Bracelets and necklaces are typically etched around the clasp, while pendants or earrings may be etched on the underside. Rings are often etched on the inside of the band.
The number 800 means an item is 80% silver, 850 means the item is 85% silver, 900 means the item is 90% silver, and 950 means the item is 95% silver. In most cases, the etching will be on the underside of the item, but it could be along the side.
Items that aren’t real silver may not have any mark or they might just have the brand name. If the item doesn’t say “sterling” or have a number printed, it’s probably not real.
You might not be able to use the sniff test if your item came into contact with something smelly. For instance, a silver tray that had perfume spilled on it might just smell like the fragrance.
The ping will sound kind of like a very small bell.
Don’t slide the magnet along the piece, as it could cause scratching. If you know you’re going to be shopping for silver at thrift stores or a flea market, bring a magnet with you to use for testing. Some metals, like stainless steel, can pass the magnet test but still aren’t silver. Use the magnet test to rule out items but not to confirm if they’re for sure silver.
It’s best to use a polishing cloth made for silver because it won’t damage the surface of your silver items. However, you may be able to wipe off the tarnish with any fabric. Spots on the cloth means the tarnish is rubbing off.
For instance, you might put an ice cube on a suspected silver ring and on a plate. Make sure that both the item you’re testing and the other item you use are both at room temperature.
If the item is real silver, the acid should leave a dark brown or red spot on the item, though some acids may leave a white spot.
If you buy a kit, it may come with gloves.
Typically, the acid solution for testing silver consists of nitric acid and muriatic acid. However, some products consist of only nitric acid.
If you suspect the item is silver plated, you may need to etch the surface of the item first. To do this, scrape a metal object, like the end of a screwdriver, against the item to make a small gash in the surface. However, keep in mind that this will damage the item’s silver plate. [12] X Research source
Read and follow your kit’s instructions to determine if your item is real silver. Your kit should give you a color guide to use. For instance, the color of the acid will probably remain the same or turn reddish brown if the item is real silver. On the other hand, the acid may turn a green or light brown color if the item is fake.
