What Mark Identifies Silver Plate Vs. Sterling?
Sterling silver is identified by the stamp .925, meaning it is composed of 92.5% pure silver, with the rest made up of alloys that harden the silver, so that it can be shaped in a variety of pieces. Sterling silver plate, is a coating of silver usually electroplated on any base metal (nickle, copper pewter etc.) The plating however, will rub off eventually. People with allergies should not wear plated jewellery because even with the plating, they will react to the metal underneath.
