What do you need to know about sterling silver flatware?
American-made flatware after the year 1906 will be stamped “925/1000,” “925” or “sterling.” This indicates that the flatware is made using 92.5 percent pure silver, the minimum amount required in the United States for an item to be called “sterling.” Once you have identified this mark, you have identified your flatware piece as sterling silver.
Where do you find the hallmark on sterling flatware?
Look for a hallmark on the backside of your piece of flatware with the magnifying glass. A hallmark is a stamp or engraving indicating the quality of the metal per the country of origin’s standards. American-made flatware after the year 1906 will be stamped “925/1000,” “925” or “sterling.”
How can I tell if my sterling silverware is vintage?
Older or foreign vintage sterling flatware may not be hallmarked, but it may be identified by maker’s marks and patterns. If all these methods fail or you want to verify the silver content of your flatware, have it tested. Look for a hallmark on the backside of your piece of flatware with the magnifying glass.
Is there any value to sterling silver tableware?
Sterling flatware always retains it intrinsic silver value & usually a value also as tableware. Silver plate has no intrinsic silver value. It is not worth the refining costs to try to redeem the silver. It has very little resale value as tableware.
American-made flatware after the year 1906 will be stamped “925/1000,” “925” or “sterling.” This indicates that the flatware is made using 92.5 percent pure silver, the minimum amount required in the United States for an item to be called “sterling.” Once you have identified this mark, you have identified your flatware piece as sterling silver.
Is it possible to read silver marks on flatware?
Silverware or flatware is almost always marked, and you can read silver marks on your tableware or flatware with a keen eye or a magnifying glass, particularly if you know where to look. You also need to know how to read the marks if you want to know the type of silver, silverplate or stainless you have.
Look for a hallmark on the backside of your piece of flatware with the magnifying glass. A hallmark is a stamp or engraving indicating the quality of the metal per the country of origin’s standards. American-made flatware after the year 1906 will be stamped “925/1000,” “925” or “sterling.”
Older or foreign vintage sterling flatware may not be hallmarked, but it may be identified by maker’s marks and patterns. If all these methods fail or you want to verify the silver content of your flatware, have it tested. Look for a hallmark on the backside of your piece of flatware with the magnifying glass.
