Pure silver, also known as fine silver, is a precious metal that is 99.9% pure. It is relatively soft and malleable, making it unsuitable for jewelry that is worn frequently, as it can easily scratch and deform. Pure silver is often used for decorative objects or keepsakes, such as picture frames or commemorative coins.
Sterling silver, on the other hand, is an alloy made of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. The addition of copper makes sterling silver more durable and resistant to scratches and dents, while still maintaining its luster and beauty. Sterling silver is a popular choice for jewelry and flatware because of its strength and durability.
Silver-plated jewelry is made of a base metal, such as copper, that is coated with a layer of silver. The thickness of the silver coating can vary, but it is generally much thinner than the layer of sterling silver used in solid silver jewelry. Silver-plated jewelry is often less expensive than sterling silver, but it is also less durable and may wear down or tarnish more quickly over time.
