800 Silver Plated Italy Flatware is an Anomaly To Stay Away From

GMGs Silverplate
GMGs Silverplate
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Published 2023-10-09
Most companies clearly mark silver plate to keep people from mistaking it from real silver, both for integrity and to stay in compliance with laws, but some unscrupulous manufacturers in Italy made some stuff that is marked the same as real 800 continental silver.
All Comments (3)
  • @mojavegold-
    An unknown piece of "silver" alloy can be quickly measured for specific gravity to determine its approximate makeup. You will need an accurate gram scale; a plastic container that will fit on the scale platform and is large enough to hold the item being measured without touching the sides or bottom of the container; enough distilled water to fill the container around 3/4 full; and a piece of thread or dental floss. First weigh the item in question and write down the weight in grams. Next, tie a thread to the item so it can be dangled all the way into the container without touching the bottom or sides. Place the container onto the scale and fill with enough water to cover the item completely. Tare (zero out) the scale. Finally, dangle the item so it is covered with water but doesn't touch the container, and record the final weight measurement. Divide the first weight measurement by the second. Pure silver should measure 10.5; Sterling silver 10.4; 90% (coin) silver 10.3; 80% (continental) silver 10.16-10.17. Copper measures only around 8.86 - and various brass alloys even lower.