[Jewelry making - Article 00544] - Re: [Orchid] Sterling Silver Definition

[Jon]

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    I don't think it is true to state that the use of nickel is not
    allowed in European sterling (or other metals). As I understand the
    EC directive the use of nickel is broadly limited to 0.05% in
    jewellery alloys. (It's actually more complicated than that as the
    directive talks about release rates when in contact with skin and
    wounds. 

    I don't think the UK assay offices test for nickel, so I am not sure
    who polices the directive. Moreover, I think it is true to say that
    as long as an alloy contains at least 92.5% fine silver it can be
    hallmarked as sterling. 

    Argentium meets the 92.5% requirement and so can be hallmarked as
    925. 

Jon

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