How to Identify Genuine Sterling Silver Bangles vs Plated

If you are curating a jewellery collection with longevity in mind, material choice matters. 

You may have noticed more conversation around gold and silver recently. With global supply tightening and demand increasing across industries, precious metal prices have risen significantly.

One of the most significant shifts that's come from this, has been a move towards silver plated jewellery. Plated silver looks similar at first glance but performs very differently over time.

• Solid sterling silver can be polished, resized and worn for years without losing its integrity. If it exceeds 7.78g it should be hallmarked to verify it's authenticity.
• Silver plated jewellery, by contrast, has only a thin surface layer of silver over a base metal. Over time that layer can wear away, exposing the metal beneath and changing the appearance of the piece. Plated materials should be advertised as such, but it's often hard to find when you're shopping online. 

Choosing solid sterling silver is not just about appearance. It is about longevity, craftsmanship and true value.

What Is Sterling Silver?

Not all silver jewellery is created equal. Sterling silver is made from 92.5 percent pure silver combined with a small amount of alloy for strength. It is solid throughout.

You will often see it stamped with: 925 Sterling Sterling Silver This hallmark is your first indicator of authenticity.

When you invest in a silver bangle, knowing the difference between solid sterling silver and plated alternatives protects both your money and your expectations.

What Is Silver Plated Jewellery?

Silver plated jewellery is typically made from a base metal such as brass or copper, with a thin layer of silver applied over the surface.

Over time, this plating can:

• Wear away
• Fade
• Expose base metal underneath
• Cause skin discolouration

While plated jewellery can be cheaper upfront, it often needs replacing sooner.

How to Identify Genuine Silver Bangles

Here are practical checks you can use to identify real silver bangles and other jewellery before or after purchase: 

Before you purchase silver jewellery;

1. Check the product listing: Does it mention solid silver? If not check the material section to see if it's plated. All of our products have a material section so you can see what you're buying before you purchase. 
2. Ask About Resizing: Solid silver bangles can often be resized or adjusted. Plated pieces usually cannot without damaging the surface. We offer free resizing on all of our solid silver bangles and rings. 

If you've already purchased: 

1. Look for a 925 stamp: Most genuine sterling silver pieces are stamped. Absence of a stamp does not always mean it is fake, but presence is reassuring.
2. Check the Weight: Solid silver has noticeable weight. Plated pieces often feel lighter. This is  one of the comments we hear most from our customers in our reviews that you can feel the quality in our pieces as soon as they arrive in their hands. 
3. Observe Tarnish Behaviour: Sterling silver may tarnish slightly over time, but it can be polished back to its original shine. Plated jewellery tends to flake or fade instead.

Why Handmade UK Silver Bangles Are Different

There are many UK based jewellers specialising in handmade silver bangles crafted from solid sterling silver.

When jewellery is handmade by silversmiths you're buying a piece of history not just a piece of jewellery: 

• No two pieces are identical, you'll see subtle individuality in each piece
• The silver is solid, not coated
• Repairs and resizing are possible
• Longevity is prioritised - we make jewellery that's being passed down through generations

For customers specifically searching for UK handmade silver bangles, provenance and craftsmanship matter.

Is Sterling Silver Worth the Investment?

If you are looking for jewellery that will last a lifetime, can be resized for yourself or for others, can be polished back to perfection and retains it's intrisic value over time you'll want to purchase solid sterling silver jewellery. 

For everyday wear, especially bangles and rings that experience regular friction, solid silver performs significantly better than plated alternatives.

At first glance, plated jewellery and sterling silver can look similar. Over time, the difference becomes obvious.

If you are building a jewellery collection designed to last, understanding material quality is essential. Choosing solid sterling silver from a reputable UK jeweller offers durability, longevity and confidence in your purchase.