Sorting Silverware: What’s Sterling and What’s Not

A Practical Guide for Identifying and Organizing Silverware

People often inherit, discover, or simply want to recycle old silverware. The challenge is separating true sterling silver pieces from silver-plated items, which have only a thin layer of silver. This guide offers straightforward steps to identify, sort, and record your silverware before requesting quotes or selling it, helping you avoid mistakes and ensuring fair valuation.

Step 1: Learn the Basics of Sterling Silver

Understanding what makes an item sterling is the first step. "Sterling" silver in the United States contains 92.5% pure silver blended with 7.5% copper or other alloy for strength. The key identifier is the 925 stamp or the word Sterling on the piece.

Common Marks and Hallmarks

• Sterling – most reliable word stamp

• 925 or .925 – indicates 92.5% silver purity

• Lion Passant mark (British pieces) – denotes sterling silver

• Coin – sometimes indicates older U.S. silver (90% purity)

Silver-plated items usually bear terms like EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver), Silverplate, Sheffield Plate, or brand-specific plating marks. If a piece reads "Stainless" or has no obvious mark, it is not sterling.

Step 2: Quick At-Home Identification Tests

Magnet Test

Silver and sterling silver are not magnetic. Hold a small magnet close to the flatware. If it sticks strongly, the item contains other metals and is not sterling. Weak attraction can occur if internal springs or alloys are present, so use this as a first indicator, not a final verdict.

Sound and Look

Sterling produces a warm, bell-like ring when lightly tapped. Plated items often sound dull. Genuine sterling also tarnishes with a characteristic dark, grayish patina, while plated items may reveal brass or another base metal where wear occurs.

Step 3: Weigh Your Silverware

Weighing helps estimate melt value. Use a pocket digital scale set to grams. True sterling pieces tend to feel heavier and denser than plated ones. Melt value is based solely on the weight of silver content, not decorative or collectible value.

Step 4: Sort and Organize

Once you’ve identified sterling vs plated, group your items logically. Sorting makes quoting and payment faster and clearer. Steps include:

• Separate sterling from plated

• Keep pieces of one pattern together

• Bundle small items (such as demitasse spoons) in labeled bags

• Write down quantities and weights

Step 5: Document Before Packing

Take clear photos of each group. Record the hallmarks visible in each set. Keeping a simple written record avoids mix-ups and establishes a reference point if you mail your items. Simple record-keeping tools like a notebook or online trackers such as GavelBase can help if you have large collections.

Step 6: Packing and Mailing Safely

When sending silverware by mail for appraisal or sale, pack securely and insure properly.

• Use bubble wrap or soft cloth around utensils so they don’t scratch each other

• Place bundled flatware in a strong, padded box

• Seal all seams with strong packing tape

• Ship with USPS insurance and tracking (Registered Mail offers higher insurance limits)

Many companies provide a free tracked mailing kit with prepaid insurance and step-by-step instructions. Ensure you receive tracking and keep your receipts until payment clears.

Step 7: Understanding Testing and Valuation

Once your items arrive at a refiner or buyer, they will often run tests. These include:

• Acid test – a drop of solution reveals if the surface is sterling

• Electronic test – measures conductivity of silver

• X-ray fluorescence – non-destructive, highly accurate analysis

You should expect clear results and transparent communication of purity, weight, and payout. Melt value represents the scrap silver price, but intact, collectible sets may bring higher resale if kept together. It’s wise to request a breakdown of both melt value and potential premium for pattern sets.

Step 8: Choose a Payment Option

Most refiners or buyers offer several secure payment formats. Here are common choices:

Checklist: Sorting and Selling Sterling Silverware

• Locate hallmarks (Sterling, 925, Lion Passant)

• Confirm with magnet test and inspection

• Weigh in grams with a digital scale

• Sort sets and patterns

• Photograph and record details

• Pack securely, insure, and track your shipment

• Review testing and valuation reports

• Confirm preferred payment method

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: What if my silverware has no stamp?

A: If there is no hallmark, assume it is plated unless professionally tested.

Q: Can I mix sterling and plated when mailing?

A: Do not mix them in one bag; record them separately to avoid incorrect valuation.

Q: Do utensil handles always match the stamp?

A: Some handles are filled with resin or steel for weight and may not be solid sterling. Expect tests to account for this.

Q: Should I clean the silver before mailing?

A: Gentle polishing is fine, but heavy cleaning isn’t necessary. Tarnish does not affect silver value.

Identifying sterling silver flatware takes a little observation, weighing, and organization. By following these careful steps, you can confidently tell sterling from plated items, keep accurate records, and ensure your silverware is valued fairly when sending it for appraisal or sale.