Auctioneer Practice Exam

Fine silver is recognized for its high purity, which is quantified as 99.9% pure silver. This level of purity indicates that there are very few impurities or other metals mixed in with the silver, making it an ideal material for various applications, including jewelry and coins, where the value and quality of the silver are critical. When silver reaches 99.9% purity, it is often referred to as "three nines" fine silver. This level of purity ensures that the silver retains its brilliant luster and is more resistant to tarnishing compared to lower purities. In contrast, silver that is deemed to be 925 (sterling silver) consists of 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals, typically copper, to enhance its strength and durability. This highlights that 100% purity in practice is virtually unattainable due to the inherent nature of metals and their susceptibility to minor impurities. Thus, the designation of fine silver as 99.9% pure is firmly established in the jewelry and precious metal industries, making it the correct answer to the question posed.