Why You Should Collect Real Silverware & Tips To Test It

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You may have silverware, but is it made from real silver? The following guide will show you why it may be a good idea to start collecting real silverware and a few tricks to test silver when you are out and about.

Advantages Of Collecting Silverware

The following are just some things to consider:

Valuable

The first reason you want to start collecting silverware is because it can be worth some cash if you fall on hard times. You can take the piece to your silver specialist, and he or she can tell you if the piece is worth more as an antique or by weight.

Health

Did you know that eating off real silverware can actually be healthy for you and your family? Yes, silver is antibacterial and kills harmful pathogens. There was a time that silver was used by doctors to prevent infections on wounds. So you definitely might be able to prevent all kinds of ailments, like a cold or a stomach flu. 

​How To Test Silver

You should be aware of a few ways to spot real silverware, especially if you purchase your pieces in places like garage sales or antique shops.

Consider the following:

  1. One thing you should know about real silver is that the core is not ferromagnetic, like other metals. So, you should try to purchase your own silver magnetic tester. Just make sure that the magnet is strong enough like a rare-earth magnet. You can purchase these types of magnets in your local hardware store. A silver specialist will have other helpful tips.
  2. What can you do if you do not have a magnet? Well, you can test the piece with a little ice. You just have to make sure that the ice is solid, and place it on the silverware. The ice should melt as soon as it touches your silver piece.
  3. Use a smaller, real piece of silver to lightly bang the piece in question. The reason you want to do this is because silver tapped with silver will make a high-pitched ringing sound. This sound will be very clear and should linger for awhile.

There are other ways you can test if your silverware is real that a silver specialist can enlighten you about. But, as you can see, there are a few reasons to start your collection. And now you know how to check if it's silver. Talk to gold and silver buyers for more information.

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