Sterling silver or silver plate?

The difference can be the difference between a few pounds and a few hundred.

Look for hallmarks

British sterling silver carries the lion passant, an assay office mark and a date letter. Marks like EPNS, EP, A1 or «plate» mean silver plate. See how to read silver hallmarks.

Look at the wear

On plated pieces the silver layer wears through on high points, showing a yellowish or grey base metal (copper, brass or nickel silver). Solid silver looks the same all the way through.

The magnet

Silver is not magnetic. If a magnet sticks strongly, it is not silver — but a non-magnetic piece is not necessarily silver either (brass and nickel silver are not magnetic).

What each is worth

Sterling is worth at least its metal value, and good makers and antique pieces much more. Most plated items sell for little, with exceptions for decorative pieces by known makers such as Elkington.

Not sure? Photograph the marks close up and the whole piece — the AI will read them for you.