Jewelry IdentifierWhat Does STERLING Mean on Jewelry?
'Sterling' means 92.5% pure silver — the same as a 925 stamp.
- Metal
- Silver
- Purity
- 92.5% pure silver
- Fineness
- 925/1000
- Also written as
- 925, STER, 0.925
- Commonly on
- rings, chains, flatware, everyday silver
When jewelry is stamped 'STERLING' (or 'STER'), it means sterling silver — 92.5% pure silver mixed with 7.5% copper for strength. It's exactly the same standard as the number stamp 925. Sterling is the most common quality mark for genuine silver jewelry and flatware.
What is a STERLING piece worth?
Sterling is the benchmark silver standard with reliable melt value; the 7.5% copper alloy makes it durable enough for daily wear.
How to verify a STERLING stamp
Scan a 'STERLING' or 925 mark with the Hallmark Reader, and rule out silver-plate (EPNS) with the Is It Real? tool. Anyone can stamp a mark on metal, so a hallmark alone isn't proof — the fastest way to check is to photograph the stamp and run it through the free Hallmark Reader, then confirm the metal itself with the Is It Real? tool. For a full picture of what your piece is worth, get a free jewelry appraisal. To compare STERLING with every other mark side by side, see the full jewelry stamps and markings chart.
Frequently asked questions
Not sure what your jewelry really is?
Scan the stamp with the free Hallmark Reader, or get an instant value estimate — no sign-up needed.