There is another way to try to identify the metal content of a piece - by using an acid test - literally! We purchased a test kit with a small vial of acid. The metal will react with the acid and the color to which the liquid changes is a clue regarding metal content. We tried it on a sterling piece and it appeared to work. In the case of "92.5% silver", which is the definition of sterling, the color was a dark red.
So, if you really want to do this, you can find these acid kits on eBay. Be aware that you have to scratch the piece a bit in order to perform the test. The acid also dulls the piece and leaves a mark. You probably can polish that out. You can use this kit to try to identify:
- Pure silver
- 92.5% silver (sterling)
- 80.0% silver
- 50% silver
- Lead
- Tin
- Brass
- Copper
- Nickel
- Zinc
- Palladium
- Gold
Click on any picture to see a larger version. By clicking on "Comments/Questions" below, you can see posted comments and add your own questions and comments. Or, you can send us an email by clicking on "Email Silver Jim" in the right column.
![[Most Recent Quotes from www.kitco.com]](http://www.kitconet.com/charts/metals/silver/t24_ag_en_usoz_2.gif)
3 comments:
Can anyone help me with an explanation of a mark on a piece of silver jewelry
"WEH Silver". It does not appear to be a hallmark but rather a description of the silver such as 925 Sterling. I believe I have read somewhere that this is an alloy description. I would be grateful if someone can enlighten me.
If the base of a candelabra is marked "sterling", but does not state "weighted", can I assume that it is solid sterling silver?
This is in response to the previous comment.
I don't believe so. I've seen lots of weighted pieces without the word, "Weighted", on them
Post a Comment