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

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 4

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 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

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 10

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 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

Is Wallace Sterling real silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Wallace Sterling is real silver. Wallace produced silverware, tableware and decorative objects from sterling silver, which is 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% base metal. The silversmith introduced the Wallace Sterling collection in 1875. During the 1930s and ’40s, Wallace's ornate sterling silver flatware was especially popular. Explore a collection of Wallace Sterling pieces on 1stDibs.

Question 13

Is antique sterling silver valuable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some antique sterling silver is valuable. Sterling silver of any age has value as a material because it is a precious metal. Some pieces may be worth even more than the going rate for sterling due to their maker, style, type and condition. Some silversmiths whose pieces are often in demand among collectors include Tiffany & Co., Georg Jensen, Gorham Manufacturing Company and Towle. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique sterling silver wares.

Question 14

How do you tell if sterling silver is real?

Accepted Answer

To tell if sterling silver is real, put a magnet close to it. Genuine sterling silver isn't magnetic, so an attraction may indicate one of two things. First, your piece may be made entirely out of a different metal, or, secondly, it may be silver-plated, meaning it is composed of a thin layer of genuine sterling silver over a base metal. For assistance with the identification process, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or experienced jeweler. Shop a large selection of sterling silver jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 15

Is Gorham sterling real silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Gorham sterling is real silver. However, sterling silver is not solid silver. Instead, the metal is an alloy formed out of pure silver and another precious metal. You can shop a selection of Gorham decorative objects and serveware on 1stDibs.

Question 16

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 17

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 18

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 19

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 20

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.

Sterling Silver Hare

Antique 1890s English Late Victorian Sterling Silver

Sampson Mordan & Co. Victorian Silver Rabbit / Hare Pepperette, London, 1899

Early 20th Century English Edwardian Tableware

Gorham Sterling Silver Rabbit / Hare Place Card Holders in Original Case, 1913

Vintage 1970s English Mid-Century Modern Animal Sculptures

Sterling silver model of a hare made in 1972 by A. E. Jones

Recent Sales

2010s British Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Deakin & Francis Sterling Silver Brown Hare Pendant With Sapphire Eyes

Antique Early 1900s English Edwardian Sterling Silver

Edwardian Sterling Silver Novelty Pepper Pot Shaped as a Hare

Antique Early 1800s English George III Sterling Silver

George III Antique Silver 'Hare in Reeds' Vinaigrette, Samuel Pemberton, 1809

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Cufflinks

Boxing Hares Cufflink in Sterling Silver

2010s British Contemporary Cufflinks

Sterling Silver Brown Hare Cufflinks with Sapphire Eyes

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy Kinsella'Running Hare' Limited Edition Sterling Silver Sculpture by Lucy Kinsella, contemporary

21st Century and Contemporary British Contemporary Cufflinks

Boxing Hare Cufflinks in Sterling Silver with 18 Karat Vermeil

2010s Sculptures

Lucy Kinsella'Boxing Hares' Sterling Silver Limited Edition Sculpture by Lucy Kinsella

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy Kinsella'Seated Hare' Limited Edition Sterling Silver Sculpture by Lucy Kinsella, contemporary

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy Kinsella'Leaping Hares' Sterling Silver Limited Edition Sculpture by Lucy Kinsella, contemporary

Antique 1890s English Victorian Tableware

Antique Victorian Sterling Silver 'Hare' Pepperette

Antique 1890s British Victorian Animal Sculptures

Antique Victorian Sterling Silver Hare Sugar Box

Antique 1880s English Rococo Revival Sterling Silver

Antique Irish Sterling Silver Chalice Dog Hare Coursing Hunting Trophy Dublin

Antique Early 1900s English Victorian Sterling Silver

Antique Walking Stick Cane Silver Hare's Head Pommel by Brigg of London, 1902

2010s Italian Architectural Models

Hare Walking Stick By Bolcas

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaLucy Kinsella 'Running Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaLucy Kinsella 'Seated Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaLucy Kinsella 'Seated Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaLucy Kinsella 'Leaping Hares' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaLucy Kinsella 'Bunched Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaLucy Kinsella 'Bunched Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

2010s Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaLucy Kinsella 'Boxing Hares' Sterling Silver

2010s Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaLucy Kinsella 'Boxing Hares' sterling silver sculpture

2010s Contemporary Sculptures

Lucy KinsellaRunning Hare, contemporary

2010s British Contemporary Cufflinks

Sterling Silver Brown Hare Cufflinks with Sapphire Eyes

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Late 20th Century Italian Victorian Barware

Set of 6 Silver Stirrup Cups Goblets Animal Heads with Wine Decanter Italy 1970s

20th Century Italian Victorian Tableware

Wild Elegance: Blue Glass Salt Cellars with Hunt Game Place Card Holders

20th Century Danish Victorian Books

Library of Antique Leatherbound Books

Vintage 1970s German Post-Modern Bookcases

Modular 'Profilsystem' Wall Unit with Diverse Storage Compartments in Green

Antique Late 19th Century European Moorish Architectural Elements

Mid-Victorian Moorish wrought & cast iron pergola or decorative garden structure

Antique Mid-19th Century English High Victorian Taxidermy

Rare Victorian Firescreen with Taxidermy Hummingbirds by Henry Ward

Antique 15th Century and Earlier Uruguayan Natural Specimens

Impressive Amethyst Geode with Large Calcite

Early 20th Century American American Classical Sterling Silver

Tiffany & Company, George Paulding Farnham, A Rare, Lavish Silver Centerpiece

Antique Mid-17th Century German Renaissance Cabinets

A 17th century Augsburg ebonized cabinet with painted pietra paesina panels

Mid-20th Century Spanish Mid-Century Modern Tableware

Silver Owl Mustard Pot with Unusual Green Eyes & Snail Serving Spoon, c. 1930

Antique Early 1900s Edwardian Sterling Silver

Lucy Kinsella
'Running Hare' Limited Edition Sterling Silver Sculpture by Lucy Kinsella, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
'Boxing Hares' Sterling Silver Limited Edition Sculpture by Lucy Kinsella

Lucy Kinsella
'Seated Hare' Limited Edition Sterling Silver Sculpture by Lucy Kinsella, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
'Leaping Hares' Sterling Silver Limited Edition Sculpture by Lucy Kinsella, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
Lucy Kinsella 'Running Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
Lucy Kinsella 'Seated Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
Lucy Kinsella 'Seated Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
Lucy Kinsella 'Leaping Hares' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
Lucy Kinsella 'Bunched Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
Lucy Kinsella 'Bunched Hare' sterling silver sculpture, contemporary

Lucy Kinsella
Lucy Kinsella 'Boxing Hares' Sterling Silver

Lucy Kinsella
Lucy Kinsella 'Boxing Hares' sterling silver sculpture

Lucy Kinsella
Running Hare, contemporary