With almost any silver or silverplate item, youll notice tiny stamped marks somewhere on the piece. These can take the form of pictures, words, names, letters, or numbers. It may help to have a magnifying glass and some silver polish handy. Use a cotton swab to gently polish the area near the mark.

What markings are on real silver?

American sterling silver is marked with one of the following hallmarks: “925,” “. 925,” or “S925.” the 925 indicates that the piece contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% other metals.

How can you tell if silver is Makers Mark?

From left to right: makers mark =symbol of silversmith or company; assay mark=symbol of the city in which silver content was tested, leopard head shown is London; standard mark=lion passant (looking forward) certified that silver content was 925/1000. A fifth mark, not shown, is a profile of the ruling king or queen.

How do you identify silver patterns?

How to Identify Your PatternAlmost all sterling silver is marked with the word sterling or the number 925. If the piece is marked with either of these, you can be certain its crafted of sterling.If its marked plated, electro-plated, or another version of this word, youll know its silverplate.More items

How do you read Hallmark?

Metal and fineness (purity) mark The metal and purity mark indicates the content of precious metal in the jewellery. The number corresponds to the fineness of the piece indicated in parts per thousand – the higher the number, the better the quality. These modern fineness symbols came into use after the year 2000.

What are the sterling silver markings?

Sterling silver (925): This is the standard for silver, identifying a silver item that is at least 92.5% silver mixed with copper to give it strength. Marks on these pieces include 925 or Sterling. Any mark indicating a higher silver content, such as 950, would also qualify as sterling.

How do you identify vintage silver?

If you notice a stamp on your antique silver, use a magnifying glass to inspect it closely. International sellers commonly use the numeric values, as they will indicate the percentage of fine silver that is found in the piece. For example, a piece stamped with 925 will indicate that the item is 92.5% silver.

How do I identify sterling silver?

Look for a Stamp/ Hallmark Look for a stamp with the symbols “Ster,” “925” or “Sterling Silver.” The 925 hallmark is the most crucial tip to determine if any piece you wish to buy is made of genuine sterling silver.

How can I tell if my silver is Sterling?

Look for a Stamp/ Hallmark Look for a stamp with the symbols “Ster,” “925” or “Sterling Silver.” The 925 hallmark is the most crucial tip to determine if any piece you wish to buy is made of genuine sterling silver.

How can you tell the difference between silver and sterling silver?

Look for markings or stamps on the silver. International sellers of silver will stamp silver as 925, 900 or 800. These numbers indicate the level of purity of the silver. Sterling silver has a purity of 92.5 percent or higher.

Is antique silver worth anything?

Sterling silver holds intrinsic value as a precious metal, but antique silver pieces can be even more valuable than their silver content would indicate. This added value depends on the craftsmanship, maker and desirability of the piece offered for sale, along with the venue where an item is sold.