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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
Italian Lapis Lazuli, Rock Crystal, & Moss Agate Table Box, Vermeil Hinge, 1970s
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
Italian Lapis Lazuli, Rock Crystal, and Moss Agate Table Box with Vermeil Hinge, Circa 1970s A refined and sculptural Italian table box dating to the 1970s, expertly composed of thr...
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Modern Decorative Boxes

Materials

Agate, Lapis Lazuli, Rock Crystal, Silver

Art Deco Period Sterling Silver Table Box
Located in New York, NY
Art Deco Period, sterling silver table box, Poole Silver Co., Taunton, Mass., Ca. 1930's. Wood-lined. Measures 6 inches wide x 3 inches deep x 1 3/4 inches high. Underside is covered...
Category

Vintage 1930s American Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Materials

Sterling Silver

Silver Plate Fish Bottle Opener Designer Los Castillo
Located in New York, NY
A very beautiful, well-made, well designed silver-plate articulating fish bottle opener, Midcentury Modern, by designer Los Castillo, circa mid-20th century, 1960s, Mexico. This beau...
Category

Mid-20th Century Mexican Mid-Century Modern Barware

Materials

Silver Plate

Sterling Silver Necklace with Rutilated Quartz Pendant
Located in Warrenton, OR
Sterling Silver Necklace with Rutilated Quartz Pendant UPDATE: Due to agreement with 1stDibs, we'll be staying through the end of the year. This is a lovely, unique pendant necklace!...
Category

Mid-20th Century Unknown Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver

Materials

Quartz, Sterling Silver

Vintage MATL Matilde Poulat Gemstone Inlaid Silver Cross – Taxco Mexico, 1950s
Located in London, GB
Vintage MATL Matilde Poulat Gemstone Inlaid Silver Cross – Taxco Mexico, 1950s A stunning and collectible vintage silver cross pendant by renowned Mexican silversmith Matilde Poulat...
Category

20th Century American Native American Objects

Materials

Silver

Large Art Deco Style Silverplated Seated Bear Cocktail Shaker
Located in West Palm Beach, FL
A striking and imaginative silver-plated cocktail shaker in the form of a stylized seated bear, blending whimsical form with refined Art Deco elegance. This sculptural piece features...
Category

20th Century Art Deco Sheffield and Silverplate

Materials

Silver Plate

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