Silver jewelry has remained a timeless favorite for generations — and for good reason. Its radiant shine, elegance, and versatility make it a must-have in any jewelry collection. However, as demand for silver continues to grow, so does the presence of counterfeit silver jewelry on the market.
One reliable way to identify genuine silver is by checking for the "S925" stamp, which confirms the piece is made of 92.5% pure sterling silver. But even with this mark, it’s still important to know how to recognize fake pieces, as imitations sometimes carry false stamps.
In this guide, Starsgem shares three simple and effective tips to help you confidently spot authentic S925 sterling silver jewelry and avoid being misled by counterfeits.
1. Look for the S925 Stamp
The easiest and most important way to identify genuine S925 sterling silver is by checking for the S925 stamp. This marking confirms that the jewelry is made of 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% typically being copper for added strength.
You’ll usually find this stamp in discreet areas of the piece — such as the inside of a ring band, the back of a pendant, or near the clasp on a necklace or bracelet. Sometimes, it may appear alongside other markings like "925" or "Sterling", all indicating the same silver purity standard.
At Starsgem, every sterling silver piece is clearly stamped with S925, ensuring authenticity and providing peace of mind that you’re investing in genuine, high-quality silver — not a cheaper metal coated with silver plating.
Understanding the S925 Stamp
The "S925" stamp is an official quality mark that indicates the silver content of a piece of jewelry. It means the item is made of 92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% composed of other metals — typically copper — to enhance strength, durability, and workability. This precise blend is what gives sterling silver its signature shine, brilliance, and long-lasting wear.
Watch Out for Fake Stamps
While the S925 hallmark is a helpful way to identify genuine silver, it’s important to be cautious, as counterfeit pieces with fake stamps do exist on the market. Some dishonest sellers may stamp inferior metals with "S925" or similar marks to pass them off as real sterling silver. To avoid falling victim to this, always buy from trusted, reputable jewelers like Starsgem, and when possible, verify the authenticity of the stamp through additional checks or professional appraisal.
Look for Other Authenticity Marks
In addition to the S925 stamp, you might also find other purity marks that confirm the silver's authenticity. These include the word "Sterling," the numerical mark "925," or sometimes ".925". All of these indicate that the jewelry meets the sterling silver standard of 92.5% silver content. When combined with Starsgem’s strict quality assurance and certified markings, you can feel confident you’re purchasing real, high-quality sterling silver.
2. Perform a Magnet Test
A quick and easy way to check if your S925 silver jewelry is genuine is by using the magnet test. Since sterling silver is non-magnetic, it should not be attracted to a magnet. If the jewelry sticks to a magnet, it’s a strong indication that it’s made from another metal — like nickel, iron, or other alloys — that has simply been plated to look like silver.
This test is simple to perform at home. Just take a small magnet and hold it close to your jewelry. If the piece remains unaffected, it’s likely genuine S925 sterling silver. However, if it clings to the magnet, it’s probably made of a cheaper base metal.
At Starsgem, we guarantee that every piece of our sterling silver jewelry passes authenticity checks like this, so you can wear your favorites with complete confidence.
Be Cautious of Plated Silver
While the magnet test is a handy way to detect fake silver, it’s important to remember that some pieces might still react to a magnet even if they appear genuine. That’s because certain jewelry items are made from base metals like copper or brass, then plated with a thin layer of sterling silver. In these cases, the magnet will be drawn to the underlying metal, while the silver plating itself remains non-magnetic.
To avoid misjudging a piece, it’s always a good idea to combine the magnet test with other methods — like checking for an authentic S925 stamp and examining the color and luster of the jewelry.
Use a Strong Magnet for Accurate Results
For this test to be effective, it’s essential to use a strong, reliable magnet. A weak refrigerator magnet may not have enough strength to detect the underlying metal, potentially giving you false results. For best accuracy, use a small neodymium magnet, which you can easily find at hardware stores or online.
Handle with Care
When performing the magnet test, be mindful of delicate designs and gemstones. If the jewelry is fragile or intricately set, it’s a good idea to wrap the magnet in a soft cloth before testing. This will help prevent any accidental scratches or damage. At Starsgem, our sterling silver jewelry is crafted with care, but we always recommend using gentle, safe testing methods to protect your valuable pieces.
3. Check for Natural Tarnishing
One reliable way to identify genuine S925 silver is by looking for signs of tarnishing. Over time, real sterling silver naturally develops a dark patina or discoloration on its surface due to exposure to air, moisture, and certain chemicals. This is a normal chemical reaction and actually serves as a good indicator that the piece is made from authentic silver.
In contrast, fake silver or silver-plated jewelry typically doesn’t tarnish the same way. If a piece remains overly bright and shiny even after years of wear, it’s a sign that it may not be real sterling silver.
However, it’s worth noting that factors like humidity, sweat, skincare products, and household chemicals can affect how quickly silver tarnishes. For this reason, it’s best to use this method alongside other authenticity checks — like the S925 stamp and magnet test — to get a more accurate assessment.
At Starsgem, all of our sterling silver pieces are made from genuine S925 silver and will naturally develop a beautiful patina over time, which can easily be restored to its original shine with proper care.
Understanding the Tarnishing Process
Tarnishing is a natural chemical reaction that occurs when silver comes into contact with sulfur compounds in the air, forming a thin layer of silver sulfide on the surface. This process gives silver its characteristic darkened or greyish tone over time. While many people view tarnish as a drawback, it’s actually a reassuring sign of authentic sterling silver. The good news is, tarnish can be easily removed with a silver polishing cloth or a specialized cleaning solution, restoring your jewelry’s original brilliance.
Watch Out for Artificial Tarnish
Be aware that some counterfeiters intentionally create a fake tarnished appearance on low-quality metals to make their pieces seem more genuine. They may use chemicals or manual techniques to darken the metal, but this kind of artificial tarnish often looks uneven, unnatural, or patchy compared to the subtle, even patina that forms naturally on real sterling silver. If a piece appears suspicious, it’s wise to combine this observation with other verification methods — like checking for an S925 stamp or doing a magnet test.
How to Care for Your Silver Jewelry
To slow down the tarnishing process and keep your jewelry looking its best, it’s important to keep S925 silver clean, dry, and properly stored. Avoid wearing your pieces while swimming, showering, or during vigorous activities. When not in use, store your jewelry in an airtight pouch or box to reduce exposure to air and moisture. Regularly wipe your jewelry with a soft cloth and occasionally use a silver cleaner to maintain its shine.
At Starsgem, we’re committed to providing genuine S925 sterling silver jewelry designed to last — with proper care, your favorite pieces will retain their beauty for years to come.
FAQs About S925 Silver Jewelry
Q: Is S925 silver the same as sterling silver?
A: Yes — S925 silver is simply another name for sterling silver. Both indicate that the jewelry is made from 92.5% pure silver combined with 7.5% other metals, typically copper, for added strength and durability.
Q: How can I tell if my silver jewelry is solid or plated?
A: One of the easiest ways to check is by performing a magnet test. If the piece is attracted to a magnet, it’s likely made from a different metal and plated with silver. Also, look for a clear S925 stamp, which is usually found on genuine sterling silver pieces. At Starsgem, every piece of our silver jewelry is carefully hallmarked to guarantee authenticity.
Q: Can I wear my silver jewelry in the shower or while swimming?
A: It’s best to avoid wearing sterling silver jewelry in water, especially in pools, hot tubs, or the ocean. Prolonged exposure to moisture and chemicals can speed up tarnishing and dull the jewelry’s shine.
Q: How should I clean my S925 silver jewelry?
A: Clean your silver jewelry regularly using a soft polishing cloth or a specially formulated silver cleaning solution. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as they can scratch or damage the surface. Starsgem recommends wiping your jewelry gently after each wear to remove oils and moisture.
Q: What should I do if my silver jewelry tarnishes?
A: Tarnishing is a normal process for real sterling silver and can be easily removed. Use a silver polishing cloth or a mild cleaning solution to restore its shine. For heavily tarnished pieces, consider taking them to a professional jeweler for a thorough cleaning.
Final Thoughts
Recognizing genuine S925 silver jewelry isn’t as complicated as it might seem. By remembering to check for the S925 stamp, perform a magnet test, and observe natural tarnishing patterns, you can quickly identify authentic sterling silver. And if you’re ever unsure, don’t hesitate to consult a professional.
For guaranteed quality, choose Starsgem — where every piece of our S925 sterling silver jewelry is crafted with care, clearly hallmarked, and designed to last. Shop with confidence and add beautiful, authentic silver pieces to your collection without worry.
Lab Grown Emerald
