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 Combs

Vintage 1950s American Sterling Silver

Sterling Baby Brush and Comb Set

Vintage 1920s English Art Deco Sterling Silver

Yellow Enamel and Silver Childs Hairbrush with Comb, Dated 1927, Birmingham

Vintage 1950s Mexican Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver

Mid-Century Hair Comb by Hector Aguilar

Vintage 1960s American Modernist More Jewelry

Jack Nutting California Modernist Sterling Silver and Pearls Hair Adornment Comb

20th Century Late Victorian More Desk Accessories

Silver-Plate Vanity Set With Comb, Brush and Mirror

Antique 1860s French Napoleon III More Jewelry

Lovely Victorian Paste Star Motif Hair Comb

Antique Early 1900s British Vanity Items

English Baby Repousse Sterling Boxed Set

Early 20th Century Victorian More Jewelry

Late Victorian Sterling Silver Comb with Amber Celluloid Prongs

Vintage 1940s Italian Sterling Silver

20th Century Silver Beauty Set with Air Brush, Comb and Mirror, 1940s

21st Century and Contemporary Mexican Brooches

Sterling Silver Bordados Hair Comb

Vintage 1960s Mexican More Jewelry

1960s PAIR Mexican Celluloid and Sterling Silver Hair Combs

For a Lifetime: Victorian Diamond Hair Comb

Vintage 1980s American Sterling Silver

Baby Brush and Comb

Vintage 1930s European Art Deco Sterling Silver

1930s Sterling Silver Retractable Comb with Cabochon Saphire by Collins & Cook

Vintage 1920s American Art Deco Sterling Silver

Vintage Sterling Art Deco Vanity Set Brush, Comb and Mirror, Original Box

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

Charming Royal Air Force Sterling Silver and Blue Guilloche Enamel Compact Case

20th Century Vanity Items

Sterling Silver Crown Hair Comb

20th Century Collectible Jewelry

Engravable Sterling Silver Baby Brush & Comb

20th Century Vanity Items

Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Baby Comb

Vintage 1970s Mexican More Jewelry

1970s Tane Mexico Sterling Silver Hair Combs

20th Century Italian Vanity Items

Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Baby Comb with Pink Tassel

Vintage 1950s American Modernist More Jewelry

Sam Kramer Sterling Silver Chrysoprase American Modernist Hair Comb

Antique Late 19th Century Unknown Victorian More Jewelry

Victorian Diamond Hair Comb

Antique Early 1900s American Art Nouveau Sterling Silver

Art Nouveau Set of Sterling Silver Brushes, Comb and Mirror

Antique Late 19th Century Italian Sterling Silver

Antique Italian 800 Silver Gold Vermeil Hand Painted Enamel Comb

1920s Decorative Objects

1920s Art Deco Silver and Guilloché Folding Comb with Suede Case

Vintage 1920s Vanity Items

1920s Art Deco Silver and Lilac Guilloché Comb and Mirror with Leather Case

Early 19th Century British Bonnets

Antique Sterling Silver Clover Hair Comb

20th Century Vanity Items

Victorian Silver Filigree Hair Comb

20th Century Vanity Items

Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver 3pc Vanity Dresser Set Mirror, Brush, Comb

Antique Late 19th Century Unknown Victorian Vanity Items

Vintage Sterling Silver Hair Comb, Late 1800s, Beautifully Hand Engraved, 37.6

Antique 1880s American Late Victorian More Jewelry

Sterling Hair Comb, Made in the USA. c.1880

Antique Early 1900s Unknown Victorian More Jewelry

late Victorian Large Diamond Silver Gold Hair Comb

Early 20th Century French More Jewelry

Edwardian Paste Hair Comb

Mid-20th Century Danish Art Nouveau Sterling Silver

Georg Jensen Sterling Silver Comb Frame/Mounting No. 172

Mid-20th Century Danish Art Nouveau Sterling Silver

Georg Jensen Sterling Silver Harald Nielsen Mirror, Brush and Comb #172

Antique Early 1800s English George III Sterling Silver

George III Silver Comb with Oriental Crown

Vintage 1950s American Modern Sculptures

Sterling Silver Hair Comb Sculpture by Art Smith

21st Century and Contemporary Other

Tiffany & Co Vintage Genuine Sterling Silver Evening Hair Comb Barrette

Antique 1890s French Belle Époque More Jewelry

Belle Epoch French Paste Hair Comb