Silver

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[mmcat]

internet, perhaps?

[AlphaSigOU]

Originally posted by MageeKKG
Hi

I have a few questions about silver. My grandmother has a silver tea set (the pattern is Georgian), but she knows nothing about it...

1. How can you tell if silver is real? Should I bring it in somewhere?

2. How do you store silver properly?

3. For carefully taking care of silver (polishing, etc.), where can I learn how to do this? Can someone explain it to me or is it best if I go somewhere (A jewlers or someone who sells silver) to show me how?

I wish my family was more into this!

Thanks in advance,

Magee

Fine silver service is hallmarked with the silver content stamped or engraved on each piece, such as '.925 sterling'

Try this page for tips on storing and taking care of silver: http://www.floramex.com/li-care-of-silver.htm

[AOIIsilver]

Georgian is a beautiful set! Congrats!

1. How can you tell if silver is real? Should I bring it in somewhere?
What do you mean by "real"? As in, is the set plated, sterling, or coin? If that is what you mean, turn one of the major pieces upside-down and check the hallmarks, including the company of production. Post picures if possible or at least an really good description. I may be able to help you.

2. How do you store silver properly?
I store all of my pieces in tarnish-resistant bags or boxes. They help to maintain the sheen and prevent scratching. I keep my peices away from moisture; and I clean AND dry them thoroughly after each use before they are put away. I think that you should STAY AWAY FROM RUBBER BANDS OR TAPE on your pieces. They can leave permanent black marks on just about any kind of silver or plate.

3. For carefully taking care of silver (polishing, etc.), where can I learn how to do this? Can someone explain it to me or is it best if I go somewhere (A jewlers or someone who sells silver) to show me how?
It depends on what you want your silver to look like and the amount of tarnish that is currently on the pieces...and what kind of silver pieces that they are.
Some prefer a "butler's finish" which is a fine polish that leaves residual ultra-fine stratches and some tarnish in the pattern; this is sometimes called a "patina." Others want their pieces to look brand new. Another thing that I have been considering lately is the toxicity of the polish.
I use Wright's Silver cream for general cleaning of silver and silverplate; and I wear gloves. I use cloth baby diapers for my buffing and drying to minimize scratches.
A jeweler might be able to give you specific advice about the care of your precious pieces.

Good luck and much happiness.
Silver