Silver Ring Buying Guide

Shopping for a sterling silver ring involves a few things worth checking before you buy. Here’s what to look for.

Look for the 925 stamp

Genuine sterling silver is 92.5% pure silver alloyed with other metals for strength, and is usually stamped “925” somewhere on the band. Listings that only say “silver-plated” or “silver-tone” are not the same material and will tarnish and wear differently.

Sizing

Ring sizes vary by brand and style — a wide band typically fits more snugly than a thin one in the same labeled size. If you’re not sure of your size, a ring sizer kit (see our Care & Accessories category) is an inexpensive way to check before you order.

Tarnish and care

Sterling silver naturally tarnishes over time from air and skin contact — this is normal, not a defect. Regular gentle polishing with a proper silver cloth, and storing rings in a dry, airtight container when not worn, will keep them looking new far longer.

Stone settings

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a common, affordable stand-in for diamonds in silver jewelry, offering strong sparkle at a fraction of the price. Prong and bezel settings hold stones more securely for daily wear than glued or pressed settings.