A firestain and tarnish-resistant ternary alloy of silver, copper and germanium contains from more than 93.5 wt % to 95.5 wt % Ag, from 0.5 to 3 wt % Ge, optionally 0.5 wt % Zn and the remainder, apart from incidental ingredients (if any), impurities and grain refiner, copper. In order to further protect an article made from the alloy, it may be surface treated with an alkanethiol, alkyl thioglycollate, dialkyl sulphide or dialkyl disulphide. Embodiments of the above alloy exhibit relatively low elution of copper when subjected to a simulated sweat test.