Sterling silver is worth the investment. If you are deciding between silver plated and sterling silver jewellery, that is the short answer. But the reasons why matter, so let me explain.
I work exclusively with solid sterling silver and gold filled metals at Lae Jewellery. Not because silver plated pieces look bad, they can look beautiful when new, but because I want every piece I make to last. If you want to understand gold options too, read my guide on gold filled vs gold plated. If you are looking for high-quality sterling silver jewellery that you can wear every day without worrying, understanding this difference will help you choose well.
What Is Silver Plated Jewellery?
Silver plated jewellery starts with a base metal, usually brass or copper, and then has a very thin layer of silver applied to the surface through electroplating. That silver layer is typically less than 0.5 microns thick.
The problem is that this coating wears off over time. Once it does, the base metal underneath is exposed. That is when you start seeing discolouration, tarnishing, and green marks on your skin.
What Is Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is a solid metal alloy made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. The copper gives it strength. Unlike plating, the silver goes all the way through. There is no coating to wear off.
You can identify it by the 925 stamp, which is stamped on most sterling silver pieces.
Side by Side Comparison
| Feature | Silver Plated | Sterling Silver |
|---|---|---|
| Silver content | Thin surface layer only | 92.5% solid silver throughout |
| Durability | Coating wears off within months | Lasts decades with basic care |
| Skin reactions | Common once coating wears | Rare, generally kind to sensitive skin |
| Price | Lower upfront | Higher upfront, better value long term |
| Resale value | Very low | Holds value well |
| Care | Cannot be polished without removing coating | Can be polished and restored repeatedly |
How to Tell Which You Already Own
If you have silver jewellery at home and you are not sure what it is, here are three quick tests:
- Check for a hallmark. Look for a tiny 925 stamp. If you see it, it is sterling silver. Silver plated pieces are sometimes marked EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver) or have no mark at all.
- The weight test. Sterling silver is noticeably heavier than silver plated pieces of the same size. Pick up two similar items and the heavier one is likely solid.
- The tarnish test. Both can tarnish, but sterling silver tarnishes evenly across the whole piece. Silver plated items tend to show patchy discolouration where the coating has worn thin.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is silver plated jewellery worth buying?
It depends on what you need it for. For costume jewellery you will wear a handful of times, it is fine. For everyday pieces or gifts with sentimental value, sterling silver is the better choice because it will last.
How long does silver plating last?
With regular wear, the plating typically begins to wear off within a few months. The more contact it has with skin, water, and chemicals, the faster it deteriorates.
Can silver plated jewellery be replated?
Technically yes, but it is rarely worth the cost. Replating a piece often costs more than buying a new sterling silver alternative.
What does 925 mean?
The 925 stamp means the piece contains 92.5% pure silver. It is the international standard for sterling silver and your most reliable way to verify authenticity.
If you are still unsure which type of silver you are looking at, feel free to get in touch. I am always happy to help.
Shop Sterling Silver Jewellery
If this guide has convinced you that sterling silver is worth the investment (and it really is), here are a few places to start:
- Create Your Own: design a fully personalised bracelet, ring, necklace or pair of earrings in solid sterling silver.
- Sterling Silver Bracelets: from gemstone stackers to charm bracelets, all in 925 silver.
- Huggie Earrings: sterling silver and gold plated hoops that are comfortable enough for all-day wear.
Every piece is handcrafted to order and comes with free UK delivery. If you prefer something truly personal, read my guide on how to design your own earrings. If you have questions about any of our materials, read the full materials guide.
Lucy x
