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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
Hermes, Paris - Silver Plated Novelty Dish / Vide Poche c.1960
Located in Bath, GB
A wonderful vintage vide poche (empty pocket) in silver plate comprising two parts, the dish itself and the golf ball on a stand. Both pieces are signed "Hermes Paris" and the dish ...
Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Decorative Dishes and Vide-Poche

Materials

Silver Plate

Antique French Art Deco Gilded Bar Cart / Serving Trolley Circa 1920 20th C
Located in London, GB
This is a striking and rare antique French Art Deco Gilt and glass bar cart, circa 1920 in date. The cart features an elegant, elongated hexagonal cabinet body built with a rich wal...
Category

Vintage 1920s French Art Deco Side Tables

Materials

Silver

Antique 1887 French Victorian Sterling Silver Oak Wood Cane Walking Stick 35"
Located in Dayton, OH
This antique Victorian presentation walking cane is crafted from solid oak and showcases exceptional historical character and craftsmanship. The cane features a slender, tapered oak ...
Category

Antique 1880s French Victorian Historical Memorabilia

Materials

Sterling Silver

Torah Book with Copper and Silver Binding, Société Encyclopédique Française 1966
Located in Atlanta, GA
A remarkable Torah volume produced by the Société Encyclopédique Française in 1966, distinguished by its copper and silver binding crafted after an 18th‑century Polish model. The cov...
Category

Vintage 1960s French Victorian Religious Items

Materials

Silver, Copper

Keyser & Sohn Silver-Plated Golden Retriever Sculpture, Germany, circa 1910–1920
Located in Knivsta, SE
Keyser & Sohn Silver-Plated Golden Retriever Sculpture, Germany, circa 1910–1920 A charming and elegant silver-plated metal sculpture depicting a reclining Golden Retriever, produce...
Category

Early 20th Century German Animal Sculptures

Materials

Silver Plate

Crab jewelry box, silver plated & alpaca, Spain, 1950's
Located in BARCELONA, ES
Exquisite sculptural crab form box realistically rendered, crafted in Spain, 1950's. Made to look like a real crab crawling with movement masterfully with sharp detail and execution....
Category

Vintage 1950s Spanish Mid-Century Modern Decorative Boxes

Materials

Silver Plate

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