925 silver vs stainless steel: which is better for daily wear?
Hot Answered
I want something cheap that will not turn my skin green.
4 Answers
156
Best Answer
Tarnish is normal, not a sign of fake silver. 925 sterling has 7.5 percent copper, and that copper reacts with sulfur in the air to form a dark layer. To slow it down: store in anti-tarnish bags, wipe with a polishing cloth after wear, and take it off before showering or spraying perfume.
Apr 28, 2026
134
Blackened silver is almost always salvageable. Line a bowl with aluminum foil, drop in the silver, sprinkle baking soda, pour boiling water, wait 3 minutes. The tarnish transfers to the foil. For heavy build-up, use a silver polishing cloth. Do NOT use toothpaste - it scratches.
May 1, 2026
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Rhodium plated over 925 silver means a thin layer of white rhodium is electroplated on top. It makes the silver brighter, whiter, and tarnish-resistant. The plating wears off in 6-18 months depending on wear, and re-plating costs 20-40 dollars. Underneath is still real 925.
Apr 30, 2026
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Yes, sterling silver is fully recyclable. Scrap dealers will buy it by weight. It is not worth shipping a 10 dollar necklace, but if you have a box of broken old pieces, a local jeweler will often weigh and trade them.
May 2, 2026
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S Sue Collins Jun 12, 2026I've been wondering this for months.