Sterling Silver Earrings

Sterling silver is what sits under everything in this store — the gold pairs are silver with gold over the top. These are the ones left as silver: studs, huggies, hoops from 8mm to 20mm, drops and flatbacks in solid 925. Many sold as singles as well as pairs, from $12.

Sterling Silver Earring Questions

What does 925 mean?

92.5% pure silver, with the remaining 7.5% usually copper. Pure silver is too soft to hold a shape, so the alloy is what makes it wearable. 925 is the international standard for real silver jewelry and has been for centuries — if a piece isn't stamped or described as 925, ask what it is.

Are sterling silver earrings hypoallergenic?

For most people, yes. Nickel causes the overwhelming majority of jewelry allergies and sterling silver contains none. A small number of people react to the copper instead. If you react to sterling itself, the answer is implant-grade titanium rather than a different precious metal.

Do they tarnish?

Yes, and it isn't damage. Copper in the alloy reacts with sulphur in the air and darkens; a polishing cloth removes it in under a minute. Earrings worn constantly tarnish slower than ones in a drawer, because skin contact keeps the surface clean.

Can they get wet?

Water is fine. Chlorine isn't — it pits sterling silver permanently in a way polishing won't fix. Take them out before a pool or hot tub. Showering just leaves soap film, which dulls rather than damages.

Are silver earrings good for a new piercing?

No, and it's worth being clear. A fresh piercing needs implant-grade titanium — sterling silver can oxidise against broken skin and irritate. Wait six weeks for a lobe, considerably longer for cartilage, then wear whatever you like.

Is sterling silver worth it compared to plated?

Solid sterling never wears through, because there's no coating to lose — it only needs polishing. Any plated earring eventually thins at friction points. If you want silver colour that lasts indefinitely, solid sterling is the straightforward answer.

See also silver earrings, silver hoop earrings, stud earrings and all earrings.