Definition of 500 fine silver

Answer 1

500 silver (or 500 fine silver) means that it is 50% silver. The other 50% is usually copper or some other semi precious metal.

The reasoning behind the 500 is to be more exact in the amount.

Sterling silver is (by law) .925 (or greater) silver. Which is 92.5%

500 silver is 50.0% silver.

Answer 2

"500 fine silver" refers to a silver alloy that contains 50% pure silver and 50% other metals, such as copper. This means that the silver content is lower than in sterling silver, which contains 92.5% pure silver. Items made from 500 fine silver may not have the same level of quality or value as those made from higher-purity silver.