
Non-magnetic doesn't equal SILVER! Here is what you NEED to know!
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I am sure you have seen the videos where we are shown that you can check a metal item to determine if it is SILVER. These have recently become more and more popular, and when you check the internet, those are the ones that come up first. However, this is what they DO NOT tell you! So here are some tips on how silver is really identified, which, yes, is much more involved than just using a MAGNET!
1. The Hallmark Check
The first thing you want to do is look for hallmarks on your silver item. On jewelry, the most common hallmarks identifying silver are:
"925" which is the known mark for STERLING SILVER,
there is also "999" which is the mark for FINE SILVER,
and we also have "958" Britannia Silver.
However, there are many other silver hallmarks. Then we have the famous English, Scottish, and Irish Hallmarks. The four main components are the Standard Mark, which indicates 925 for Sterling Silver, the Assay Office Mark, where the item was tested and hallmarked, the Date Letter, which corresponds to the year the item was hallmarked. Followed by the Marker's Mark. This is indeed much more complicated and literally will need an article on its own. Then there are other countries and their silver hallmarks that vary in many ways.
This article, though, is specifically about Antique Silver that has no silver marks or maybe the silver mark and hallmarks have worn over the years. It is not uncommon for antique pieces to not be hallmarked. However, that does not mean that every antique is automatically Sterling Silver or other.
2. The Magnetic Test
This one is no doubt the most confusing of all. Yes, it is true Silver is NOT Magnetic! So if you place a strong magnet on a silver bar or coin at a 45-degree angle, then it should not stick! However, this does NOT mean that you are indeed holding SILVER.
One of the reasons why this is not a confirmation that you indeed hold silver is that there are other NON-magnetic metals that may appear like silver, especially when they are plated in silver or are indeed metal alloys. So basically any metal that does not contain IRON, COBALT, or NICKEL will NOT have magnetic capabilities! In other words, will NOT react to a MAGNET!
Metals that are NOT MAGNETIC are:
Copper, Brass, Aluminum, Lead, Gold, Silver, Titanium, Tungsten, and Zinc
3. The Silver versus Ice Test
Silver is known to have the highest thermal conductivity of any metal. In other words, when you place a piece of ice on silver, it will melt more quickly than on any other surface at the same room temperature. I personally do not use this method. Apart from being messy, it is not that easy and clear and leaves room for ambiguity.
4. The Acid Test
You can buy a testing acid for silver and use a drop of nitric acid (always wear protective manufacturer-recommended apparel: Gloves and Eye Protection!) This test liquid, when applied to the item in question, will damage your item! This test is therefore NOT recommended for Coins, for example.
5.Chemical Test a Jeweler will Perform
Jewelers frequently use the chemical analysis test. They usually do this by applying a swab of Schwerter's Solution, a mix of nitric acid and potassium dichromate, directly to the item. The item will turn deep red if it is real silver.
6.Precious Metal Testers
Today there are also electronic metal testers on the market that are used by Jewelers. These are available on the open market, but are of course very costly for just an occasional use.
CONCLUSION
My personal recommendation is to take your heirloom treasure to a reputable jeweler who will be able to conduct the necessary testing for you. It is always best to call ahead to see if the jeweler in your area offers this service. Most reputable jewelers that offer repair and jewelry alteration services in house, will have a jeweler on the premises who will be able to test your heirloom.
Thank you for reading this article. I hope you found this helpful.
Claudia
XOXO
The Marialva Collection