Sterling Silver and Plated Silver
Silver jewelry often looks similar at first glance, but not all silver is the same. The difference between solid sterling silver and silver-plated jewelry lies beneath the surface—and becomes more apparent with time, wear, and use.
At Gypsy Jewels, we work exclusively with 925 sterling silver, chosen for its longevity, integrity, and ability to age gracefully. Understanding why begins with knowing how these materials are made.
What Is 925 Sterling Silver?
Sterling silver is a solid metal alloy composed of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% copper. This balance preserves the natural beauty of silver while adding the strength needed for daily wear.
Because sterling silver is solid throughout, it can be shaped, finished, polished, and repaired over time. As it’s worn, the surface develops a soft patina that reflects use rather than deterioration. This aging is gradual and reversible, making sterling silver a material that evolves alongside the wearer.
All silver jewelry produced by Gypsy Jewels is made using 925 sterling silver—never plated, coated, or filled.
What Is Silver-Plated Jewelry?
Silver-plated jewelry is constructed from a base metal—commonly brass or copper—that is coated with a thin layer of silver. While the surface may resemble solid silver initially, the underlying material determines how the piece wears over time.
With regular use, the silver coating can wear away, exposing the base metal beneath. Once this occurs, the appearance cannot be restored through polishing, as the silver layer itself has been removed. Plated pieces are typically lighter in weight and best suited for occasional wear rather than long-term use.
How These Materials Wear Over Time
The most meaningful difference between sterling silver and plated jewelry becomes evident through wear.
Sterling silver
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Ages gradually and evenly
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Develops character through natural patina
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Can be polished, refinished, and maintained
Silver-plated jewelry
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Shows wear at high-contact points
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May discolor unevenly as plating wears away
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Cannot be repaired once the coating is compromised
These distinctions affect not only appearance, but how a piece feels, functions, and endures over years of use.
Choosing Materials with Intention
Material choice shapes the lifespan of a piece. Sterling silver is selected for durability, repairability, and its ability to settle into daily life. Plated jewelry offers a temporary alternative, with the understanding that its surface and structure are inherently limited.
Working exclusively with 925 sterling silver allows us to create jewelry meant to be worn regularly, maintained over time, and carried forward rather than replaced.
— From the Gypsy Jewels studio in West Texas