Skip to main content
Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How can you tell silver from silver plating?

1 Answer
How can you tell silver from silver plating?
To tell silver from silver plating, try holding a strong magnet near the item. If the magnet is attracted to the piece, it is most likely silver-plated, as solid silver is unlikely to be magnetic. You can also check the hallmarks. Markings that say silver plate, EP, EPNS, EPBM or BP indicate plating. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer evaluate the piece. Explore a large selection of silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
Shop for Silver Furniture on 1stDibs
Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Vinaigrette Edward Smith 1884 19th Century
Located in London, GB
Sterling silver vinaigrette, by Edward Smith, Birmingham 1884, the cover, sides and base engraved with scrolled foliate decoration, parcel gilt interior and pierced and engraved gril...
Category

Antique 1880s Decorative Boxes

Materials

Silver

Pair of Antique Edwardian F&C Osler Teardrop Cut Glass Light Pendant Lamp C.1910
Located in London, GB
An elegantly matched pair of cut glass pendant lights made in England by F&C Osler. c.1900 Of beautiful design and form, teardrop shaped hand-cut glass shade. Incredibly high qu...
Category

Vintage 1910s English Art Nouveau Chandeliers and Pendants

Materials

Silver Plate, Brass

Monumental Wilhelm Kåge Argenta Vase, Gustavsberg, Sweden, circa 1930
Located in Stockholm, SE
An exceptionally rare and monumental Argenta vase designed by Wilhelm Kåge for Gustavsberg, Sweden, circa 1930. This striking example represents one of the largest and most impressiv...
Category

Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases

Materials

Sterling Silver

Antique English Silver Topped Walking Stick Cane 99cm / 39 inches
Located in London, GB
This is a beautiful sturdy antique English silver pommel handled walking stick, circa 1860 in date. The striking stick features an ornate embossed silver knop cast and chased with s...
Category

Antique 1860s English Sports Equipment and Memorabilia

Materials

Silver

Antique French Art Nouveau Silver Topped Walking Cane Stick 19th Century
Located in London, GB
This is a superb antique French Art Nouveau silver tau-handle walking stick, Circa 1890 in date. The striking stick features an ornate silver tau-handle embossed with lily pads and ...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Art Nouveau Sports Equipment and Memora...

Materials

Silver

Pair of Art Deco Four-Arm Silver-Plated Candelabra by Just Andersen for GAB 1930
Located in Stockholm, SE
A beautifully balanced pair of four-arm silver-plated candelabra designed by Danish sculptor and designer Just Andersen for GAB (Guldsmedsaktiebolaget), Sweden, circa 1930s. These s...
Category

Vintage 1930s Swedish Scandinavian Modern Candelabras

Materials

Silver Plate

Shop All