Which Is Better: Sterling Silver or Stainless Steel Jewelry?

If you are a big fan of jewelry, you probably have had this debate in your head already. 

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When it comes to jewelry, the great divide is about gold vs. silver. While being a silver lover edges you closer to your final choice,

You still need to choose between the two big wigs: sterling silver and stainless steel.

Which one of these is best?

Here, read more on what each is, the differences, and the best pick.

316L Stainless Steel vs. 925 Sterling Silver

These two metals confuse most people because they share a common physical property; both have a shiny, silvery finish. 

This aside, the two are very different. 

Stainless steel consists of iron and chromium. At times, there are traces of nickel. When oxygen mixes with chromium, a transparent film is formed. This film is what protects the steel from rusting. 

The steel used in making jewelry differs from the one used in construction and is also known as surgical stainless steel. The result is a durable, timeless, monochromatic look.  

Stainless Steel Jewelry Pros:

• More affordable compared to sterling silver jewelry
• Beautiful, mirror finish
• Durable
• Hard to dent
• It does not rust, meaning its less likely to lose its glossy appearance

Stainless Steel Jewelry Cons:

• It’s very hard, which also makes resizing difficult. 

Sterling silver is not pure silver, but silver with another metal.  

Sterling silver means 92.5 % of silver blended with a 7.5 % copper alloy. The number 925 or sterling is often stamped on jewelry to indicate that the piece is made of sterling silver.

Sterling Silver Jewelry Pros: 

• It has an attractive, matte, classy finish
• It can be molded easily, which explains the variety of designs jewelry creators can come up with
• You can get stones included in it

Sterling Silver Jewelry Cons:

• It tarnishes with time
• it lacks the new jewelry look and shines
• It can be dented
• it’s often costlier than stainless steel

Which Is Best?

The stainless steel vs. sterling silver debate is unlikely to end any day soon. Often, it boils down to preference. 

There are, however, good reasons why stainless steel seems to be the preferred option for most customers.  

Its shiny look, affordability, and easy to clean properties make stainless steel jewelry very appealing.

The other significant deciding factor is that stainless steel is hypoallergenic. Wearers enjoy the freedom that comes with wearing their jewelry without the risk of skin irritation. Stainless steel jewelry allows you to enjoy your pieces year-round, safely.

The third is that it’s extremely easy to maintain. A quick wash with warm soapy water and a firm polish is all you need to keep your jewelry looking brand new. 

Looking For a Supplier?

At Monera, we understand how important it is for jewelry retail businesses such as yours to partner with a reputable supplier with a limited supply of designs for your clients to choose from. 

Monera is a leading Thailand-based jewelry designer and manufacturer renowned for exquisite stainless steel jewelry designs. 

When shopping for jewelry, you’ve likely noticed tiny engravings inside rings, such as "S925", "925", or "Sterling Silver." But what does this marking actually mean? Is it a sign of quality, or just a marketing label?

What Does "S925" Mean?

"S925" is an international stamp that certifies a piece is made of sterling silver—an alloy containing 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper).

Why 92.5% and not 100%?

Pure silver (999 fine) is too soft for jewelry—it bends and scratches easily.

The added 7.5% copper strengthens the metal, making it durable enough for rings, necklaces, and bracelets.

Other markings you might see:

Are you interested in learning more about S925 Necklace? Contact us today to secure an expert consultation!

"925" (same as S925, just without the "S")

"Ster" or "Sterling" (common in the U.S. and UK)

"925 Italy" (indicates Italian craftsmanship)

Is S925 Real Silver?

Yes! S925 is real silver. Here’s how it compares:

Why Does S925 Tarnish? 

Sterling silver tarnishes because copper reacts with oxygen and sulfur in the air, forming a dark layer.

How to Prevent Tarnish:

✔ Store in an airtight bag (anti-tarnish pouches work best)

✔ Avoid contact with perfume, sweat, and chlorine

✔ Clean with a silver polishing cloth (not toothpaste—it’s abrasive!)

Pro Tip: If your ring turns black, soak it in warm water + baking soda + aluminum foil for 5 minutes to restore shine!

How to Tell If Your S925 Ring Is Fake

Since fake stamps exist, here’s how to test authenticity:

•  The Magnet Test

Real silver is non-magnetic. If a magnet sticks, it’s fake.

•  The Ice Test

Silver conducts heat rapidly. Place an ice cube on it—if it melts fast, it’s likely real.

• The Smell Test

Fake silver (especially nickel) often smells metallic. Real silver should be odorless.

For 100% certainty, take it to a jeweler for an acid test or XRF analysis.

Common Myths About S925 Rings

Myth 1: "925 Silver Is Cheap"

While affordable compared to gold, high-quality S925 is still premium. Designer brands use it!

Myth 2: "It’s Hypoallergenic"

Some people react to the 7.5% copper. If you have sensitive skin, look for nickel-free sterling silver.

Myth 3: "All 925 Rings Are the Same"

Craftsmanship matters! A handmade Italian 925 ring will last longer than a mass-produced one.

At OBY Jewelry, we take pride in crafting sustainable and elegant pieces using high-quality S925 sterling silver. Each design reflects our dedication to ethical practices and timeless aesthetics. If you're exploring the world of sterling silver jewelry, here are some of our standout pieces featuring S925 silver:

Black Onyx Signet Ring: A bold yet minimal design, this vintage-inspired ring is made with S925 silver and polished to a high shine.

All our sterling silver pieces carry the S925 hallmark, ensuring you’re investing in jewelry that balances quality, ethics, and style.

Final Verdict: Is S925 good quality?

Absolutely! S925 is the global standard for silver jewelry - durable, beautiful, and affordable. Just remember:

• Look for the mark (S925, 925, or Sterling)
• Test with a magnet to avoid fakes with plating
• Take good care of it to prevent tarnish

Now that you know what S925 means, you can make smarter choices about silver jewelry and make it last longer! At OBY, we use recycled silver and diamonds to create affordable jewelry for you, so come and shop it!

How To Clean Sterling Silver

Please refer to our previously published articles. Here

If you are looking for more details, kindly visit S925 Earrings.

• How To Care Silver Jewelry