European silver (800): Sometimes referenced as continental silver, this is another non-sterling type of silver alloy.Items made from this alloy may include marks such as 900, C oin, and Standard. Coin silver (900): Since it is only 90% silver, this alloy cannot be referenced as sterling.Any mark indicating a higher silver content, such as 950, would also qualify as sterling. Marks on these pieces include 925 or Sterling. Sterling silver (925): This is the standard for silver, identifying a silver item that is at least 92.5% silver mixed with copper to give it strength.This silver qualifies as sterling, but it is slightly softer than sterling pieces marked 925 or simply sterling. Brittania silver (950): Brittania silver is an alloy made of 95% silver, which exceeds the requirement for sterling silver.
