Silver-Plated vs. Sterling Silver Jewelry: What’s the Difference?

When it comes to silver jewelry, there are a lot of factors to consider beyond just the cost. For instance, which necklaces are more durable and of higher quality? Are you looking for bracelets with classic appeal or a contemporary flair? Or, to put it simply, which is a better choice in silver-plated vs. sterling silver jewelry?

The answer depends on your personal style, budget, and preferences. For instance, silver-plated jewelry might be more suitable for occasional wear or statement pieces. It has a lower upfront cost, and is more versatile. On the other hand, sterling silver jewelry is the ideal choice if you are looking for pieces that stand the test of time. Mighty Dainty explores the nuances that differentiate between silver-plated vs. sterling silver below, to help you make informed decisions when you buy your next silver piece of jewelry. 

Read More: A Guide on How to Clean Silver Jewelry

What Is Silver-Plated Jewelry?

Silver-plated jewelry looks and feels luxurious, but without the hefty price tag. When considering silver-plated vs. sterling silver, it is important to note that silver-plated pieces may still need to be re-plated over time to maintain their brilliance. Here are some of its characteristics:

• Silver-plated jewelry also contains real silver, but only in its coating instead of its core.
• The process of silver plating involves coating a base metal (typically brass or copper) with a thin layer of silver, which can range from a few microns to a fraction of a millimeter. 
• Since it lacks significant silver content, it is more affordable than sterling silver. 
• It is more likely to chip, scratch, or dull over time as the silver coating wears away, exposing the base metal underneath. It can even turn green in some cases due to external elements.
• The key to longevity is proper cleaning and gentle care, such as avoiding harsh chemicals or abrasive materials. It is also crucial to store it in a dry, cool place. 

What Is Sterling Silver Jewelry? 

The term ’sterling’ originated in medieval England, where it was used to define the standard for silver purity. It is an excellent choice for everyday jewelry pieces, which can even become cherished heirlooms over time. The following are some of its characteristics: 

• Sterling silver combines 92.5% pure silver with 7.5% other metals –such as copper, zinc, or nickel – to increase its strength and durability, since objects made from pure silver scratch and bend easily.
• Sterling silver is more resistant to dents or scratches compared to silver-plated options. While it is not as hard as other metals like stainless steel, it can withstand regular use without compromising on its unique luster. 
• It can still tarnish over time, but you can easily restore its shine with a silver polishing cloth or solution. There are also other methods to store and clean sterling silver jewelry to keep it looking its best. 
• Since sterling silver contains a higher composition of pure silver, it has a substantial weight and feel. 
• It typically has a high resale value, which makes it a good potential investment. 
• Its malleable nature allows jewelers to mold it into intricate and beautiful designs. 

How to Tell Sterling Silver vs. Plated Jewelry Apart

There are a few simple ways to distinguish between silver-plated vs. sterling silver jewelry. The easiest method is to check the piece for an authenticity stamp. Real sterling silver usually has a marking or hallmark that indicates the purity of the silver, such as ’925’, ‘.925’, or ’Sterling’. On the other hand, silver-plated jewelry is often marked with ‘EP’, ‘EPNS’, or ‘A1’. 

Another effective way to tell apart silver-plated vs. sterling silver jewelry is the magnet test. Hold up a magnet to the piece and check if it sticks. If it does, it is not made of pure silver or contains a significant amount of other metals. Hence, it is not sterling silver. 

Although this is only a subtle difference between silver-plated vs. sterling silver jewelry, the former tends to be lighter in color with more shine than sterling silver jewelry. Alternatively, the latter has a heavier feel to it than the former. Silver-plated jewelry is also more likely to cause skin irritation, while sterling silver is hypoallergenic.

Read More: Gold Filled Jewelry – A Guide for Beginners

Why Mighty Dainty's Silver Collection Stands Out

When it comes to silver-plated vs. sterling silver, the right choice depends on what matters most to you – longevity, luster, or the feeling a piece brings when you put it on. At Mighty Dainty, we believe jewelry should do more than complete a look. It should tell a story, carry meaning, and reflect who you are.

Our silver collection is designed with that purpose in mind. Whether it is a photo necklace, a customized bracelet, or a mixed-metal pair of earrings, each piece is handcrafted in California to accompany you through casual days, meaningful milestones, and everything in between.

The silver-plated vs. sterling silver decision is not just about cost or composition. It is about what feels authentic to your style and your story. Whichever you choose, you can trust it is thoughtfully made, beautifully detailed, and meant to feel like it was always yours.