If you’ve ever shopped for high-quality jewellery, you’ll likely have come across the term 925 sterling silver. It’s more than just a number, it’s a mark of authenticity, durability, and craftsmanship. At Saw Framed, where every piece of jewellery is imagined and made in Ireland, sterling silver is at the very heart of what we do.
What Does ‘925’ Mean?
Sterling silver is an alloy, made from 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper. This precise combination gives the silver strength and longevity, while still retaining its signature lustre. Pure silver on its own is soft and can easily scratch or bend, making it impractical for everyday wear.
The number 925 is stamped or lasered into the metal as a hallmark, quite literally a promise that the silver content meets this trusted standard. For added assurance, all our pieces carry Irish hallmarking from the Assay Office in Dublin Castle, confirming their quality and origin.
Why Choose Sterling Silver?
There’s a reason sterling silver has remained a beloved material across centuries:
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Durability: It holds its shape and strength while ageing gracefully.
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Timeless Look: That cool, crisp shine never goes out of style.
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Versatility: Suitable for everything from bold statement pieces to delicate, detailed designs.
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Better Value: More affordable than gold or platinum, yet undeniably luxurious.
At Saw Framed, we work only with solid 925 sterling silver, never plated, ensuring that what you see is what you wear forever. It can be recycled / upcycled, pass down as heirloom, melted down and reimaged again.
Does Sterling Silver Tarnish?
In short, yes, sterling silver can tarnish over time. That’s not a flaw, but rather a natural reaction between the metal and the environment (moisture, air, or certain skin types). Tarnish appears as a dark or dull film on the surface but can be easily polished away. We actually called the tarnish - oxidisation.
In fact, wearing your silver jewellery regularly often helps to keep it looking its best. Your skin’s natural oils act as a barrier, slowing down the tarnishing process.
A Note From Us
At Saw Framed, we’re proud to be a small Irish business creating handcrafted sterling silver jewellery that reflects our heritage, landscape, and love of artful design. Every piece is made from solid 925 sterling silver, hallmarked in Dublin Castle, and designed to last a lifetime.
So whether you're gifting someone special or treating yourself, you can be sure you're getting something made with integrity, care, and a touch of Irish soul.