Question 1

Why is sterling silver called sterling?

Accepted Answer

Opinions differ as to why sterling silver is called sterling. Some scholars believe that the name comes from the term Easterlings, referring to coin makers who relocated from Germany to England in the 12th century. Others say that sterling is a derivation of Starling, the name of the one-penny silver coin in circulation in 1300 when King Edward I issued a decree that all silver articles were to be at least 92.5% pure silver. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of sterling silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects.

Question 2

Is Thai silver sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Most thai silver has more pure silver in it than standard sterling silver. Most sterling silver is 92.5% silver with another alloy, typically copper, making up the rest of the metal. Thai silver often falls in the range of 97.5-99% pure silver, so a significantly higher percentage of it is pure silver, making it softer and less likely to tarnish. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary silver jewelry from top sellers around the world.

Question 3

What is sterling silver made of?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is made of 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% alloy. Depending on the composition, the alloy may be nickel, copper, brass or other metals. On 1stDibs, find a variety of sterling silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects.

Question 4

Why is sterling silver so cheap?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is so cheap because of two main factors. First, it contains just 92.5% pure silver, so the cost of raw materials to produce it is lower than that of other types of silver. Second, the supply of silver is generally greater than that of other precious metals like gold and platinum, leading to lower prices. Explore a collection of sterling silver jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 5

What is bad for sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

The worst substances for sterling silver are chlorine, chlorine bleach, and ammonia, all of which will cause tarnish and accelerate corrosion. You should also avoid household cleaners, rubber, and perspiration. Rinse your sterling silver pieces thoroughly after coming into contact with those substances. On 1stDibs, shop a collection of sterling silver pieces from top sellers worldwide.

Question 6

What is antique sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is an alloyed form of silver, and is made up of 92.5% fine silver and 7.5% copper. An antique sterling silver item will have the same silver content and will be over 100 years old. Shop a collection of expertly vetted antique sterling silver from some of the world’s top sellers on 1stDibs.

Question 7

What is a sterling silver Vesta?

Accepted Answer

A Vesta is a type of small case used to carry matches for smoking, while sterling silver is a precious metal made by combining pure silver with an alloy. Therefore, a sterling silver Vesta is one fabricated out of this kind of metal. Find a collection of Vesta containers on 1stDibs.

Question 8

How do I identify sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

To identify sterling silver, look for hallmarks in an inconspicuous area, such as the underside of flatware handles, the bottoms of serveware and the interior or clasp areas of jewelry. Pieces made of sterling silver often feature "925" or ".925" markings. Alternatively, they may feature "Sterling" or "STER" stamps. For assistance determining what type of metal a particular piece is, consult a knowledgeable expert, such as a certified appraiser. Shop a diverse assortment of sterling silver jewelry, flatware, tableware and decorative objects on 1stDibs.

Question 9

What's the difference between silver and sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

The difference between silver and sterling silver is its composition. Silver is a general term used to describe metal that is rich in or made completely of the element silver. Sterling silver is a specific alloy with 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals like nickel or brass. Fine silver is the term for 99.9% pure silver. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of silver jewelry, watches, tableware and decorative accents.

Question 10

Is sterling silver real silver or fake?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is real silver, not fake. However, it is not solid silver. A piece of sterling silver usually contains 92.5% pure silver, and the remainder of its content comes from base metals. Sterling silver is a popular material for jewelry because it is durable and resists tarnishing. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of sterling silver jewelry.

Question 11

Are sterling-silver spoons solid silver?

Accepted Answer

A sterling silver spoon is mostly fine silver, but not quite solid silver. Sterling silver is an alloyed form of silver, and is 92.5% fine silver and 7.5% copper. You can shop a collection of authentic sterling silver items from some of the world’s top dealers on 1stDibs.

Question 12

Can you shower with 925 sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Although you can shower with 925 sterling silver jewelry on, it is better to remove it prior to bathing. Exposure to water is unlikely to damage the metal, especially if you dry it off promptly after you shower. However, chemicals found in soap, body wash, shampoo, conditioner and other personal care products could react with the precious metal and cause tarnishing. On 1stDibs, shop a large collection of sterling silver jewelry.

Question 13

How can I tell if sterling silver is antique?

Accepted Answer

Sterling silver is considered antique if it was made over 100 years ago. Many antique sterling silver items will have a mark or stamp. First, clean the item and check for marks. A “925” mark indicates a silver purity of 92.5 percent, which is the composition of sterling silver. If you don’t see a mark, work with a certified appraiser to acid test the item and determine the silver content. You’ll find expertly vetted antique sterling silver items on 1stDibs.

Question 14

Is Reed and Barton sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Reed & Barton pieces are made of sterling silver. The American brand was founded in 1824 and is highly regarded as one of the highest quality silver manufacturers in the world. The brand also makes more affordable silver-plated items too.

Question 15

What is the most expensive sterling silver flatware?

Accepted Answer

The most expensive sterling silver flatware is said to be Grand Baroque by Wallace. Sterling silver is a combination of pure silver and copper in a 92.5% and 7.5% ratio. Sterling silver is more valuable because of the silver content. In addition, the age, design, and attractiveness of the silverware may mean its value far exceeds the silver value. Sterling silver flatware with ivory handles is always the most valuable. Find a collection of antique and vintage sterling silver flatware from different creators on 1stDibs today.

Question 16

Is antique sterling silver valuable?

Accepted Answer

Yes, some antique sterling silver is valuable. Sterling silver of any age has value as a material because it is a precious metal. Some pieces may be worth even more than the going rate for sterling due to their maker, style, type and condition. Some silversmiths whose pieces are often in demand among collectors include Tiffany & Co., Georg Jensen, Gorham Manufacturing Company and Towle. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of antique sterling silver wares.

Question 17

How do you tell if sterling silver is real?

Accepted Answer

To tell if sterling silver is real, put a magnet close to it. Genuine sterling silver isn't magnetic, so an attraction may indicate one of two things. First, your piece may be made entirely out of a different metal, or, secondly, it may be silver-plated, meaning it is composed of a thin layer of genuine sterling silver over a base metal. For assistance with the identification process, enlist the help of a certified appraiser or experienced jeweler. Shop a large selection of sterling silver jewelry on 1stDibs.

Question 18

Is Gorham sterling real silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Gorham sterling is real silver. However, sterling silver is not solid silver. Instead, the metal is an alloy formed out of pure silver and another precious metal. You can shop a selection of Gorham decorative objects and serveware on 1stDibs.

Question 19

Does Tiffany’s use sterling silver?

Accepted Answer

Yes, Tiffany & Co. uses sterling silver. According to their website, they were one of the first American companies to institute the .925 sterling silver standard in 1851. Sterling silver is a precious metal that may require cleaning to retain its beauty and character for generations. On 1stDibs, find vintage and contemporary Tiffany & Co. silver from top sellers around the world.

Question 20

Is sterling silver OK for earrings?

Accepted Answer

Yes, sterling silver is okay for earrings. In fact, many people love earrings crafted out of the precious metal. Sterling silver has an appealing cool color and noticeable shine. Plus, the metal is durable, so it can resist scratching when worn frequently. Keep in mind that sterling silver earrings will need regular cleaning and polishing to fight tarnishing. Explore a diverse assortment of sterling silver earrings on 1stDibs.

Sterling Silver Thimbles

Antique Late 19th Century American Art Nouveau Barware

Sterling Silver Thimble Shot Glass Jigger Art Nouveau

Antique Mid-19th Century French Mid-Century Modern Sterling Silver

French Enamel Thread Holder and Thimble

20th Century Unknown Barware

Antique Sterling Silver "Only A Thimble Full" Liquor Measure or Jigger

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Barware

Art Deco Sterling Thimble-Form Spirit Measure Engraved "Only A Thimble Full"

20th Century American Barware

Antique Sterling Silver "Only A Thimble Full" Shot Glass or Liquor Measure

2010s American Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

"Beehive Medusa" Thimble Fob with Zoisite on Steel Chain with Gold Fittings

20th Century American Barware

Antique Sterling Silver "Only A Thimble Full" Shot Glass or Liquor Measure

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Barware

Art Deco Thimble Form Spirit Measure / Jigger marked "STERLING"

Antique 19th Century British Victorian Pendant Necklaces

Antique sterling silver Egg pendant locket, thimble holder

2010s North American Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

"Tufted" Sterling Thimble Fob with 41ct Hessonite Cabochon and Gold Ring Detail

Early 20th Century American Antiquities

System walking stick with thimble holder function, USA 1900.

2010s Modern Fashion Rings

Sterling Silver Stella Thimble Ring

2010s Modern Fashion Rings

Sterling Silver Stella Thimble Ring

Recent Sales

Antique Early 1900s English Arts and Crafts Sterling Silver

Ten Sterling Silver Thimbles, an Amazing Start of a Fantastic Collection

Vintage 1970s English Sterling Silver

Small Silver Inscribed Thimble Cup

Antique 1850s English Victorian Sterling Silver

Rare Victorian Cased Silver "Castle Top" Thimble Balmoral, Unmarked, circa 1850

Antique 1880s British Sterling Silver

Oversize Sterling Silver Thimble Shot Cup, Hallmarked 1884

20th Century Link Bracelets

Set of 3 Simon Bros Sterling Silver Thimbles Size 10-11 #15216

Vintage 1910s American Enamel Frames and Objects

Antique Enamel and Sterling Cat Thimble

20th Century Link Bracelets

Set of 2 Simon Bros Sterling Silver Fluted Panel Thimbles Size 8-9 #15217

Antique 1870s English Sterling Silver

Sterling Silver and Enamel Thimble Spirit Flask, Hallmarked 1876

Antique Late 19th Century English Late Victorian Sterling Silver

Sterling Silver & Vermeil Giant Thimble Shot Glass, Late 19th Century

Vintage 1910s European Edwardian Sterling Silver

Russian Silver Gilt & Multi-Coloured Cloisonne Enamel Thimble, Circa 1910

20th Century Barware

Webster Co Sterling Silver "Only A Thimble Full" Shot Cup/Jigger #15755

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Barware

Art Deco Sterling Thimble-Form Spirit Measure Engraved "Drink Up" by Fisher

20th Century Desk Accessories

Simons Bros Sterling Silver Long Thimble

Early 20th Century American International Style Barware

Simons Bros, Sterling Silver Thimble Two oz. Jigger Measure or Shot Cup Bar Tool

Mid-20th Century American Mid-Century Modern Barware

Vintage Sterling Thimble-form Jigger by Webster Silver, ONLY A THIMBLE FULL

Antique 1880s Victorian Barware

Set of Four Victorian Sterling Silver 'Only a Thimble Full' Jiggers

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Barware

Art Deco Sterling Silver Only A Thimble Full Cocktail Measure or Shot Glass

2010s North American Contemporary Pendant Necklaces

Tahitian Pearl Fob with 18K Gold & Diamond Bezel Topped by Sterling Swan Thimble

Mid-20th Century Mexican Mid-Century Modern Barware

Pair of Sterling Thimble Full Cocktail Measure Jigger by Rancho Alegre

Mid-20th Century Unknown Retro Clip-on Earrings

Vintage Sterling Silver Novelty Thimble Earrings

2010s Modern Fashion Rings

Stella Thimble Silver Ring

2010s Modern Fashion Rings

Stella Thimble Silver Ring

Early 20th Century American Art Nouveau Vanity Items

Antique Stern Bros. & Co. Sterling Silver Cupid Special Thimble

20th Century Vanity Items

Tiffany & Co Sterling Silver Travel Sewing Kit w/Thimble and Bobbins #18465

Early 20th Century American Art Deco Vanity Items

Art Deco Blue Guilloche Enameled Sterling Silver Sewing Thimble by Simmons Bros

Antique 17th Century German Sterling Silver

Silver and Parcel Gilt Thimble, German, circa 1609