How to Identify the Difference Between Silver and Silver-plated Artifacts
When it comes to purchasing silver artifacts, it’s important to know the difference between genuine silver and silver-plated items. With so many options available in the market, it can be challenging to distinguish between the two. Understanding the characteristics and testing methods can help you make an informed decision and ensure that you are investing in authentic silver artifacts.
Namdhari Dynasty of Silver and Gold, located at Banjara Hills Road No 10, Hyderabad, is known for its exclusive range of 925 Sterling Silver Jewelry, Silver articles and artifacts, Religious Silver Idols, Silver Pooja Items, and Silver utensils. As a reputable brand, they prioritize customer satisfaction and aim to provide high-quality and genuine silver products. In this blog post, we will explore the key differences between silver and silver-plated artifacts and provide you with the necessary knowledge to make a wise purchase.
Understanding Silver
Silver is a precious metal that has been used for centuries to create beautiful and valuable artifacts. It is known for its lustrous appearance and durability. Pure silver, also known as fine silver, is too soft to be used in its pure form for making jewelry or other items. Therefore, it is combined with other metals, such as copper, to create a more durable alloy.
Sterling silver, also known as 925 silver, is a popular choice for jewelry and silverware. It contains 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper or other metals. This combination gives the silver strength and durability while maintaining its beauty and shine.
Identifying Silver-plated Artifacts
Silver-plated artifacts, on the other hand, are made from a base metal, such as copper or brass, and are coated with a thin layer of silver. The purpose of silver plating is to give the item the appearance of genuine silver while keeping the cost lower.
Here are some tips to help you identify whether an artifact is silver-plated or made of genuine silver:
1. Look for Hallmarks: One of the most reliable ways to determine if an item is made of genuine silver is to look for hallmarks. Hallmarks are small stamps or engravings on the artifact that indicate the silver content. In the case of sterling silver, you may find the number “925” or the word “Sterling” engraved on the item. Silver-plated items may be marked with terms like “EPNS” (Electro Plated Nickel Silver), “EP” (Electroplated), or “SP” (Silver Plated).
2. Examine the Color: Genuine silver has a distinct bright white color, while silver-plated items may have a slightly yellowish or dull appearance. However, this method may not always be accurate, as the color can vary depending on the quality of the plating.
3. Check for Wear: Over time, silver-plated items tend to wear off, revealing the base metal underneath. Look for areas where the silver has worn off or is peeling. Genuine silver, on the other hand, may tarnish but will not peel or wear off.
4. Weight: Silver is denser than most base metals, so genuine silver items will feel heavier than their silver-plated counterparts. However, this method alone is not sufficient, as weight alone does not guarantee authenticity.
5. Magnet Test: Silver is non-magnetic, so if a magnet is attracted to the item, it is likely silver-plated. However, keep in mind that some silver items may have small magnetic components, such as clasps or hinges, which should not be mistaken for the entire item being silver-plated.
6. Acid Test: This test should only be conducted by professionals or experts. It involves applying a small amount of acid to the item to determine its silver content. If the item turns green, it is likely silver-plated or made of a base metal.
Purchasing Authentic Silver Artifacts
When shopping for silver artifacts, it is essential to buy from reputable and trustworthy sources. Namdhari Dynasty of Silver and Gold, located at Banjara Hills Road No 10, Hyderabad, is known for its exclusive range of genuine silver products. They ensure that all their products are made from 925 Sterling Silver and provide the necessary hallmarks and details to authenticate their items.
In conclusion, knowing how to identify the difference between silver and silver-plated artifacts is crucial when making a purchase. By examining hallmarks, color, wear, weight, and conducting tests if necessary, you can ensure that you are investing in authentic silver items. When in doubt, it is best to consult with experts or purchase from reputable brands like Namdhari Dynasty of Silver and Gold to guarantee the authenticity and quality of your silver artifacts.
You should check out:
https://namdharidynasty.com/product-category/silver-accessories/
