What does 925 mean on jewelry?

925 usually means its 925 silver jewellery sterling silver, custume jewelry is usually made of a base metal. The value of costume jewelry is based on condition, manufacturer, and detail/fashion and age. No some costume jewelry is valuable depending on the things mentioned above. Sterling silver is more valuable than just base metal which is a combination of nickle and other common metals but it is much softer than silver. Its hard to compare in a general statement because it depends on the particular piece you are comparing to.

Alot of fine jewelry today is made of sterling silver (925) and semi-precious and precious stones and it is not concidered costume. I believe costume is a term used when discribing fashion jewerly. 925 silver jewelry There are also many costume pieces of jewelry that are more expensive then "gold" pieces. I've seen necklaces costing over $25,000. and there not made of "gold".

If it isn't gold it's costume and even if it is gold it may be costume. Ask any jeweler. As stated above, value is determined by the same criteria as any other collectible. 925 silver ring factory