Types of Flatware Pieces

Flatware pieces have different metal properties.

An attractive table adds to the enjoyment of a meal. Part of creating an outstanding table setting involves choosing the right flatware pieces. Flatware pieces are the spoons, forks and knives used in either casual or formal dining. The three main types of flatware are stainless steel, sterling silver and silver plated. When Choosing particular types of flatware, examine factors such as price, durability and how the flatware should be washed.

18/8 Stainless Steel

Both 18/8 or 18/10 Stainless Steel flatware is considered a premium steel used in manufacturing the most expensive flatware brands (Flatware.org). The number "18" represents the 18 percent of chrome in the metal while the "8" or "10" stands for the nickel percentage in the steel. This flatware has a stamp on its backside so it's distinguished from other steels. Its chrome and nickel combination give the flatware pieces the look of permanent brilliance similar to sterling steel.

420 Stainless Steel

The other type of stainless steel is 420 Stainless Steel flatware. Also known in the steel industry as 13 chrome steel, it contains 13 percent chrome, notes Flatware.org. Although it wears well and is resistant to corrosion and rust, failing to properly care for this stainless flatware can cause pitting, which is a corrosion that produces holes in metal. Over time, it can lose its fresh new look.

Sterling Silver

Sterling silver flatware, also known as The Silver and other names, has at least 92.5 percent pure silver. Copper is contained in the remainder of sterling silver flatware, giving this type of flatware more strength. Flatware made with pure silver is too soft for jobs requiring strength, such as scooping ice cream. New sterling silver flatware can develop brown blemishes from being washed in dishwashers. Wash sterling silver pieces in sudsy warm water, rinsing and drying immediately.

Silverplated

Silver-plated flatware pieces, usually confused with sterling silver, are less expensive than other flatware. This flatware is manufactured from a pattern of good stainless steel and then bonded chemically with liquefied silver. Micros are used to measure it because its layers are extremely thin. While cheap silver-plated flatware contains between two to five microns of silver plating, the priciest silver-plated patterns consist of 60 microns, according to the Flatware website. In comparison, a human hair strand measures roughly 100 microns.

References

• Koehler Borden: Fast Facts on Flatware
• Flatware: Flatware, Silverware, Sterling, Stainless, Silverware
• Specialty Steel Supply: 420 Stainless Steel
• Michigan State University: Cleaning Silver Flatware