Posts Tagged ‘sterling silver flatware’

New to Sterling Silver Flatware? What to Look For

Are you a couple just getting married, and doing bridal registries at stores for sterling silver flatware? There's no doubt that a wedding gift of flatware in sterling silver is one that many invited guests will consider making, but one of the considerations always is cost and the kind you would be best advised to choose. The article we found that follows provides some valuable tips for first time recipients of the marvelous and ageless gift of sterling silver flatware.

What to Look For in Your First Sterling Flatware Set?

The most important decision you make, and the one with the permanent consequences, is which pattern you decide to buy. Look closely in eBay antiques/Silver/Sterling/Flatware at the categories for each manufacturer. If there is a collection for sale, search for other listings that use this pattern name to get some idea of how common this pattern is on eBay.

Sometimes you will find sellers listing collections without a pattern name, though that is getting less common over the last several years. Most sellers, even if it is their first time on eBay, realize that they will get a higher price if they do a little research on any of the many pattern identification websites so they can post the actual name of the pattern in the title of the listing.

Most sterling silver flatware will show some signs of use, but silver can be easily polished using a silver cream, and unless an item is seriously abused, flatware pieces will quickly and easily polish up so that you will be proud to have them on your table. Be very careful of black pitting on stainless steel knife blades, as this does not remove easily (or at all), and items with these marks should be avoided if at all possible.

Some sterling silver pieces may require a bit more elbow grease (that means more vigorous and longer polishing) than others, particularly the bowls of serving spoons for example, but generally there is little to worry about with any listing that gives a full description and provides good quality close-up photos. Another thing that can happen is the blades of knives can come loose from the sterling handles, but this is quite rare in my experience and any seller that doesn't acknowledge even the slightest wobble whatsoever in a listing is far over the line into misrepresentation and refund time.

The Sterling Silver Flatware is an online store with hundreds of different Sterling Silver Flatware at discounted price.

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Posted by Roberta on August 3rd, 2008 No Comments

Tips for Cleaning Your Sterling Silver Flatware

Dull or dirty-looking sterling silver flatware can make even the most appetizing meal seem unappealing. While normal washing renders silverware mostly clean, however, stubborn dirt and grease may remain even after a cycle in the dishwasher which is not recommended. Over time water and detergent deposits may accumulate on your forks, knives, and spoons, and your silverware may lose its shine and appear dirty even when it is not. Here's how to bring back your silverware's luster to make it look brand new.

How You Should Clean Your Sterling Silver Flatware

Silver should be cleaned immediately after use, especially after contact with food that may cause corrosion or contain acids such as eggs, tomatoes, mayonnaise or salt. Wash in hot soapy water using a mild soap and rinse in clean hot water. Dry immediately to avoid spotting. Avoid lemon scented detergents and those containing chloride. They can be harmful to the silver.

Do not soak your silver overnight. Prolonged immersion in water may damage the metal. Washing in a dishwasher is not recommended, as the extreme temperatures may loosen hollow-handled pieces. If you do use a dishwasher, remove the pieces before the drying cycle.

How should I store my sterling silver flatware?

Your silver should be stored in an airtight silverware chest, in Tupperware, or in bags made of tarnish resistant cloth as exposure to air will accelerate tarnishing. Storing loose in drawers will cause scratching, and some woods contain acids that will stain the silver. Keep silver away from dampness and direct sunlight. Do not wrap in plastic, newspaper or foil or bind with rubber bands.

What is the best way to polish my sterling silver?

Polish with a soft cloth with any brand name silver polish, following directions. Dips are not recommended; they will remove the oxidation from intricate designs in the patterns. Never use toothpaste.

The universal fineness mark for sterling silver is ".925" which is stamped inside the item for identification as sterling silver. Sterling silver is a beautiful metal that will last for generations with proper care.

What causes sterling silver flatware to tarnish?

Tarnish is usually caused by the contact of the sterling silver to gasses in the air and food particles.

Many people are concerned about their sterling silver tarnishing, but if you use it every day, it will actually tarnish less. Frequent use removes the need for polishing. Over time, your sterling items will develop a warm, rich tone called a "patina". A slightly darker shading (oxidation) in the design will develop and enhance the definition of the pattern.

Caring for your flatware will take some work but it is well worth it since you have paid so much for it and its value will increase overtime should it remain in excellent condition.

The Sterling Silver Flatware is an online store with hundreds of different Sterling Silver Flatware at discounted price.

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Posted by Roberta on July 17th, 2008 No Comments