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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
Meiji Japanese Cloisonne Turquoise Enamel Japanese Garden Vase Silver Wire
Located in Long Island City, NY
A high quality Japanese, late Meiji era, silver wire and enamel vase. The amphora shaped vase is adorned with polychrome enamel images of birds, trees, blossoming flowers, and screen...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century Japanese Meiji Vases

Materials

Enamel, Silver

Antique French Silver Horse Head Walking Cane Stick 19th Century 90cm 35.5inches
Located in London, GB
This is a fantastic antique French horse head silver topped walking stick, with .925 silver import mark, late 19th century in date. The striking stick features an ornate silver croo...
Category

Antique Late 19th Century French Sports Equipment and Memorabilia

Materials

Silver, Brass

Rare Vintge Barrel-Form Sterling Silver-Mounted Yellow Crystal Match Striker
Located in New York, NY
Rare, Vintage, Edwardian-Style, sterling silver-mounted, yellow threaded crystal, barrel-form match striker, London, year-hallmarked for 1987, Monarch Silversmiths - makers. The thre...
Category

Vintage 1980s English Edwardian Tobacco Accessories

Materials

Crystal, Sterling Silver

Butterfly Garden Ice Bucket by Emilia Castillo – Silverplate, Jasper & Turquoise
Located in Los Angeles, CA
This enchanting ice bucket by celebrated Mexican designer Emilia Castillo captures the whimsy of nature with its sculptural butterfly and vine motif. Crafted in silver plate, the pie...
Category

Vintage 1980s Mexican Modern Wine Coolers

Materials

Silver Plate, Brass

Vintage Silver Plated Butter Dish Snail EP Zinc Hong Kong 1960s
Located in Poperinge, BE
Vintage silver plated butter dish in the shape of a snail, including glass insert and knife, marked EP zinc alloy Hong Kong on the inside, circa 1960s. This vintage butter dish...
Category

Mid-20th Century Japanese Tableware

Materials

Silver Plate, Zinc

Stunning Modernist Solid / Sterling Silver Pill Box - 1988
Located in Bath, GB
A wonderfully crafted solid silver box, the lid decorated by a large flower surrounded by a series of smaller flowers, pretty as a picture and beautifully hand crafted. The lid fits...
Category

Vintage 1980s British Modern Decorative Boxes

Materials

Sterling Silver

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