How Do You Choose Sterling Silver Flatware?
Stainless steel makes a lot of sense for everyday flatware because it requires very little care. Sterling silver, on the other hand, requires a great deal more attention, such as polishing it to prevent tarnish. But sterling—which is 92.5 percent pure silver—provides an entirely different feeling of elegance for tea parties, luncheons or fancier dinners. Make sure you are buying sterling silver by looking for a specific mark on the utensils. All sterling now made in this country has a mark that says “sterling” or an indication of its silver content—for example, “925/1000.” If the set is antique or made in a different country, have a professional do an acid test to determine whether the set is sterling. Don’t try using acid yourself, because you can damage the flatware or cause injury to yourself. Choose a pattern that fits your taste and lifestyle. If ornate is your style, go with an intricately carved pattern. If you prefer a contemporary look, consider a simple, geometric desig
