Choosing your Metal

Sterling Silver? Stainless Steel? Silverplate? When purchasing fine flatware, there are several options from which to choose. Here are some points to consider:

Sterling Silver:

• Most precious of all flatware metals
• Composed of a mixture of 92.5 % pure silver and 7.5 % of an alloy (such as copper, for added strength)
• High silver content makes it the heaviest of all flatware and the most expensive
• “Sterling” back stamp ensures authenticity and that each piece meets the U.S. Government standards for solid silver

Silverplate:

• Made from a metal alloy of nickel and copper, coated (electroplated) with a layer of 100% silver
• Offers the luxurious look and feel of sterling, yet is less expensive

Stainless Steel:

• Made from a combination of chromium and nickel, generally in ratios of either 18/8 or 18/10
• Chromium provides strength and resistance to corrosion; nickel provides luster and enables exceptional pattern definition
• Economical and easy to care for: Dishwasher Safe