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
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Can anyone help me with an explanation of a mark on a piece of silver jewelry
ReplyDelete"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?
ReplyDeleteThis is in response to the previous comment.
ReplyDeleteI don't believe so. I've seen lots of weighted pieces without the word, "Weighted", on them