While you can use common household items to get a good idea if a metal isn't sterling silver, to truly determine if your bling is genuine 925 silver, you should check for hallmarks, try an acid test, or consult a professional. Only these methods will confirm if it's the real deal! Pssst... Why not check out our silver guide for more telltale signs?
That being said, you can use common household items to get a good idea if a metal isn't sterling silver...
1. The Magnet Test
Sterling silver isn't usually magnetic. It's mostly silver (92.5%) mixed with a bit of copper, which isn't magnetic either. The tiny amount of other metals in sterling silver (usually less than 8%) isn't enough to make it magnetic. So, if something sticks to a magnet, it's probably not real sterling silver.
What to do: Hold the magnet near the item. If it doesn't stick, it could be sterling silver. If it does stick, it's probably not sterling silver.
What you need:
- A fridge magnet
2. The Ice Cube Test
Usually, putting a real silver item on ice will make the ice melt a bit faster. This isn't because of any special properties of silver itself; it's just that silver is great at conducting heat. At room temperature, genuine sterling silver will melt ice very quickly. However, in very cold environments like outside during winter, the silver won't have any heat to conduct and therefore won't melt the ice.
What to do: Wrap the piece of silver in aluminium foil. This helps create a controlled environment for the test. Place an ice cube on top of the foil-wrapped silver item and watch how quickly the ice melts. You can also perform the foil test with another metal alongside sterling silver to compare their thermal conductivity.
What you need:
- An ice cube
- Aluminium foil
3. The Vinegar Test
Acidity in vinegar reacts with non-silver metals, causing discoloration. This can help determine if an item is authentic silver or a cheaper metal.
What to do: Mix equal parts of white vinegar and baking soda in a bowl and stir until the baking soda is dissolved. Dip the cloth in the mixture and rub it on the silver jewellery. If the cloth turns black or green, the item might not be sterling silver. Ensure you rinse the item thoroughly with water after the test.
What you need:
- White vinegar
- Baking soda
- A small bowl
- A soft cloth
4. The Baking Soda Test
Got tarnished silver? Baking soda's gentle abrasiveness helps remove tarnish without damaging the silver. The shiny surface after polishing will leave you breathing a sigh of relief!
What to do: Make a paste with baking soda and water. Apply the paste to the jewellery and gently rub. If the item is sterling silver, it will shine after cleaning. Rinse and dry the item well after this test.
What you need:
- Baking soda
- Water
- A soft cloth or sponge
5. The Sound Test
This test is most effective with flat sterling silver pieces. Unlike other metals, 925 silver produces a distinct, clear ringing sound when struck.
What to do: Gently tap your silver jewellery with a coin. Genuine silver will produce a clear, ringing sound. Compare the sound with a known sterling silver item to distinguish between real and imitation.
What you need:
- A metal coin
6. The Discolouration Test
While genuine sterling silver tarnishes, it won't reveal a different metal underneath, unlike silver-plated items. If the silver starts to rub off, you'll know it's not the real deal!
What to do: Check the item for any discolouration. If it's plated, the base metal will show through over time.
What you need:
- Your eyes and good lighting
7. The Smell Test
Real 925 silver is odourless, whereas other metals may emit a noticeable smell.
What to do: If your jewellery has a strong, metallic smell, it is likely not silver.
What you need:
- Your nose
