Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
How can you tell silver from silver plating?
1 Answer

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
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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
By 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
$140 Sale Price
20% Off
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