Sterling Flatware Identification
Sterling silver flatware is identifiable by marks that are usually located on the handles of individual utensils. New sterling silver flatware made in the United States is always marked "sterling," "925" or "925/100." Older sterling flatware or flatware made in other countries may be more difficult to identify and may require research or the assistance of a professional. Many people confuse sterling silver flatware with an inferior type of flatware, silver plate. Sterling silver flatware requires special care and handling. Does this Spark an idea?
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Facts
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Sterling silver flatware refers to dining utensils made of sterling silver. Sterling silver is a mixture of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent of another metal, usually copper. This additional metal is necessary because silver alone is too soft to use for flatware, although silver is inherently germ resistant. Sterling silver flatware has been used for many centuries and comes in many different styles and patterns.
New Sterling Flatware
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New sterling silver flatware made in the Unites States is easy to identify. These pieces are stamped with "sterling," "925" or "925/100." This mark is usually found on the back of the handle of the flatware pieces. The "925" refers to the fact that sterling silver is 925 out of 1,000 parts pure silver. Additionally, sterling silver may also be stamped with the logo of its manufacturer. There are strict laws governing the labeling of sterling flatware, and you can be assured if you purchase from a reputable source you will be receiving authentic merchandise.
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Old Sterling Flatware
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Depending on the age and origin of your sterling flatware, it may not be stamped with "925," "sterling" or "925/100." This does not mean it is not sterling quality; it simply may be too old or from another country. These stamps were only required in the United States after the National Stamping Act of 1906 was passed. Older sterling flatware should have some sort of hallmark, which is a logo or name identifying the company that made it. A professional antiques dealer is usually well versed in these hallmarks, and there are many online databases that identify these marks as well. The site www.925-1000 has a comprehensive listing of many older hallmarks. If you still can't identify your flatware as sterling silver, you may be able to have it tested by a jeweler to identify its composition.
Considerations
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Once you've identified your flatware as sterling silver, special care should be taken to maintain its luster and shine. Hand washing is recommended, but keep it separated from non-sterling metals or spotting will occur. Sterling silver flatware requires polishing on a regular basis because it develops a black tarnish on its surface due to oxidization. Use only a cleaner formulated for silver. You can minimize tarnishing by keeping the silverware tightly wrapped. Always polish your silver with a very soft cloth to avoid scratching the surface.
Warnings
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Sterling silver is not held to the same standards worldwide. For example, sterling silver flatware in Iran is not considered as high quality as sterling silver made in the United States. Iran's requirement for the amount of pure silver is only 840 out of 1,000 parts, compared with the United States' requirement of 925 out of 1,000 parts. Additionally, many people confuse silver plate flatware with sterling silver flatware. Although they can look identical, silver plate flatware is inferior. Silver plate flatware contains only a small amount of sterling or a less pure silver alloy plated around a metal core. This layer of silver can wear off or scratch, exposing the less expensive metal underneath.
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References
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- Photo Credit All photos by Glamour Goes Green
