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Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How can you tell if something is silver-plated or solid silver?

1 Answer
How can you tell if something is silver-plated or solid silver?
To tell if something is silver-plated or solid silver, put a magnet near it. Solid silver won't attract the magnet. However, the base metals used to produce silver-plated pieces often will. If the magnet test is inconclusive, a certified appraiser or knowledgeable expert can help you. On 1stDibs, explore a diverse assortment of silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects.
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 9, 2024
Shop for Silver Decorative Objects on 1stDibs
Wilhelm Kåge Argenta Bowl with Silver Fish Relief, Gustavsberg, Sweden 1930's
Located in Stockholm, SE
A striking Art Deco ceramic bowl designed by Wilhelm Kåge for Gustavsberg, Sweden, circa 1930s. This exceptional example from the celebrated Argenta series features a rich, mottled e...
Category

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Decorative Bowls

Materials

Sterling Silver

Tiffany & Co. Art Deco Sterling Silver Picture Frame
Located in South Bend, IN
A gorgeous vintage Art Deco sterling silver picture frame By Tiffany & Co. (signed to the back) USA, Circa Mid-20th Century Measures: 5"W x 3.75"D x 7"H. Good original vintage co...
Category

Mid-20th Century American Arts and Crafts Picture Frames

Materials

Sterling Silver

Silver Cased Compensated Weather Barometer Superb Royal Provenance Alfred Clark
Located in Dublin, Ireland
This is a very Rare and Superbly made Sterling Silver Cased Compensated Weather Barometer – The Silver Assay Marks inform us that it was made in 1900 by the famed Silversmith, Alfred...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Scientific Instruments

Materials

Sterling Silver

Antique English Novelty Walnut Sterling Silver Box - 1899 by Sampson Mordan
Located in Bath, GB
The box is modelled in the form of a Walnut beautifully crafted to be expected by this venerable silversmith. The box is hinged in full working order and retaining it's lavishly gil...
Category

Antique 1890s British Late Victorian Decorative Boxes

Materials

Sterling Silver

Monumental Emilia Castillo Centerpiece Bowl, Silver Plated & Gem Stones, Mexico
Located in Los Angeles, CA
Striking vintage decorative bowl designed and manufactured in the 1980s by Emilia Castillo, one of the most celebrated figures of modern Mexican silver design. The bowl is crafted in...
Category

Vintage 1980s Mexican Modern Decorative Bowls

Materials

Lapis Lazuli, Malachite, Silver, Silver Plate, Brass

Large Silver & Abalone Madonna Sculpture by Emilia Castillo for Los Castillo
Located in Los Angeles, CA
A striking mixed-media sculpture by Emilia Castillo for the renowned Los Castillo workshop in Taxco, celebrated for its mastery of modern Mexican silversmithing. This sculptural figu...
Category

Vintage 1980s Mexican Organic Modern Figurative Sculptures

Materials

Silver, Brass

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