What is the highest quality silver?

The highest quality silver used in jewelry is known as fine silver, also referred to as pure silver. Here’s what sets it apart:

• Purity: Fine silver has a purity of 99.9%, meaning it contains 99.9% pure silver and only 0.1% trace elements. This high level of purity gives fine silver its brilliant luster and makes it less prone to tarnishing compared to lower-purity silver alloys.

• Softness: Due to its high purity, fine silver is relatively soft and malleable. While this makes it ideal for intricate designs and fine jewelry, it can also make it more susceptible to scratches and dents, which is why it’s often used in pieces that won’t be subjected to heavy wear.

• Sterling Silver: For more durable jewelry, sterling silver is commonly used. Sterling silver is an alloy composed of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, usually copper. This combination increases the strength and durability of the silver while maintaining a high-quality appearance. Sterling silver is marked with a “925” stamp to indicate its composition.

• Plated Silver: To enhance durability and appearance, sterling silver is often plated with a thin layer of rhodium or gold. Rhodium plating adds a reflective, tarnish-resistant finish, while gold plating provides a luxurious look while leveraging the strength of sterling silver.

Fine silver is the highest quality due to its purity, but sterling silver is often preferred for everyday jewelry due to its enhanced durability and similar aesthetic appeal.

For a selection of high-quality silver jewelry, visit Ferravanti's Jewelry Collection.