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Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions

How can you tell silver from silver plating?

1 Answer
How can you tell silver from silver plating?
To tell silver from silver plating, try holding a strong magnet near the item. If the magnet is attracted to the piece, it is most likely silver-plated, as solid silver is unlikely to be magnetic. You can also check the hallmarks. Markings that say silver plate, EP, EPNS, EPBM or BP indicate plating. Alternatively, you can have a certified appraiser or knowledgeable antiques dealer evaluate the piece. Explore a large selection of silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects on 1stDibs.
1stDibs ExpertFebruary 27, 2024
Shop for Silver Furniture on 1stDibs
Art Deco Ice Bucket in Silver-Plated Metal and Wood, France, 1940s
Located in Auribeau sur Siagne, FR
An elegant Art Deco era ice bucket crafted from silver-plated metal, featuring two spherical turned-wood handles. Its sleek design—characterized by geometric lines and a gently taper...
Category

Vintage 1940s French Art Deco Barware

Materials

Metal, Silver Plate

1980s Christian Dior Style Silver Plated Shell Jewelry Box
Located in BARCELONA, ES
Beautiful jewelry box designed in Italy in the 1980s. Silver plated box depicting a shell symbol of love and beauty since antiquity. Superb design object that will decorate your inte...
Category

Vintage 1970s Italian Mid-Century Modern Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Metal, Silver Plate

Beautiful Silver Sacred Heart Ex Voto with Cherub Angel, Antique European Italy
Located in Nuernberg, DE
Beautiful Handmade Religious Ex-Voto A striking and delicately crafted religious Ex-Voto, sourced from an estate sale in Parma, Italy. The piece appears to be made from thin, lightw...
Category

Early 20th Century Italian Art Nouveau Religious Items

Materials

Silver Plate, Sheet Metal

Silver-Plated Faux Bamboo Box, France, 1960s
Located in BARCELONA, ES
Elegant 1960s silver-plated box in the iconic faux bamboo style. The rectangular form is intricately crafted with layered, realistic bamboo stalks in high-relief, finished in warm si...
Category

Vintage 1960s French Mid-Century Modern Jewelry Boxes

Materials

Silver Plate

Vintage Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver 2002 Magnifying Glass
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver magnifying glass. By Tiffany & Co. In sterling silver. With engraved leaf designs to the handle. Marked to the side of the handle. Together with its a ...
Category

Early 2000s Modern Sterling Silver

Materials

Sterling Silver

Vintage Elegant Silver-plated Champagne/ Wine Cooler on Stand 20thCentury
Located in London, GB
This is a fabulous vintage silver-plated champagne/wine cooler on a stand, late 20th Century in date. It features an oval-shaped cooler raised on a circular column on a circular ped...
Category

Late 20th Century Wine Coolers

Materials

Silver Plate

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