Heavy sterling silver items composed of 90% silver can be worth a small fortune depending on the metal market. Since there is only a small amount of silver on each item, there is no melting value for silverplate. Pieces that are more decorative, rare, and in good condition might sell for more money.

How do I get rid of silver plate?

Tie a copper wire around the object youd like to remove the silver plating from. Suspend the object by the wire in the acid solution. Remove the item to be desilvered after a few seconds. Rinse thoroughly in water of any temperature, then roll it in sawdust to dry.

Does silver plated last long?

Yes, silver plated jewelry does tarnish over time. However, silver plated jewelry is more durable than sterling silver due to the base metal, but the latter is easier to clean. The thinner the plating, the less time it will last. Make sure to choose the appropriate thickness level while electroplating your jewelry.

How do you tell the difference between silver and silverplate?

If you do not see the sterling marking, the item is probably silver plated. Check the colouring of the item carefully; genuine silver is generally less shiny and colder in tone than silverplate. If you see places where the silver appears to be flaking off or turning green, the item is silver plated.

Can you get silver off silver plate?

To extract silver from a silver-plated item, mix a solution of ¾ sulfuric acid and ¼ nitric acid inside a metal pot, heating it up to 176 degrees Fahrenheit. Attach a copper wire to the object you wish to extract silver from and dip it into the solution for a few seconds.