Sterling

Flatware refers to a broad category of utensils, including forks, spoons, knives, and other tools used for serving and eating food.

It encompasses serving pieces and tableware, including items like sugar bowls, teapots, pitchers, butter dishes, creamers, and more.

It refers to necklaces, rings, bracelets, and earrings.

Sterling silver is an alloy consisting of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals, making it more valuable than silver-plated items due to its higher silver content.

Originating in continental Europe, sterling silver was used for commerce as early as the 12th century in what is now northern Germany. In Colonial America, it served as both currency and a material for various goods. From 1634 to 1776, around 500 silversmiths in the “New World” crafted items ranging from simple belt buckles to intricate coffee pots.

Typically, your piece will have markings on the bottom that indicate if it is sterling silver. Look for terms such as "sterling silver", "Ster", "925", ".925", or "S925". These markings signify that the item is sterling silver, which we purchase. However, be aware that not everything labeled as "Sterling" is genuine sterling silver, as some manufacturers include "Sterling" in their brand name.

Hallmarks are stamps on sterling silver that provide valuable information about the piece. They may indicate the purity of the silver alloy, identify the silversmith or company that created it, or reveal the date and location of its manufacture.

To differentiate between silver plate and steel, try the magnet test: if a magnet sticks to the item, it's likely made of steel and not worth sending. If the magnet doesn't stick, the item may be silver and is worth considering for sale. However, there's an exception with sterling knives, which often contain a steel piece inside the handle to hold the blade in place. If your sterling knife is magnetic, it's still okay to send it.