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

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 9

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 10

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 11

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 12

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 13

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 14

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 15

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 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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.

Question 20

How do I identify Gorham sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

To identify Gorham sterling silver, study the marks found on the piece. Pieces made after 1848 will have a letter or symbol stamp. You can use an authoritative online reference to figure out the manufacturing year of the piece. Find a variety of expertly vetted Gorham sterling silver on 1stDibs.

Elf Sterling Silver

20th Century Sterling Silver

Vintage Silver Elf On Mushroom Pendant Charm

Antique 1890s German Sterling Silver

Antique Late 19th Century German 930, Silver Rococo Lady's Shoe with Elf Toe

Mid-20th Century Collectible Jewelry

5 Southwestern Sterling Silver Cufflinks Sun Cowboy Hat Elf Roadrunner

20th Century Figurines and Sculptures

Gorham Sterling Silver 1977 Santa's Helper Elf Ornament w/Box & Pouch #15821

Antique Early 1900s German Edwardian Sterling Silver

Antique German Sterling Silver Lady's Shoe with Elf Toe

People Also Browsed

1990s Cuff Bracelets

1990s Cartier Inspired Rhinestone Panther Cuff Bracelet

1990s French Wrist Watches

Cartier Tank Must GM Golden Black Precious

Vintage 1930s French Art Deco Animal Sculptures

Maurice Guiraud Rivière & Etling Paris Cowboy at the Rodeo Art Deco Statue

Antique 19th Century English Neoclassical Candle Holders

Gilded Bronze & Blue John Candleabra in the Manner of Matthew Boulton

Vintage 1940s American Country Table Lamps

Original Vintage A. Brandt Ranch Oak Wagon Wheel Western-Cowboy Table Lamp

Vintage 1970s American Clip-on Earrings

Vintage 1970s Signed Crown Trifari Off White Lucite Flower Drop Clip Earrings

Vintage 1970s American Modern Brooches

Vintage Satin Gold Abstract Brooch by Monet, circa 1970s

Antique Late 19th Century Victorian Tea Sets

2 Antique Meissen German Porcelain Lidded Chocolate Tea Cups & Saucers on Stands

Vintage 1940s American American Craftsman Side Tables

Vintage American Ranch Oak Side Table or End Table Wagon Wheel Design

Vintage 1950s American Art Deco Brooches

Crown Trifari 1950s Round Circle White Pearls Openwork Criss Cross Gold Brooch

Vintage 1970s French Clip-on Earrings

Chanel 1970s Rare Collectors Gripoix Earrings

20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Figurative Sculptures

Whimsical Nail Brass Sculpture Cowboy & Cactus on a Fence circa 1970's

1960s French Scarves

Hermes 1960s La Rosee Silk Shawl

Vintage 1960s Italian Mid-Century Modern Vases

Blenko Glass Top Cowboy Hat

Vintage 1970s Beaded Bracelets

1970s Jade Jadeite Beaded Bracelet

Antique 19th Century British Porcelain

A Chamberlain Worcester Sir John Hullock Breakfast Cup & Saucer

Recent Sales

20th Century More Dining and Entertaining

Four Sterling Silver Sugar or Salt Spoons

More Ways To Browse