Silver jewelry combines a cool, timeless shine with versatile designs. At AuraGleam, you can discover jewelry made from 925, 990 and 999 silver, as well as selected designs in which a specific component – such as an earring post – is made from 925 silver. The collection includes rings, necklaces, earrings and bracelets with zirconia, freshwater pearls and natural stones such as moonstone, aquamarine and tanzanite.
The right type of silver depends on more than its purity. The construction of the piece, the required stability and the exact material information for the individual product are equally important.
What do 925, 990 and 999 silver mean?
The number indicates the proportion of silver contained in the alloy.
- 925 silver contains 92.5 percent silver.
- 990 silver contains 99 percent silver.
- 999 silver contains 99.9 percent silver.
925 silver is also known as sterling silver. The remaining part consists of other metals that can provide the alloy with greater stability. This makes 925 silver particularly useful for jewelry with settings, clasps, chain elements and fine details.
990 and 999 silver have a higher silver content. They are generally softer and easier to shape than 925 silver. For this reason, they are often used for open or adjustable rings and designs with a softer, more organic form.
Is 999 silver better than 925 silver?
A higher silver content does not automatically make a piece of jewelry better for every purpose. 999 silver has a very high level of purity and is comparatively soft. This can be useful for adjustable or intentionally flexible designs, but it also means that the jewelry may be more sensitive to pressure, scratches and deformation.
925 silver has a lower silver content but is generally more shape-retaining. It is well suited to earrings, fine chains, stone settings and jewelry that needs to keep its form securely.
The right choice therefore depends on the design:
- 925 silver is often suitable for fine chains, clasps and fixed settings.
- 990 or 999 silver may be suitable for open, adjustable and deliberately flexible rings.
- Jewelry with natural stones or pearls also requires consideration of the setting and construction.
Is the entire piece made from silver?
Not necessarily. The term “925 silver post,” for example, means that the post of an earring is made from 925 silver. Other parts of the earring may be made from a different material. Pendants, chains, clasps and settings can also have different material compositions.
Check whether the product page states “925 silver,” “925 silver post,” “gold-plated 925 silver” or a combination of different materials. This distinction is more meaningful than the visible gold or silver color of the jewelry.
Our collection includes earrings with silver posts, silver rings and necklaces or bracelets combined with natural stones, pearls and zirconia.
Which silver jewelry suits my style?
Silver-colored jewelry creates a clear, modern look and is easy to combine with white, grey, blue, black and cool pastel shades. It works with minimalist clothing as well as romantic or playful styles.
Fine silver necklaces highlight small pendants and natural stones. Silver studs and small hoops are easy to wear every day, while a ring with zirconia or a colorful natural stone can become the main focal point.
If you are looking for designs with colorful stones, combine silver jewelry with pieces from our crystal jewelry collection. Designs featuring freshwater pearls can also be found in our pearl jewelry collection.
Can you wear gold and silver together?
Gold and silver tones can be combined without a problem. The key is to make the mixture look intentional. A bicolor piece can connect both colors, or you can repeat the same metal tone in at least two places, such as silver-colored earrings and a silver ring with a gold-colored necklace.
Gold-plated silver also belongs within this style. The base material is silver, while the surface has a gold-colored finish. Its care and durability therefore depend on both the silver and the type of plating.
Is silver jewelry suitable for sensitive skin?
Whether a piece is tolerated depends on its complete material composition and the individual skin reaction. The word silver alone does not guarantee that every piece will be suitable for every person with sensitive skin.
In 925 silver, part of the alloy consists of other metals. Clasps, settings, soldered areas and coatings may also have a different composition. Always check the complete material information on the product page. If your skin reacts easily, wear a new piece for a limited period at first.
If redness, itching or discomfort occurs, remove the jewelry. A possible skin reaction cannot be assessed from the silver number alone.
Why does silver jewelry tarnish?
When silver jewelry becomes darker, this is not automatically a sign of poor quality. Silver can react with sulfur-containing substances in the air, cosmetics, perspiration and certain materials. This reaction creates a darker layer on the surface.
The speed of tarnishing depends on storage, humidity, skin contact and care. Jewelry that remains unworn and exposed to the air can also change color.
Light tarnishing can often be removed with a suitable silver-polishing cloth. Avoid aggressive silver dips on pieces containing pearls, natural stones, enamel or plated surfaces, as the cleaner may damage those components.
Can silver jewelry get wet?
Brief contact with clean water will not normally destroy silver jewelry immediately. However, silver jewelry should not automatically be treated as waterproof. Chlorinated water, salt water, cleaning products, perfume, hairspray and creams can affect silver, plating, settings, adhesives and natural stones.
Remove delicate jewelry before showering, swimming, exercising and cleaning. If you specifically need jewelry designed for frequent contact with water, explore our waterproof jewelry collection.
How should silver jewelry be cleaned and stored?
Store silver jewelry in a dry, dark and preferably airtight place. Keep individual pieces separate to prevent stones, clasps and metal surfaces from scratching one another.
For regular care:
- Wipe the jewelry with a soft, dry cloth after wearing it.
- Allow perfume, cream and hairspray to dry before putting on jewelry.
- Store chains closed and as flat as possible to prevent tangling.
- Avoid repeatedly bending open silver rings.
- Do not place pearls or natural stones in aggressive cleaning solutions.
- Clean gold-plated silver gently and without abrasive products.
Always follow the care information for the individual product because silver content, plating, stones and construction can vary.
Frequently asked questions about silver jewelry
What is the difference between 925 and 999 silver?
925 silver contains 92.5 percent silver and is generally more shape-retaining. 999 silver contains 99.9 percent silver but is softer and more sensitive to deformation.
Is sterling silver real silver?
Yes. Sterling silver is the commonly used name for 925 silver and contains 92.5 percent silver.
Can 925 silver tarnish?
Yes. Genuine 925 silver can darken through contact with air, perspiration, cosmetics and sulfur-containing substances. Tarnishing does not automatically mean that the silver is fake.
Can you shower while wearing silver jewelry?
Occasional contact with clean water is not the same as wearing silver jewelry in the shower every day. To preserve silver, gold plating, stones and pearls, remove the jewelry before showering.
How can I tell whether the entire piece is silver?
Read the exact material description. Terms such as “925 silver post” or “925 silver clasp” refer only to the specified component and do not automatically mean that the entire piece is made from silver.
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