Question 1

Why is sterling silver called sterling?

Accepted Answer

Opinions differ as to why sterling silver is called sterling. Some scholars believe that the name comes from the term Easterlings, referring to coin makers who relocated from Germany to England in the 12th century. Others say that sterling is a derivation of Starling, the name of the one-penny silver coin in circulation in 1300 when King Edward I issued a decree that all silver articles were to be at least 92.5% pure silver. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of sterling silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects.

Question 2

Is Thai silver sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Most thai silver has more pure silver in it than standard sterling silver. Most sterling silver is 92.5% silver with another alloy, typically copper, making up the rest of the metal. Thai silver often falls in the range of 97.5-99% pure silver, so a significantly higher percentage of it is pure silver, making it softer and less likely to tarnish. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary silver jewelry from top sellers around the world.

Question 3

Why is sterling silver so cheap?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is so cheap because of two main factors. First, it contains just 92.5% pure silver, so the cost of raw materials to produce it is lower than that of other types of silver. Second, the supply of silver is generally greater than that of other precious metals like gold and platinum, leading to lower prices. Explore a collection of sterling silver jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 4

What is sterling silver made of?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy. Depending on the composition, the alloy may be nickel, copper, brass or other metals. On 1stDibs, find a variety of sterling silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects.

Question 5

What is bad for sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

The worst substances for sterling silver are chlorine, chlorine bleach, and ammonia, all of which will cause tarnish and accelerate corrosion. You should also avoid household cleaners, rubber, and perspiration. Rinse your sterling silver pieces thoroughly after coming into contact with those substances. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of sterling silver pieces from top sellers worldwide.

Question 6

What is antique sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is an alloyed form of silver, and is made up of 92.5% fine silver and 7.5% copper. An antique sterling silver item will have the same silver content and will be over 100 years old. Shop a collection of expertly vetted antique sterling silver from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is a sterling silver Vesta?

Accepted Answer

A Vesta is a type of small case used to carry matches for smoking, while sterling silver is a precious metal made by combining pure silver with an alloy. Therefore, a sterling silver Vesta is one fabricated out of this kind of metal. Find a collection of Vesta containers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

How do I identify sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

To identify sterling silver, look for hallmarks in an inconspicuous area, such as the underside of flatware handles, the bottoms of serveware and the interior or clasp areas of jewelry. Pieces made of sterling silver often feature "925" or ".925" markings. Alternatively, they may feature "Sterling" or "STER" stamps. For assistance determining what type of metal a particular piece is, consult a knowledgeable expert, such as a certified appraiser. Shop a diverse assortment of sterling silver jewelry, flatware, tableware and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 9

Is sterling silver real silver or fake?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is real silver, not fake. However, it is not solid silver. A piece of sterling silver usually contains 92.5% pure silver, and the remainder of its content comes from base metals. Sterling silver is a popular material for jewelry because it is durable and resists tarnishing. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of sterling silver jewelry.

Question 10

What's the difference between silver and sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

The difference between silver and sterling silver is its composition. Silver is a general term used to describe metal that is rich in or made completely of the element silver. Sterling silver is a specific alloy with 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like nickel or brass. Fine silver is the term for 99.9% pure silver. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of silver jewelry, watches, tableware and decorative accents.

Question 11

Are sterling-silver spoons solid silver?

Accepted Answer

A sterling silver spoon is mostly fine silver, but not quite solid silver. Sterling silver is an alloyed form of silver, and is 92.5% fine silver and 7.5% copper. You can shop a collection of authentic sterling silver items from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Can you shower with 925 sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Although you can shower with 925 sterling silver jewelry on, it is better to remove it prior to bathing. Exposure to water is unlikely to damage the metal, especially if you dry it off promptly after you shower. However, chemicals found in soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner and other personal care products could react with the precious metal and cause tarnishing. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of sterling silver jewelry.

Question 13

How can I tell if sterling silver is antique?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is considered antique if it was made over 100 years ago. Many antique sterling silver items will have a mark or stamp. First, clean the item and check for marks. A “925” mark indicates a silver purity of 92.5 percent, which is the composition of sterling silver. If you don’t see a mark, work with a certified appraiser to acid test the item and determine the silver content. You’ll find expertly vetted antique sterling silver items on 1stDibs.

Question 14

What is the most expensive sterling silver flatware?

Accepted Answer

The most expensive sterling silver flatware is said to be Grand Baroque by Wallace. Sterling silver is a combination of pure silver and copper in a 92.5% and 7.5% ratio. Sterling silver is more valuable because of the silver content. In addition, the age, design, and attractiveness of the silverware may mean its value far exceeds the silver value. Sterling silver flatware with ivory handles is always the most valuable. Find a collection of antique and vintage sterling silver flatware from different creators on 1stDibs today.

Question 15

Is Reed and Barton sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Reed & Barton pieces are made of sterling silver. The American brand was founded in 1824 and is highly regarded as one of the highest quality silver manufacturers in the world. The brand also makes more affordable silver-plated items too.

Question 16

Is sterling silver OK for earrings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sterling silver is okay for earrings. In fact, many people love earrings crafted out of the precious metal. Sterling silver has an appealing cool color and noticeable shine. Plus, the metal is durable, so it can resist scratching when worn frequently. Keep in mind that sterling silver earrings will need regular cleaning and polishing to fight tarnishing. Explore a diverse assortment of sterling silver earrings on 1stDibs.

Question 17

Is sterling silver good for earrings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sterling silver can be good for earrings. Many people appreciate the appearance of sterling silver due to its cool color. In addition, sterling silver resists wear and tear to help earrings stand the test of time. One thing to keep in mind is that silver can tarnish, so you'll likely need to regularly clean and polish your earrings to keep them looking like new. Shop a variety of sterling silver earrings on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Is sterling silverware solid silver?

Accepted Answer

No, sterling silver, no matter what it’s used to make, is not solid silver. In most countries, the sterling standard is 92.5% silver with an additive alloy, usually copper, making up the rest of the sterling silver. Sterling silver is harder than pure silver and much more useful as tableware. Shop a collection of sterling silver from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 19

Is sterling silver a good quality?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is a very good quality alloy because the added metals make it very durable, even more so than gold. Because it is also lightweight it can be great for everyday wear.

Question 20

Is it worth selling sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Whether it's worth selling sterling silver depends on your personal preferences and the current market conditions. The price of sterling silver fluctuates over time, so it's a good idea to research the current rates before you sell. In some cases, sterling silver jewelry, tableware or decorative objects may be worth more than the market rate for sterling silver due to their age, maker and rarity. As a result, you may wish to consult a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antique dealer before you sell. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of sterling silver pieces.

Sterling Silver Container

2010s Italian Sterling Silver

Antique 19th Century English Victorian Sterling Silver

Antique 19th Century German Sterling Silver

Antique 1810s Ukrainian Sterling Silver

Antique Early 19th Century Polish Sterling Silver

Antique 1830s Polish Sterling Silver

Antique 19th Century Polish Sterling Silver

Antique Late 19th Century Austrian Sterling Silver

Antique Early 1800s Russian Sterling Silver

2010s American Sterling Silver

Vintage 1930s Egyptian Sterling Silver

Vintage 1910s English Bottles

Vintage 1910s American Arts and Crafts Cigar Boxes and Humidors

Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern Barware

2010s Italian Decorative Boxes

Antique 19th Century English Decorative Boxes

Vintage 1960s Danish Decorative Boxes

Recent Sales

Vintage 1970s European Sterling Silver

Antique 19th Century Serving Pieces

Antique 19th Century Serving Pieces

Early 20th Century American Boxes

Antique 19th Century Indian Metalwork

Mid-20th Century English Sterling Silver

Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Sterling Silver

Antique Early 1900s British Sterling Silver

Antique Early 1900s Hungarian Sterling Silver

Antique 19th Century Polish Sterling Silver

Vintage 1910s Israeli Arts and Crafts Sterling Silver

Antique Early 19th Century Polish Sterling Silver

20th Century Irish Barware

20th Century Decorative Boxes

1990s Italian Modern Decorative Boxes

1990s American Chinoiserie Decorative Boxes

Late 20th Century Israeli Modern Decorative Boxes

Early 20th Century American Arts and Crafts Tea Caddies

Antique Late 19th Century English Tableware

Vintage 1970s American Modern Religious Items

Mid-20th Century American Decorative Boxes

20th Century American Modern Decorative Boxes

Antique Early 19th Century English Tea Caddies

Vintage 1910s French Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Vintage 1910s French Art Deco Decorative Boxes

Vintage 1980s Israeli Religious Items

English Decorative Objects

Mid-20th Century English Sterling Silver

Antique Early 1900s English Late Victorian Sterling Silver

Vintage 1960s Italian Baroque Decorative Boxes

Late 20th Century Post-Modern Figurative Sculptures

Early 20th Century English Sterling Silver

Antique 1750s German Baroque Sterling Silver

Antique Mid-19th Century Turkish Islamic Sterling Silver

Mid-20th Century English More Dining and Entertaining

Vintage 1920s Danish Art Deco Inkwells

Antique 19th Century French Decorative Boxes

Antique 19th Century British Jewelry Boxes

Mid-20th Century Danish Art Deco Sterling Silver

People Also Browsed

Early 20th Century German Arts and Crafts Sterling Silver

2010s American Modern Console Tables

Mid-20th Century Italian Mid-Century Modern Chandeliers and Pendants

Early 20th Century French Art Deco Table Clocks and Desk Clocks

Antique 15th Century and Earlier German Decorative Art

2010s British Louis XVI Sofas

Vintage 1970s Italian Baroque Sterling Silver

Antique 19th Century English Chippendale Mantel Mirrors and Fireplace Mi...

2010s Italian Other Wall Mirrors

Antique Early 1900s British Art Nouveau Picture Frames

Antique Early 1800s American American Colonial Corner Cupboards

Antique Early 1900s French Belle Époque Chandeliers and Pendants

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Israeli Classical Roman Religious Items

Antique 1810s English George III Center Tables

2010s American Modern Wardrobes and Armoires

Antique 19th Century Swiss Black Forest Mantel Clocks

Sterling Silver Container For Sale on 1stDibs

How Much is a Sterling Silver Container?