Category Archives: sterling silver

Oxidize Sterling Silver

Household Silver: How to Oxidize Sterling Silver with 4 Simple Tricks

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Many people love the look of shiny sterling silver. The brightness of the metal is why many purchase these pieces. On the other hand, sometimes people want their silver to look more like an antique, especially if it’s jewelry. To get that look, you can oxidize your silver pieces. If you’re wondering how do you oxidize silver, there are a few ways you can do this at home without damaging the items.

Oxidize Sterling Silver

Check out our latest blog post on how to maintain and protect your oxidized silver jewelry.

Use Boiled Eggs

This might sound odd, but boiling eggs can also oxidize your silver. Put two eggs in some water and get the water boiling. After about ten minutes, take the eggs out and put them in a baggie. Squish them up until they’re in fairly small pieces. This releases sulfur, which will oxidize your antique silver items when you put them in the bag. Just leave the item in the bag for several hours—the longer it stays in contact with the eggs, the more oxidized it will get. When you like the color, remove the silver piece, wash it, and dry it thoroughly. It’s one of the easiest home methods if you’re exploring how to tarnish silver naturally.

Use Liver of Sulfur

Liver of sulfur is a mix of a variety of different things, including potassium thiosulfate, potassium polysulfide, and potassium sulfide. You can purchase it as a gel and add a bit of it to hot water. Then simply drop your silver household items into it until it’s the color you want. Don’t leave the items in too long, though, or the oxidization can start to look spotty. It’s one of the most controlled ways if you’re exploring how to oxidize silver using professional products.

Use Luster Gel

Luster Gel is a fairly new product that’s actually designed to change how your silver pieces look. It can oxidize them, but it can also be used to change the silver to many other colors. Simply select the color you want (the gel comes in a variety of shades) and follow the directions. This is another great answer to how do you oxidize silver at home with more control over the final appearance.

Go to a Spa or Hot Spring

This may not be an option for everyone, but antique silver buyers might accidentally oxidize everything they’re wearing by going to a hot spring or a spa! The high sulfur content of these natural areas will evenly oxidize anything silver in just a few minutes!

 

Sterling Silver

What Exactly is Sterling Silver? How to Identify Sterling Silver Quality?

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What is sterling silver? Sterling silver is a popular metal alloy used in the making of jewelry. It combines silver with other metals, such as copper, making it more wear and tear-resistant. The metal composition must have at least 92.5% silver to be classified as sterling silver. If you’re wondering what is sterling silver exactly, it’s a durable, hypoallergenic, and timeless alloy that’s ideal for jewelry and decorative pieces. There are various methods for identifying authentic sterling silver, including the white cloth test, nitric acid test, magnet test, smell test, and hidden marking test. Sterling silver is hypoallergenic, durable, customizable, timeless, and affordable, making it an excellent choice for creating jewelry and other items. Regular cleaning and proper care are necessary to maintain its beauty and value. So, Sterling Silver is an economical and sturdy metal alloy perfect for making jewelry.

The Composition of Sterling Silver

Like gold, silver is delicate and soft in its purest form. Unfortunately, it doesn’t make it a durable material. To make it more useful, pure silver is usually mixed with metal alloys like copper to improve strength and durability. When pure silver is combined with less than 7.5% alloy, it is referred to as sterling silver. Sterling silver will contain at least 92.5% silver.

Sterling Silver

Identifying Sterling Silver

If you have a piece of silver jewelry or silverware and want to know if it’s made of sterling silver, you can take a few steps to test it.

  • The white cloth test. Use a soft white cloth to rub down your item gently. If there are black marks on the fabric when you pull it away, this is a good sign that the material is sterling silver.
  • The nitric acid test. Adding drops of nitric acid to real sterling silver won’t have any effect, but the same can’t be said about non-silver metals. When added to other options, nitric acid will lose color.
  • The magnet test. It is a fairly straightforward test, as magnets don’t affect silver. Holding a magnet up to the silver piece and finding that the item is attracted to the magnet should be a clear sign that you don’t have a sterling silver object.
  • The smell test. Take a whiff of the silver item. Does it smell something metallic? That means you’ve got something other than sterling silver, as too much copper is present. Sterling silver should not have a smell.
  • The hidden marking test. Genuine sterling silver – especially jewelry – will have an unnoticeable marking on it stating “Sterling Silver,” “925,” or “Ster.” If you don’t see any of these markings, you should be careful about whether or not you have the real thing.

Sterling silver doesn’t come cheap and requires a considerable investment, regardless of whether you are buying a silver antique or pendant. Fortunately, it is a worthwhile investment, as the piece’s value will increase with time.

Cleaning Your Sterling Silver

There are many metals out there that are tarnish-resistant, but unfortunately, sterling silver isn’t one of them. If you have a silver piece you don’t wear or use often, a tarnish can build up on the surface. Regular polishing using a silver cleaning is a simple and effective solution, and it is important to clean off the tarnish before it can build. Otherwise, you may end up damaging sterling silver pieces long-term.

You can save time, money, and hassle by purchasing sterling silver jewelry or antiques from a reputable dealer. This way, you can ensure that you are making a sound investment.

The Benefits of Sterling Silver

Sterling silver is a versatile and attractive metal with many benefits, making it an ideal choice for jewelry and other items. Some of the advantages of sterling silver include:

  • It is hypoallergenic. Unlike other metals that can cause allergic reactions, sterling silver is safe for most people. It does not contain nickel, a common allergen for many people.
  • It is durable. Sterling silver can last for a long time if properly cared for. It is resistant to wear and tear and can be easily repaired if damaged.
  • It is easy to customize. Sterling silver can be molded into various shapes and designs, making it perfect for creating unique and personalized pieces. It can also be engraved, stamped, or embellished with gemstones.
  • It is timeless. Sterling silver has a classic and elegant appeal that never goes out of style. It can complement any outfit and occasion and be mixed and matched with other metals and accessories.
  • It is affordable. Compared to other precious metals such as gold and platinum, sterling silver is much more affordable and accessible. It offers a high-quality and luxurious look without breaking the bank.

If you’re still curious about what is sterling silver, just remember: it’s a beautiful, functional, and budget-friendly alloy that can enhance your collection and reflect your personality. Whether you are looking for a simple ring, a statement necklace, or a stunning bracelet, you can find a sterling silver piece that suits your taste and budget.

Tea set

Silver Patterns that are a Gold Mine for Collectors and Sellers

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Have you inherited antique silverware and wondered if it’s worth anything? Or maybe you’ve spotted beautiful flatware at a thrift store or estate sale and thought of reselling it for a profit. If so, recognizing valuable patterns can be a major advantage. Here are some of the most collectible and profitable antique silver patterns to watch for—and how to tell if your silver is a hidden treasure.

Antique Tea sets

High-Value Antique Silver Tea Sets

Among the top collectible pieces are antique tea sets—especially those with complete components like teapots, creamers, sugar bowls, and trays. Brands like Tiffany & Co., Gorham, Wallace, and Reed & Barton often command premium prices, especially if the set is in excellent condition.

🌟 Most Valuable Silver Patterns to Know

1. Wallace Grand Baroque

This ornate pattern, introduced in 1941, is one of Wallace’s most iconic designs. A four-piece setting (fork, salad fork, knife, teaspoon) can sell for several hundred dollars. A complete set with serving utensils? Even more.

2. Audubon by Tiffany & Co.

Produced in the 1950s, this nature-themed sterling silver pattern is a favorite among Tiffany collectors. There’s also a gold-plated version that’s highly desirable.

3. St. Frances by Reed and Barton

Reed and Barton started making silver in the 1800s, and their older sets—especially before the company’s 2015 bankruptcy—are in high demand.

4. Rose by Stieff (Maryland Rose)

Introduced in 1892 and produced by Kirk-Stieff, this intricate floral pattern is a favorite among collectors of American sterling silver.

5. Cactus by Georg Jensen

This sleek Art Deco design was made in the 1920s–30s and is sought after for its Scandinavian minimalism and craftsmanship.

6. Grand Victoria by Wallace

Though not as well-known as Grand Baroque, Grand Victoria is elegant and still attracts strong resale interest.

What Makes a Silver Set Truly Valuable?

✅ Full Sets > Single Pieces

Collectors often pay a premium for complete sets over individual forks or spoons.

✅ Condition Matters

Polished, undamaged, and rust-free items hold more value. Look for straight handles, clean etching, and no deep scratches.

✅ Maker’s Mark & Purity

Look for hallmarks like “Sterling,” “925,” or stamps from brands like Tiffany, Gorham, or Wallace. These authenticate the silver’s purity and brand.

✅ Rare or Discontinued Patterns

Some silverware patterns are no longer in production, making them highly collectible. Older or limited-run pieces often have higher resale value.

What Makes a Silver Tea Set a Gold Mine?

How do you know if you’ve got a truly collectable set of silverware or if you have something that’s best used at your next family gathering? There are a number of things to take into account. A few pieces of Rose by Stieff may sell fairly well to someone who needs to complete their set, but overall, collectors generally want full sets. A set of Audubon by Tiffany that’s polished, unbent, and undamaged will, naturally, fetch a higher price than a set with rust and obvious heavy use.

Sterling Silver Candlesticks

How do I identify the value of antique silver candlesticks?

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Antique silver candlesticks are outstanding and charming home decor antiquities. We people love their design and style, which always makes us hunt for such precious metal items. To deal with 925 sterling silver candlesticks, there are a few factors that need reflection in order to know the right value, either to sell or purchase.

If you’re a passionate antique lover and searching for the real value of your inherited candle holder, scroll down to learn how to determine the price of old silver candlesticks and other facts about the piece.

Sterling Silver Candlesticks

Different Types Of Antique Sterling Silver Candlesticks

  • Candelabras

It is a several-branched type of candlestick with multiple lights. It is especially used for chandeliers.

  • Chambersticks

Commonly used in the 18th and 19th centuries and decorated with intricate designs and embellishments, with a cone-shaped tool used to hold the wax.

  • Fairy Lamps

Historically dated back to 135 years. It is a small, beautiful, magical glass lamp that is manufactured in multiple alluring colors.

  • Taper candlestick holder

Taper candle holders are typically made of metal, wood, brass, or glass, with 10%–20% silver. They come in a variety of shapes and styles to suit different tastes and decor styles.

How do I recognize the price of old silver candlesticks?

Sterling Silver Candlesticks

An antique silver appraiser can help you find the real value of ancient silver candle holders. There are a few factors that enable an appraiser to evaluate the price. So, if you’re willing to uncover the topic, you can visit an antique silver store where you can get your piece evaluated.

On the other hand, the following are the traits that, when in favor, can exceed the sterling silver candlestick’s value and make you a fortunate being.

1. Material

The first and foremost thing that is looked after is the material used in making candle holders. If the materials are highly precious metals or other objects with hallmarks, then the item’s value gets exorbitant.

Generation

This means the age; it’s the crucial part of determining the price of any antique. The age defines the historical presence of the candle sticks and are many decades old. Then, you’re very lucky to get the sky-high value.

Provenance

The place of manufacturing matters a lot in the evaluation process. It confirms the reality that the product was made and has historical evidence.

Quality

The condition has an important role in appraisal. How? If the item is broken or damaged, eventually its price will decrease. And if the candlesticks are in perfect condition, then you have a good chance.

Manufacturer

Last but not least, craftsmanship, the previous owner, or the brand If the silver candelbras are made by a big brand or their precious owner is a reputed person who is elite, their price gets doubled or tripled. If you possess a Tiffany sterling silver candlestick, you have a great chance to reap the benefits of your luxurious chambersticks.

So, this was the complete silver candle holder price guide that’s going to help you whenever you feel confused or you can be attentive to whether your hired silver buyer is covering these factors in the evaluation process.

Who appraises silver candlesticks near me in Florida or online?

We at Antique Silver Buyers buy and appraise precious metal fairy lamps and other home decor items at the best price. If you have antique silver candlesticks for sale, come to us or contact us online through our website to follow the effortless process to get in touch with us for a free online appraisal.

Wm. Rogers spoons

Wm. Rogers Silverware Value Guide: How Much Is Yours Worth?

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Are you interested in finding out how much that Wm. Rogers silverware set you found in the attic or at a flea market is worth? Wishing you the best! Appreciating your Wm. Rogers silverware set doesn’t necessitate a metallurgy degree or a time machine.

Wm. Rogers spoons

The Appeal of Wm. Rogers Silverware

Wm. Rogers silverware sets have been passed down through the generations and are more than just utensils; they are artifacts of history. At this time, the going rate for Rogers silverware is approximately $31.88. However, please note that this figure is only provisional. The value of your set might be significantly higher or lower based on its specific background.

Factors That Determine Value

  • Patterns and Designs: The Details Matter

The silverware made by William Rogers was exquisite, but that was only the beginning. The company’s various designs were all interesting and useful in their own ways. Some of the most sought-after designs by collectors are these:

– Acme
– Alaska
– Beauty
– Beloved
– Berwick

Tip: If you find silverware with one of these designs, it’s worth celebrating! You may have a valuable piece on your hands.

However, it’s not just about the designs. The marks or stamps on the silverware are also very important. Look for names like “Wm. Rogers Mfg. Co.” or “International Silver” (IS). These marks tell you about the silverware’s origin and age, kind of like a certificate that reveals its history.

  • Condition: Why Condition Matters More Than You Think

As far as the condition is concerned, it is everything. When in pristine condition, a set can command a pretty penny. However, its value may plummet if it is severely damaged or stained. Refrain from discarding it! Telling the truth about your silverware’s condition can significantly affect its value.

Fun Fact: If forks and spoons are too worn out, you can’t polish them to make them look new again. It’s pretty much impossible, just like trying to put the sound of a bell back inside after it’s been rung.

  • Age of the Pieces: Why Older Can Be Better

In the world of antiques, older often means more valuable. Vintage Wm. Rogers silverware is generally worth more because it’s rare and has its own history. It’s like owning a snapshot from the past—without the worries about its cleanliness from back then!

  • Market Value: The Price Variety

The average price for Rogers silverware is about $31.88, but prices can change a lot. Some items might sell for just a couple of dollars, while others could go for over $300. Think of it like the stock market, just with a lot more forks involved!

How to Determine the Value of Your Wm. Rogers Silverware Set

If you’re looking to find out how much your Wm. Rogers silverware set is worth, here are some simple steps to guide you:

  1. Identify the Design: Start by looking online or checking an antique guide to find out the specific design or pattern of your silverware. Knowing the pattern can give you a rough idea of its value.
  2. Look for Marks: Turn your silverware pieces over and check for any stamps or marks on the back. These markings can help you figure out when it was made and if it’s authentic.
  3. Examine the Condition: Take a close look at your set. Are there any scratches, dents, or signs of tarnishing? The condition of your silverware can greatly affect how much it is worth, so be honest about its state.
  4. Check Recent Prices: Take some time to browse online marketplaces or auction websites. Look for similar silverware sets and see what prices they have sold for recently. This can give you a better idea of the current market value.
  5. Seek Professional Help: If you believe your silverware set might be especially valuable, it might be worth having it appraised by an expert. They can give you an accurate assessment of its worth.

By following these steps, you can get a clearer picture of the value of your Wm. Rogers silverware set!

The Silver Lining

Even if your Wm. Rogers silverware set isn’t worth a lot of money, it holds a special kind of value. These pieces have their own stories and experiences; they’ve likely been part of many family gatherings, holiday feasts, and memorable moments.

So whether your set is valued at $30 or $300, take good care of it. Shine it up, use it for special occasions, or display it for everyone to admire. Remember, you’re not just a silverware owner—you’re preserving a piece of history.

Who knows? In 50 years, your great-grandkids might find that old Wm. Rogers silverware set in the attic and share their own stories about it online. The legacy of silver continues!

And next time you’re exploring your grandmother’s attic or checking out a yard sale, keep an eye open for Wm. Rogers silverware. You might just find a hidden treasure!

Silver Marking on silver tea sets

Markings on Silver

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Owning a piece of silver is like owning a piece of history, finding markings on silver can sometimes be quiet difficult. Each unique piece is stamped, or hallmarked, with defining markings from the maker and the era it was verified in. If your silver piece has no markings, you probably do not have a legitimate piece. It is important to learn how to identify markings on silver in order to properly date and valuate each piece.

Identifying Markings on Silver Pieces

To identify markings, you should be able to locate them in key places. You may need to clean up the piece first though. Due to alchemical properties of silver and the base metals, usually copper, needed to strengthen the soft metal, silver is highly susceptible to tarnish. If your silver piece is covered in a soot like or blackened layer, gently take a clean dry cotton cloth to rub away the aged varnish using a specialized cream made for silver. Take care to begin in one area and in a circular motion methodically clean the silver. You do not need water or any harsh chemical. These can damage your historical relic.

As you clean away the tarnish keep an eye out for any markings that appear to be stamped into the metal. These marks are applied using a hammer and punch usually just before the final polishing. This is because when they are stamped, there are rough edges that need to get filed down with the rest of the piece. There are usually more than one marking and will be key to identifying the integrity, origin and value of your silver piece. These defining hallmarks are what an expert will need to accurately date the piece and can be found, but not limited to, these common places:

Stamp on silver tea sets

1. On the underside of a vase, tea set, or any novelty object that rests on a flat surface.
2. On the underside of the handle of flatware where there is enough surface area, generally at the end of the stem.
3. On the back side of pieces that stand upright or hang such as picture frames.

Stamps are applied in the places that do not detract from aesthetic quality and where there is enough room to punch them without puncturing thin silver or damaging any edges. They also may not all be in a neat row, but placed in different places along the piece.

Identifying Fraudulent Markings

Unfortunately, over the years there have been individuals who try to reproduce valuable markings in an effort to sell counterfeit articles. These fraudulent markings can easily be identified by knowledgeable professionals who understand the complicated and authoritative laws that have regulated markings on silver for centuries. The most commonly forged markings on silver are the ones that bring the most value such as Tiffany and Unger Bros.

Tiffany silver stamp

The easiest way to identify a counterfeit markings on silver is with a side by side comparison of original markings either from an authentic piece or picture from a credible reference. For a collector, the learning process never ends. There are over 12,000 documented silver marks and that list continues to grow as research is part of the enjoyment and reward. Over time, a knowledgeable collector or dealer will become familiar with the nuances of identifying markings and have experience distinguishing their validity and the unique story each silver piece has to tell.

If you have found markings on your silver object, let a collector take a look and give you the needed information to determine its value.

Antique Silver

Are you selling precious silver items for scrap prices? Read how & where to sell before you do

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Do you have some silver items that you want to sell? There are a couple of different ways you can sell antique silver bowls and other silver items. The easiest method is to sell them as scrap silver. This involves finding a business that will buy the silver from you for its current value. They then melt down the items and sell off the silver to a company that will use it to make something else. A quick search for “where can I sell silver bowls” is likely to reveal a number of these businesses in your area.

Antique Silver

Is This the Right Method for You?

Selling your antique sterling silver bowls and other silver items as scrap may not actually make you the most money. If your items are truly antiques, they’re likely worth much more as they are. Before you sell them to a scrap business, make certain you’ve researched the piece and know what it’s truly worth. You may be able to get much more for it by selling to silver bowls collectors online.

Antique Collection

Understanding How it Works

When you sell to a silver scrap business, they usually pay you the current silver value per Troy ounce for your item. It’s important to know that it’s by Troy ounce, which is 0.911 of a U.S. ounce. Before you sell, determine the weight of your pieces in Troy ounces. Next, go online and look up the current value of silver per Troy ounce. Multiply that times the weight of the piece to get its value.

Take Premiums into Account

Remember, though, that you’re likely to get less than what you’ve calculated. Buyers charge a fee to purchase scrap silver. This covers their time in evaluating your items, the work it takes to melt them down, and provides them with a profit when they resell the silver. Some places charge as little as two percent, while others may charge upwards of twenty percent.

Sterling Silver set

Sterling vs. Britannia Silver

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Do you have a silver collection at home but aren’t sure of the silver composition? It is possible that your silverware or other antiques are silver plated, but you might also have something more valuable – sterling silver or Britannia silver. While Britannia silver is typically more expensive than sterling silver antiques, both can be indicative of valuable pieces, and it is important to know the difference between the two.

What is 92.5 Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver is a silver alloy that contains 92.5% silver by weight. The other 7.5% of its composition is made of other metals, mostly copper, and antiques often denote their sterling silver composition with a “925” or “sterling” hallmark. Historically, sterling silver has been used for a variety of eating utensils, flatware, and other serving items, and there are many sterling silver pieces that are prized as antiques today.

Sterling silver has long been heralded for its versatile applications and lustrous finish. Sterling silver is harder than gold, but it is considered to be one of the most pliable metals. This malleability makes it easy to use sterling silver to create various forms and shapes, and there are many prized antiques that are made from this metal.

 

Sterling Silver set

What is Britannia Silver?

The Britannia standard of silver was developed in 1697 as a way to prevent British sterling coins from being melted to create silver plate. Unlike sterling silver, which is made of 92.5% silver, Britannia silver is composed of at least 95.84% pure silver. The other 4.16% of its composition is made of copper and other metals. Britannia silver is also more expensive and less robust than sterling silver.

There are several marks that can indicate a piece is Britannia silver. The Britannia figure is widely recognized and was the first of the Britannia silver marks introduced to indicate. 958 silver fineness. Later, a “lions head erased” mark was introduced for the Worshipful Company of Goldsmiths. The number “958” is also stamped on Britannia silver pieces.

Is Your Piece Sterling or Britannia Silver?

The hallmarks on your silver item are the best way to determine if your piece is sterling silver or Britannia. However, if you are unsure of the silver composition – or if you simply want to learn more about the value of your piece – there are resources that can help. An auction house, antique dealer, or appraiser can provide you some helpful guidance on what exactly you have with your silver piece.

Sterling Silver

A Guide to Help You Evaluate Antique Sterling Silver Flatware

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Antique silver flatware is one of the most popular collectible antiques in the world. Due to the popularity of antique silver flatware for sale, it can be difficult for non-informed antique silver flatware buyers to properly evaluate the value of their antique sterling silver flatware. The following is an essential guide that will help antique silver flatware buyers and sellers determine the value of their sterling silver flatware. Explore our sterling silver flatware value guide for expert insights!

Sterling Silver

Step One: Is It Authentic Sterling Silver?

The first thing you need to evaluate is the type of silver used on the item. There are two types of silver that you will find on antique flatware: silver plate and sterling silver. Silver plate was made with a silver coating on top of a different base metal; this method was typically used to provide a silver appearance at a lower cost. Sterling silver is silver branded with the Sterling stamp; the Sterling stamp is a guarantee that the silver is either completely pure or made with .925 silver and .075 added copper.

In the United States, Sterling is easy to identify via the stamps which were present on all Sterling flatware made after 1850: this includes “Sterling,” “.925” and “925/100.” If your silver piece does not have any of these marks, then it is either very old (prior to 1850) or it is fake.

Step Two: Identify the Manufacturer and Pattern

If you already know the manufacturer, you will likely be able to find the pattern used for the silver piece fairly easily by searching for the manufacturer, date and general description of the object. If you don’t yet know the manufacturer, you will need to look for hallmark stamps that can indicate which company produced the antique sterling silver flatware in your passions.

Once you have identified the manufacturer, it’s time to begin looking for the silver flatware pattern. The pattern, like the manufacturer, can have a significant impact on the ultimate value of your item.

Step Three: Assess the Condition

The value of your antique sterling silver flatware can also be influenced by the condition of the flatware in question. If the silver has lots of scratches, dings or various types of discoloration, then the ultimately value is likely to be lower than silver flatware which is in more pristine condition. If the silver is relatively pristine, considering its age, then the value will be higher than scratched and ding-up flatware. And don’t forget about the condition of accessories such as footwear, socks, and other small yet crucial details.

Final Thoughts

You may not be able to tell the exact value of your sterling silver object (or objects) without outside assistance—in other words, an appraisal of some kind that will provide a more definite guideline for what you should be charging for your final thoughts. In cases where you are having trouble identifying hallmarks and other characteristics which can help define and value your antique silver flatware, consult with local dealers about options for identification and assessment. Ensure you get the most accurate value of sterling silver flatware with professional guidance.