Is It Sterling or Not

I am often asked the most basic question of all, "Is there a way to know if the piece I have (or wish to purchase) is sterling silver or silver plate?".

Yes Virginia, there is a way. Sterling silver is comprised of 92.5% silver and 7.7% some other metal. Often you will see the numbers "925" on the back of the piece. This is an indication it is sterling.

Also, you should see the word "Sterling" or the letter "S" or letter "SS" stamped on the back. Usually a sterling silver piece will have one of these marks on it. Beware of "SP", for that indicates Silverplate and therefore is not sterling. Often "Silverplate" or "Silverplated" may be stamped on the back of such a piece.

If all else fails, try a strong magnet. Sterling Silver will not stick to a magnet. If what you have is attracted to the magnet, chances are it is not the real thing.

I hope these tips help. 

I usually carry a small jeweler's loop with me when I go looking for sterling pieces. The markings on the back are very hard to read without some magnification. It also helps to be familiar with the manufactures' markings which can be very confusing because there are so many. Some companies have several markings they have used over the years. There are reference books that will help you with the markings. However, finding a piece in a pattern that you do not recognize and only having the manufacturers markings to go by can be a proverbial needle in a haystack. It helps to be familiar with the markings of the more popular companies so you at least can identify a piece as possibly among one of them and go from there.