Pure silver, also known as fine silver, is defined by its high silver content with minimal impurities.
Understanding Pure Silver
Fine silver, often referred to as "three nines fine," has a millesimal fineness of 999. This means it contains 99.9% silver, with the remaining 0.1% consisting of trace amounts of impurities. This high level of purity is what makes silver "pure."
Key Characteristics of Pure Silver:
- High Silver Content: Pure silver must contain at least 99.9% silver.
- Minimal Impurities: Only a tiny fraction (0.1%) is made up of other substances.
- Millesimal Fineness: It has a fineness of 999, denoting its purity level.
Practical Application:
- Bullion Bars: Fine silver is used to produce bullion bars, which are used in international commodities trading and for investment purposes. This is due to its well-defined and recognized purity standard.
Why is Purity Important?
Purity is crucial in silver, especially for investment and industrial applications. Here's why:
- Accurate Valuation: The higher the purity, the more accurately the silver can be valued.
- Standardized Trading: A consistent purity level ensures the smooth functioning of international markets.
- Industrial Uses: Certain industrial processes require specific silver purity levels for optimal performance.
Difference Between Sterling and Pure Silver
| Feature | Pure Silver | Sterling Silver |
|---|---|---|
| Silver Content | 99.9% | 92.5% |
| Impurities | 0.1% (trace) | 7.5% (often copper) |
| Fineness | 999 | 925 |
| Usage | Bullion, some industrial | Jewelry, silverware |
While sterling silver is popular for jewelry and silverware, it is not considered pure silver because it contains a significant proportion (7.5%) of other metals, often copper.
