Plain-Language Summary

Virginia law prohibits the sale or possession with intent to sell of merchandise marked as 'sterling,' 'sterling silver,' 'coin,' or 'coin silver' unless the metal content meets specific purity standards—925/1000 for sterling and 901/1000 for coin silver. Violations are classified as a Class 2 misdemeanor. The laws aim to prevent false advertising and ensure accurate representation of silver content in products.

Frequently Asked Questions

Under Virginia law, an item labeled 'sterling silver' must contain at least 92.5% pure silver (925/1000).

Selling silver items labeled as 'sterling' or 'coin' without meeting purity standards is a Class 2 misdemeanor in Virginia.

Yes, but they must be accurately labeled with their true silver content; otherwise, it is illegal and can result in misdemeanor charges.

Yes, any silver merchandise labeled as 'sterling' or 'coin silver' must meet the specified purity standards to comply with Virginia law.