925 Silver, Sterling Silver, and Italian Silver—Are They the Same?
If you've ever searched for silver jewelry online, you've likely come across these terms: 925 silver, sterling silver, and Italian silver. And you might have wondered if they are different materials, if one is better than another, or simply what they mean. The answer is simple: they are exactly the same thing. Let us explain.
What is 925 silver?
The number 925 indicates the purity of the metal in thousandths. A piece of 925 silver jewelry contains 925 parts of pure silver out of every 1,000—that is, 92.5% pure silver. The remaining 7.5% is an alloy of other metals, usually copper, though it can also include zinc, germanium, or tin depending on the manufacturer.
This is the most widely used quality standard for jewelry in Spain, Europe, and most of the world. When a piece of jewelry has the 925 stamp engraved—usually on the inside of the band, on the clasp, or in a discreet spot—it means it meets this standard and is authentic, premium-quality silver.
Why isn't 100% pure silver used?
Very good question. Pure silver—also called fine silver or 999 silver—does exist and contains 99.9% silver. The problem is that it is too soft and malleable to make jewelry. It scratches easily, deforms with bumps, and loses its shape with daily use.
By mixing it with a small amount of copper or other metals, a much more resistant and durable alloy is achieved without losing the characteristic shine or color of silver. The result is a piece of jewelry that perfectly withstands daily use and maintains its appearance for years—that is precisely 925 silver.
What about sterling silver?
Sterling silver is exactly the same as 925 silver. The term comes from the Old English sterling silver and has its origin in medieval England. In the 12th century, in northern Europe—specifically in Germany—small coins with this exact proportion of silver began to be minted. Over time, King Edward I of England adopted this standard for the kingdom's coins, and the term sterling became associated with that specific purity of 92.5%.
Today, sterling silver and 925 silver are perfect synonyms. If a piece of jewelry is advertised as sterling silver, it contains the same 92.5% silver as a piece of 925 silver.
And what about "plata de ley" (standard silver)?
Plata de ley is the official term used in Spain and other Spanish-speaking countries to refer to this same standard. According to Spanish precious metals legislation, first-grade silver (plata de primera ley) is that which contains a minimum of 925 thousandths of pure silver—that is, 92.5%.
Therefore: plata de ley = 925 silver = sterling silver. Three names, one material.
So, what is Italian silver?
Here comes the most curious point. The term Italian silver is not an official name or a legal designation. It does not appear in any regulation or certification of precious metals. It is simply a popular term that people began to use to refer to silver jewelry made in Italy, famous for its excellent artisanal quality and exclusive designs.
Over time, the term spread and came to be used generically to describe high-quality silver jewelry, regardless of its origin. Today, many people look for "Italian silver" simply referring to good quality 925 silver—which confirms that it is the same material, just with a different name that originated from word of mouth.
At Pepe Lozano Jewelers, we work with 925 silver from both Italy and Spain, always of premium quality and with a certificate of authenticity.
How do I know if a piece of jewelry is authentic 925 silver?
Look for the 925 stamp engraved on the piece—it is mandatory by law in Spain and throughout the European Union. This hallmark is applied by official precious metals laboratories that verify the composition of the jewelry before it reaches the market.
Be wary of jewelry advertised as "solid silver" or "Italian silver" without showing that stamp, and especially of prices that are too low. An authentic piece of 925 silver jewelry has a minimum cost that reflects the price of the metal. If the price is suspiciously low, it is probably stainless steel, silver-plated, or costume jewelry—materials that oxidize, darken, and lose their color with use.
In summary
| Term | What is it? |
|---|---|
| 925 Silver | Official name by purity in thousandths |
| Plata de ley | Legal term in Spain |
| Sterling silver | Anglo-Saxon origin term |
| Italian silver | Popular, unofficial term |
| All | 92.5% pure silver—exactly the same |
At Joyería Pepe Lozano, all our silver jewelry is authentic 925 sterling silver, with its included certificate of authenticity, free and insured shipping throughout Spain, and 15 days for exchange or return. If you have any questions about the materials of any of our pieces, contact us via WhatsApp—we will be happy to help you.