How To Test Sterling Silver 925

1. Check your item for markings. Use a magnifying glass if needed. Pure sterling silver has markings such as: "sterling silver," "ster," or "sterling." You may also see numbers such as 925; these numbers indicate the amount of pure silver the item contains. Keep in mind that a lack of markings does not always indicate a fake.

2. Next you can perform the magnet test. Hold the magnet near the item; if the magnet attracts the item, then you do not have genuine silver. Magnets do not attract silver.

3. Jewelers will also use nitric acid for testing silver. If you choose to perform this test yourself, be sure to handle the nitric acid with caution. For example, always wear gloves and goggles. Find an inconspicuous spot on the silver item and place a drop of nitric acid on it. Watch the spot for color changes; green indicates a fake while a creamy color means you have authentic silver.

4. Using a soft, light-colored, cloth, rub the item and check the cloth for black marks. Black marks on the cloth would indicate the authenticity of the silver. When exposed to air, silver tarnishes. When you rub the cloth on it, the tarnish comes off.