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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How can you tell if flatware is good quality?

1 Answer
How can you tell if flatware is good quality?
To tell if flatware is good quality, focus on the materials. Some of the finest genuine silver flatware is sterling silver, an alloy made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% base metals. Sterling silver resists tarnishing and scratching, making flatware capable of standing the test of time. If you're shopping for stainless steel flatware, pay attention to the chromium and nickel content, represented by two numbers separated by a forward slash. Generally, the highest quality stainless steel flatware is 18/10. Reading online reviews can also help you assess the quality of a makers flatware. Explore a wide range of flatware on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertOctober 24, 2024
Shop for Used Flatware on 1stDibs
Vintage Reed & Barton Sterling Silver Salt & Pepper Shakers Flatware Set
By Reed & Barton
Located in Houston, TX
Brand: Reed & Barton Metal Type: Sterling Silver Gender: Ladies Length: 4.00 inches Width: 2.25 inches Weight: 68.84 grams Silver vintage, SHAKERS . Engraved with "STERLING...
Category

Late 20th Century Flatware and Serving Pieces

Materials

Silver, Sterling Silver

“Grand Forest” 5-Piece Flatware Set in 925 Sterling Silver with Chest – Judaica
Located in München, DE
The “Grand Forest” collection flatware set is an exceptional expression of luxury table culture and refined silversmithing craftsmanship.
Category

2010s Italian Dinnerware and Flatware Sets

Materials

Sterling Silver

Signed Antique 3 Pc. Sun Shing Chinese Export Silver Spoons & Fork Flatware Set
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine set of antique Chinese export silver flatware. Consisting of two (differently sized) spoons and a dinner fork.
Category

Antique Early 19th Century Chinese Flatware and Serving Pieces

Materials

Silver, Gilt Metal

Pair of Antique English Sheffield Silverplate Wine or Champagne Coolers
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine pair of antique English wine coolers. Each wine cooler is plated with silver on copper, has a gadrooned top rim, tops and liners that seat fairly well, ornate twin handles, ...
Category

Antique 19th Century British Neoclassical Barware

Materials

Silver Plate

17th-18th cent. Baroque Berger Hansabeger Rattle Beaker Shot solid Silver/ 43gr
Located in SE
Handsome ca. 17 - 18th century Norwegian Hanseatic beaker also called a Berger to describe a footed drinking vessel that is stemmed or conical or slender tapering body widening into...
Category

Antique 17th Century Norwegian Baroque Barware

Materials

Silver

Antique Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Hair Receiver Hammered Vanity Jar
By Tiffany & Co.
Located in Westport, CT
Antique Tiffany & Co. sterling silver hair receiver, made in New York circa 1914–1930. This hand-hammered vanity piece features a squat bulbous form with a fitted lid and central...
Category

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Vases

Materials

Sterling Silver

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