Question 1

Is Thai silver sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Most thai silver has more pure silver in it than standard sterling silver. Most sterling silver is 92.5% silver with another alloy, typically copper, making up the rest of the metal. Thai silver often falls in the range of 97.5-99% pure silver, so a significantly higher percentage of it is pure silver, making it softer and less likely to tarnish. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary silver jewelry from top sellers around the world.

Question 2

What is sterling silver made of?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy. Depending on the composition, the alloy may be nickel, copper, brass or other metals. On 1stDibs, find a variety of sterling silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects.

Question 3

What is bad for sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

The worst substances for sterling silver are chlorine, chlorine bleach, and ammonia, all of which will cause tarnish and accelerate corrosion. You should also avoid household cleaners, rubber, and perspiration. Rinse your sterling silver pieces thoroughly after coming into contact with those substances. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of sterling silver pieces from top sellers worldwide.

Question 4

What is a sterling silver Vesta?

Accepted Answer

A Vesta is a type of small case used to carry matches for smoking, while sterling silver is a precious metal made by combining pure silver with an alloy. Therefore, a sterling silver Vesta is one fabricated out of this kind of metal. Find a collection of Vesta containers on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is antique sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is an alloyed form of silver, and is made up of 92.5% fine silver and 7.5% copper. An antique sterling silver item will have the same silver content and will be over 100 years old. Shop a collection of expertly vetted antique sterling silver from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 6

How do I identify sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

To identify sterling silver, look for hallmarks in an inconspicuous area, such as the underside of flatware handles, the bottoms of serveware and the interior or clasp areas of jewelry. Pieces made of sterling silver often feature "925" or ".925" markings. Alternatively, they may feature "Sterling" or "STER" stamps. For assistance determining what type of metal a particular piece is, consult a knowledgeable expert, such as a certified appraiser. Shop a diverse assortment of sterling silver jewelry, flatware, tableware and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What's the difference between silver and sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

The difference between silver and sterling silver is its composition. Silver is a general term used to describe metal that is rich in or made completely of the element silver. Sterling silver is a specific alloy with 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like nickel or brass. Fine silver is the term for 99.9% pure silver. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of silver jewelry, watches, tableware and decorative accents.

Question 8

Is sterling silver real silver or fake?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is real silver, not fake. However, it is not solid silver. A piece of sterling silver usually contains 92.5% pure silver, and the remainder of its content comes from base metals. Sterling silver is a popular material for jewelry because it is durable and resists tarnishing. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of sterling silver jewelry.

Question 9

Are sterling-silver spoons solid silver?

Accepted Answer

A sterling silver spoon is mostly fine silver, but not quite solid silver. Sterling silver is an alloyed form of silver, and is 92.5% fine silver and 7.5% copper. You can shop a collection of authentic sterling silver items from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 10

Is sterling silver OK for earrings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sterling silver is okay for earrings. In fact, many people love earrings crafted out of the precious metal. Sterling silver has an appealing cool color and noticeable shine. Plus, the metal is durable, so it can resist scratching when worn frequently. Keep in mind that sterling silver earrings will need regular cleaning and polishing to fight tarnishing. Explore a diverse assortment of sterling silver earrings on 1stDibs.

Question 11

Is sterling silver good for earrings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sterling silver can be good for earrings. Many people appreciate the appearance of sterling silver due to its cool color. In addition, sterling silver resists wear and tear to help earrings stand the test of time. One thing to keep in mind is that silver can tarnish, so you'll likely need to regularly clean and polish your earrings to keep them looking like new. Shop a variety of sterling silver earrings on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Can you shower with 925 sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Although you can shower with 925 sterling silver jewelry on, it is better to remove it prior to bathing. Exposure to water is unlikely to damage the metal, especially if you dry it off promptly after you shower. However, chemicals found in soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner and other personal care products could react with the precious metal and cause tarnishing. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of sterling silver jewelry.

Question 13

Is Gorham sterling real silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Gorham sterling is real silver. However, sterling silver is not solid silver. Instead, the metal is an alloy formed out of pure silver and another precious metal. You can shop a selection of Gorham decorative objects and serveware on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Is Reed and Barton sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Reed & Barton pieces are made of sterling silver. The American brand was founded in 1824 and is highly regarded as one of the highest quality silver manufacturers in the world. The brand also makes more affordable silver-plated items too.

Question 15

Is sterling silverware solid silver?

Accepted Answer

No, sterling silver, no matter what it’s used to make, is not solid silver. In most countries, the sterling standard is 92.5% silver with an additive alloy, usually copper, making up the rest of the sterling silver. Sterling silver is harder than pure silver and much more useful as tableware. Shop a collection of sterling silver from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 16

Is sterling silver a good quality?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is a very good quality alloy because the added metals make it very durable, even more so than gold. Because it is also lightweight it can be great for everyday wear.

Question 17

Does Tiffany’s use sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Tiffany & Co. uses sterling silver. According to their website, they were one of the first American companies to institute the .925 sterling silver standard in 1851. Sterling silver is a precious metal that may require cleaning to retain its beauty and character for generations. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary Tiffany & Co. silver from top sellers around the world.

Question 18

How can I tell if sterling silver is antique?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is considered antique if it was made over 100 years ago. Many antique sterling silver items will have a mark or stamp. First, clean the item and check for marks. A “925” mark indicates a silver purity of 92.5 percent, which is the composition of sterling silver. If you don’t see a mark, work with a certified appraiser to acid test the item and determine the silver content. You’ll find expertly vetted antique sterling silver items on 1stDibs.

Question 19

What is the most expensive sterling silver flatware?

Accepted Answer

The most expensive sterling silver flatware is said to be Grand Baroque by Wallace. Sterling silver is a combination of pure silver and copper in a 92.5% and 7.5% ratio. Sterling silver is more valuable because of the silver content. In addition, the age, design, and attractiveness of the silverware may mean its value far exceeds the silver value. Sterling silver flatware with ivory handles is always the most valuable. Find a collection of antique and vintage sterling silver flatware from different creators on 1stDibs today.

Question 20

How do I clean weighted sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

To clean weighted sterling silver, use a cleaning product formulated for sterling silver and a soft lint-free cloth. Keep dust at bay by wiping the object down with a soft cloth dampened with warm water. Always dry the silver with a soft towel after cleaning. Find a collection of weighted sterling silver decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Lancaster Sterling Silver

Vintage 1920s English Arts and Crafts Sterling Silver

Antique Cooper Brothers Arts & Crafts Style Sterling Silver Centerpiece

Antique 1860s English Georgian Sterling Silver

Very Rare 1867 Asprey & Co. Coromandel Dressing Table Box Sterling Silver Pearl

Antique 1680s British Sterling Silver

Antique 17th century round circular patch box with Tudor rose

20th Century Mexican Modern Collectible Jewelry

Hammered Sterling Cuff Choker Necklace with Malachite

Early 20th Century American Edwardian Barware

Pair of Gorham Lancaster Sterling Silver Ice Tongs

Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Sterling Silver

Set of 4 English Edwardian Figural Wise Bird Owl Place Card Holders

People Also Browsed

Vintage 1960s Czech Mid-Century Modern Glass

Set of 14 Vintage Christmas Glass Ornaments, Czechoslovakia, 1960s

Early 20th Century American Sterling Silver

J. E. Caldwell Sterling Silver 8-Piece Tea & Coffee Set with Tray Early 20th C

2010s South African Modern Chairs

Modern Genuine Ochre Soft Leather Tan Sling - Swing Chair

1990s Outsider Art Abstract Paintings

Purvis YoungLarge Collage Painting Miami Outsider Artist Purvis Young Abstract Outsider Art, c.1990's

Antique 1780s English George III Desks and Writing Tables

English Satinwood & Leather Top Brass Mounted Six Drawer Partners Desk, C 1780

Early 20th Century French Louis XVI Tea Sets

Christofle (Gallia) - 5pc. French Antique Silver Plate Tea Set, Museum Quality.

Vintage 1960s English Dinner Plates

Collectible Blue and White Royal Tudor Ware England Plate

1990s Italian Modern Toys and Dolls

Barbie Marilyn Monroe, Hollywood Legends Collection Doll

Antique 19th Century British Victorian Candlesticks

Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Candlestick, Corinthian Column

21st Century and Contemporary Portuguese Modern Sofas

Modern Twins Outdoors Sofa, Beige Woven, Handmade in Portugal by Greenapple

20th Century American Sterling Silver

Set of 9 American Sterling Silver Christmas Snowflake Ornaments

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Glass

Set of Eight Pauly & Co. Light Amber Etched Venetian or Murano Glass Plates

Mid-20th Century Collectible Jewelry

5 Vintage Taxco Mexico Southwestern Sterling Silver 925 Brooch Pins 54g

Mid-20th Century Swedish Scandinavian Modern Sterling Silver

Carl Gustaf Jahnsson Sterling Silver Three-Piece Coffee Service, Sweden 1958

1940s Modern Still-life Prints

(after) Henri MatisseLithograph - Flowers, 1943

Antique 1780s English George III Tea Caddies

Antique Georgian Locking Sterling Silver Tea Caddy Henry Chawner London 1787

Recent Sales

20th Century American Regency Sterling Silver

Poole Sterling Lancaster Rose 64 Oz, Water Pitcher

Antique 1890s Sterling Silver

Lancaster by Gorham Sterling Silver Flatware Set for 8 Service 64 Pcs Dinner

Antique 1890s Sterling Silver

Lancaster Rose by Gorham Sterling Silver Flatware Set 12 Service 102 Pcs Dinner

Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Sterling Silver

1900s Edwardian Sterling Silver Presentation Hors D'Oeuvres Dish

Vintage 1920s English Arts and Crafts Sterling Silver

Sterling Silver Inkwell by Omar Ramsden, Arts and Crafts Style, Antique George

Antique 18th Century English Dressers

English 18th Century Oak Dresser Base with 6 Drawers & 2 Cabinet Doors

Antique 1890s Sterling Silver

Lancaster by Gorham Sterling Silver Flatware Set for 12 Service 172 Pcs Superb

Vintage 1910s English Arts and Crafts Planters, Cachepots and Jardinières

Antique Arts & Crafts Style 1916 Sterling Silver Jardinière or Bowl

Read More

How the Chunky, Funky Ceramics of 5 Mid-Century American Artists Balanced Out Slick Modernism

Ready for a Cinderella Moment? This Glass Handbag Is a Perfect Fit

With Dansk, Jens Quistgaard Delivered Danish Simplicity to American Tables

Hostess Extraordinaire Aerin Lauder Shares Entertaining Tips and Auction Picks

Handmade with Lab-Grade Glass, This Decanter Holds Your Favorite Cocktail Concoctions

28 Cheerful Home Bars, Where Everybody (Literally) Knows Your Name

Meet the Celebrated Hostess Whose Magical Tabletops Enhance Every Occasion

How to Identify Real Capodimonte Porcelain

More Ways To Browse

Purvis Young
Large Collage Painting Miami Outsider Artist Purvis Young Abstract Outsider Art, c.1990's

(after) Henri Matisse
Lithograph - Flowers, 1943