sterling
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sterling silver
A short form for sterling silver, an alloy consisting of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, used for jewelry or cutlery.
Dieses antike Besteck ist aus echtem Sterling gefertigt.
This antique cutlery is made of genuine sterling silver.
To distinguish the meanings, pay attention to the context. If it is about jewelry, cutlery, or antiques, silver is meant. In a financial context with words like 'Wechselkurs' (exchange rate) or 'Währung' (currency), the pound sterling is meant.
Dieses alte Medaillon ist aus Sterling.
This old locket is made of sterling silver.
In the meaning 'Silber' (silver), 'Sterling' is often a short form for 'Sterlingsilber' (sterling silver). It describes a high-quality silver alloy and is often used for jewelry or cutlery.
Das Familienbesteck ist aus massivem Sterling.
The family cutlery is made of solid sterling silver.
As a term for the British currency, 'Sterling' (sterling) is rather rare and technical. You mainly find it in financial news or at banks.
Die Bank bietet den Umtausch von Euro in Sterling an.
The bank offers the exchange of euros into sterling.
silver
'das Silber' and 'das Sterling' can both have to do with jewelry or cutlery made of a silver-colored metal. 'Silber' is the general term for the metal or for things made from it. 'Sterling' more specifically means sterling silver, a particular alloy with 92.5 percent silver. The words can be confused when talking about rings, necklaces, or cutlery. In everyday language, people usually say 'Silber'. 'Sterling' is more suitable when the exact quality or material is important.
Auf dem Ring steht 925, deshalb ist er aus Sterling.
The ring is marked 925, so it is made of sterling silver.
Der alte Löffel ist aus Silber und glänzt noch sehr schön.
The old spoon is made of silver and still shines beautifully.