Sterling silver (92.5% pure silver) is an alloy of silver and (7.5%) other metals. The other “metals” are usually copper.

Fine silver (99.9% pure) is generally too soft for producing large functional objects. That is why Sterling silver is usually combined with copper, to give strength whilst preserving the ductility of the silver and a high precious metal content.

The other metals that can replace the copper, usually with the intent to improve various properties of the basic sterling alloy (such as reducing casting porosity, eliminating firescale, and increasing resistance to tarnish).

These replacement metals include:

• Germanium
• Zinc
• Platinum

There are also a variety of other additives including silicon and boron that can be added.

A number of alloys claiming firescale and/or tarnish resistance have appeared in recent years creating stiff competition between the manufacturers and their different formulas but not one alloy has emerged as an industry leader or standard.

Ongoing alloy development is a very active area in the sterling silver industry.