en:materials:sterling_silver
Table of Contents
Sterling Silver
Sterling Silver is a high-end luxury alloy used in premium flatware and holloware. By international standard, it contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper) to increase hardness and durability, as pure silver is too soft for functional use.
Often marked with the number “925” or a Lion Passant hallmark, sterling silver is prized for its warm luster, antimicrobial properties, and its status as a timeless family heirloom.
1. Key Characteristics
- Luster: Unlike the cool, blue tint of Stainless Steel, sterling silver has a deep, warm, and soft glow that improves with age (patina).
- Weight: It feels significantly heavier and more substantial in the hand compared to steel or silver-plated items.
- Value: As a precious metal, sterling silver retains intrinsic value and can be polished back to its original brilliance indefinitely.
- Antibacterial: Silver has natural oligodynamic properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria, a feature valued in dining for centuries.
2. Hallmarks: How to Identify Real Sterling
Because silver is a precious commodity, reputable manufacturers use “Hallmarks” (official stamps):
- 925: The most common modern mark indicating 92.5% purity.
- Lion Passant: The historical British hallmark for sterling silver.
- Maker's Mark: A unique stamp identifying the silversmith or brand (e.g., Christofle or Tiffany & Co.).
3. Sterling Silver vs. Silver-Plated
| Feature | Sterling Silver (925) | Silver-Plated (EPNS) |
|---|---|---|
| Composition | Solid alloy throughout | Silver layer over base metal (brass/copper) |
| Durability | Lasts centuries; can be replated | Silver layer wears off over time (bleeding) |
| Investment | High intrinsic metal value | Low resale value |
| Markings | Marked “925” or “Sterling” | Marked “EPNS” or “Silver Plate” |
4. Care and Maintenance
- Daily Use: The best way to prevent tarnish is to use your silver regularly. Constant handling and washing keep it bright.
- Hand Washing: Highly recommended. Dishwashers can cause “pitting” and the high heat can loosen knife handles.
- Tarnish Removal: Use specialized silver creams or polishing cloths. Never use abrasive toothpastes.
- Storage: Store in “Silver Cloth” bags or chests lined with anti-tarnish fabric to prevent oxidation from sulfur in the air.
5. Notable Manufacturers
- Christofle (France) - The pinnacle of French silversmithing.
- Georg Jensen (Denmark) - Famous for organic, modernist silver designs.
- Tiffany & Co. (USA) - Defined the American standard for sterling silver in the 19th century.
- Puiforcat (France) - Renowned for elite, artistic silver craftsmanship.
en/materials/sterling_silver.txt · Last modified: by winson