What Are the Different Types of Silver That Exist Today?
Most people used to think the more gold someone has, the greater their wealth and influence. But, over the last few years, silver has surpassed gold in popularity. One survey found that about 79% of respondents prefer silver-colored jewelry!
Did you know that, like gold, there are different types and qualities of silver? If you’re not a jeweler, chances are that you only know one or two types.
We put together a quick guide to explain all the different types of silver on the market today. Keep reading to find out which type of silver you should invest in next!
Grades of Silver
Like gold, there are several silver grades used in different applications. These are the most common silver types on the market for the public to buy. Look for the silver quality mark somewhere on the item.
Fine Silver
The purest silver you can get is fine silver. This has only trace elements of other metals at 99.9% silver! It is prone to dents and scratches, so be careful with fine silver items.
Sterling Silver
The best silver jewelry in the United States and across the globe is sterling silver grade. Sterling silver is about 92.5% silver and the remaining 7.5% is either copper or nickel.
Coin Silver
Though this kind of silver is rare to find now, it was once more prevalent in the US. Coin silver is 90% silver and 10% copper. It got its name because metal workers would melt down silver coins to make it.
Silver-Filled Jewelry
Metalworkers developed a new kind of silver as the price of silver rose, filled silver. The core is brass fused to an outer layer of silver. Though there isn’t an official quality mark, some use.925 SF to show the item is a filled silver piece.
Silver Plated
Silver-plated items are like silver-filled items except for the outer silver layer. Not only is this layer thinner, but it’s not bonded to the core and will tend to wear off and tarnish over time.
Different Types of Silver Alloys
Silver alloy is pure silver mixed with other metals to make it more firm and resistant to damage. These are some of the more common alloys we haven’t already mentioned.
- Argentium silver- silver, copper & germanium
- Billon- copper/bronzed copper & silver
- Britannia silver- silver & copper
- Electrum- silver & gold
- Goloid- silver, copper & gold
- Platinum sterling- silver & platinum
- Shibuichi- silver & copper
Don’t Miss the Silver Lining Because You’re Focused on Gold
One of the reasons many people choose silver over gold is because it matches any outfit. It’s a more versatile precious metal than gold and costs way less!
Keep this article in mind when you go shopping for silver coins, jewelry, and other items. That way, you know you’re getting the type of silver you’re looking for.
We hope you enjoyed reading this article and that you learned about the different types of silver. If you’re looking for more articles about business, lifestyles, and more, check out the rest of our blog today!
