If you’ve ever wondered, “How can I tell if my silverware is real sterling?” you’re not alone. Many people inherit sets of silver flatware and serving pieces without knowing whether they’re made of solid sterling silver or silver-plated metal. Before you decide to sell your silverware, it’s worth learning what you have and how to identify genuine sterling.

At Premier Gold, Silver & Coin, we meet people every day who bring in family silver sets, flatware, and serving trays. Some are surprised to discover their items are solid sterling, while others find out they’re plated. Knowing the difference helps you feel confident before selling, and it can make a big difference in value.

Check for Hallmarks and Stamps

The easiest way to identify sterling silver is by looking for specific marks. On the back of each fork, spoon, or knife handle, you’ll often see a stamp such as:

• “Sterling”

• “925”

• “.925”

• “800” (less common, but used in some European pieces)

If your silverware says “silver-plated,” “EPNS,” “EP,” “A1,” or “community,” it’s not sterling. Those marks indicate that a thin layer of silver was applied over another metal like nickel or copper.

It’s worth checking every piece in the set, as not all items may be marked. For example, knives often have stainless steel blades attached to sterling handles.

Look for Tarnish Patterns

Sterling silver develops a natural tarnish over time that appears as a dark or dull layer on the surface. This is normal and can actually help identify real silver. Silver-plated pieces also tarnish, but when the plating wears down, you’ll often see a yellow or copper tone underneath.

If you gently polish the piece and notice that the color remains consistent, it’s likely sterling. If the underlying metal changes color or the silver layer starts to fade, it’s probably plated.

The Magnet Test

A quick test you can try at home is the magnet test. Real silver is not magnetic, so if a magnet sticks to your flatware, it’s not sterling silver. Keep in mind that this test alone isn’t definitive, since some non-silver metals also aren’t magnetic, but it’s a good first step before bringing your items in for a professional evaluation.

Weight and Sound

Genuine sterling silver tends to be heavier than silver-plated pieces because it’s made entirely of silver rather than a mix of metals. When you tap two pieces together, sterling has a soft, high-pitched ring compared to the dull clink of base metal.

Collectors and professional buyers often use both the sound and weight to help identify authentic sterling, especially in older sets where marks may have faded.

Why Real Sterling Is Valuable

The value of sterling silver depends on both its purity and weight, but also the craftsmanship and pattern. Certain makers and designs—like Gorham, Reed & Barton, or Tiffany & Co.—are highly collectible and can add premium value beyond the silver content itself.

Even if your flatware is mismatched or damaged, it still holds value for its silver weight. At Premier Gold, Silver & Coin, we buy all types of sterling items, including:

• Flatware sets and serving pieces

• Tea sets and trays

• Candlesticks and bowls

• Scrap or broken sterling

Our team evaluates each piece in person, weighs the silver, and explains exactly how the value is determined before making an offer.

Why In-Person Evaluations Matter

Mail-in silver buyers and online selling platforms can feel risky. Photos rarely capture the details needed to assess purity and condition accurately. When you sell in person at a Premier Gold, Silver & Coin event, you meet directly with a professional who tests your items on the spot.

There’s no pressure to sell, and if you choose to, you receive immediate payment right there at the event. Sellers appreciate this transparent and safe process because it eliminates the uncertainty that often comes with mailing valuable items.

Ready to Sell Your Silverware?

If you’re curious about the value of your silverware, bring it to one of Premier’s upcoming buying events. Our friendly experts will examine your pieces, test them for sterling content, and provide a free evaluation.

You can check our event calendar on PremierGoldSilverandCoin.com to see when we’ll be in your area. Whether you have a full set, a few serving spoons, or a box of mixed silver, our team will help you find out exactly what it’s worth.