What is fine silver?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
Fine silver is pure silver with a minimum content of 99.9%, often stamped 999. It is the purest form of silver used in jewellery and has a bright, white lustre that tarnishes far less readily than sterling. The trade-off is softness: at this purity silver marks easily, so it is not well suited to rings or bracelets that take daily wear. Most jewellery is made from sterling silver, 92.5% silver alloyed with copper for strength, though fine silver is used for PMC work, some beads and decorative pieces.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between fine silver and sterling silver?
- Fine silver is 99.9% pure silver, while sterling silver is 92.5% silver mixed with 7.5% other metal, usually copper. Sterling is harder and more durable for wearable jewellery; fine silver is purer but softer and better suited to less-worn pieces.
- Does fine silver tarnish?
- It tarnishes much more slowly than sterling silver because there is no copper in the alloy to react with air and moisture. Over time it can develop a slight darkening, but it is far less prone to the black tarnish common with sterling.
- What does 999 silver mean?
- The stamp 999 indicates 999 parts per thousand, or 99.9% pure silver. It is the standard hallmark for fine silver, in the same way that 925 marks sterling silver at 92.5% purity.
Designing a ring
Talk through fine silver with us
Tell us what you have in mind, even if it is only a budget and a piece of jewellery type, and we will help you weigh up the options. We reply to every enquiry, usually within one business day.
Contact the studio