, 12x10mm, 1 Loop (Each)
$3.95All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Ear Thread, 3", Box and Cable Chain (pair)
$4.89A quick way to make linear earrings! Attach dangles, thread beads on, or leave plain. Use post to penetrate piercing, then pull through. Available in Sterling Silver and Vermeil. Select styles available in both original... -
Sterling Silver Tiny Skeleton Key Charm (Each)
$2.59All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Lily of the Valley Swirl Jewelry Connector, 2 Loop (Each)
$12.15All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these... -
Sterling Silver Jewelry Link, Round, 14mm (Each)
$1.48All of our sterling silver is nickel-free, cadmium free and meets the EU Nickel Directive. See Related Products links (below) for similar items, additional jewelry-making supplies that are often used with this item, and general information about these...Qty in Cart: