925 Sterling Silver & UK Hallmarking Guide
A clear guide to the silver used in Belumiee jewellery, how plated finishes work, UK hallmarking and how to care for your piece.
Is 925 sterling silver pure silver?
925 sterling silver contains 92.5% pure silver. The remaining 7.5% is made from other metals that give jewellery the strength needed for regular wear. Fine or “pure” silver is softer, so 925 sterling silver is the recognised standard used for durable silver jewellery.
What does a 925 stamp mean?
A 925 stamp indicates the stated fineness of the metal. It is not, by itself, a complete UK hallmark. Product stamping can vary by design and size, so please contact us before ordering if a stamp is important to you.
Silver, gold and rose-gold finishes
Colour describes the surface finish, not the base metal. A gold or rose-gold coloured piece can still have a genuine 925 sterling silver base. Where applicable, individual product pages state the plating, stones and protective coating supplied for that design.
Will sterling silver tarnish?
Sterling silver can naturally tarnish when exposed to air, moisture, perfume, lotions or household chemicals. Tarnish is a surface reaction and does not mean the jewellery is fake. Plated finishes and protective coatings may reduce exposure but are not permanent and will wear differently depending on use and care.
How to care for your jewellery
- Apply perfume, hairspray and lotion before putting jewellery on.
- Remove jewellery before bathing, swimming, exercising, sleeping or cleaning.
- After wear, gently wipe the piece with a clean, soft, dry cloth.
- Store each piece separately in a dry pouch or closed jewellery box.
- Do not use abrasive silver polish on plated or stone-set jewellery.
UK hallmarking
In the UK, silver items offered for sale as silver normally require a recognised hallmark when they weigh more than 7.78 grams. Silver items at or below 7.78 grams may legally be exempt. Please check the individual product information or contact hello@belumiee.com if you would like the weight or hallmarking details of a particular item before ordering.
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