Flatware is a generic term applied to forks, spoons, knives and other utensils used to serve and eat food. Silver-plated flatware became popular in the mid-19th century when electroplating came on the scene.
The term Silver-Plated Holloware refers to serving pieces and tableware such as sugar bowls, teapots, pitchers, butter dishes, creamers, etc.
Silver plate is the process of bonding a very thin layer of silver by electroplating it to a base metal. The most commonly used base metals are brass, nickel, tin or copper.
Normally there are markings on the bottom of your piece that will tell you if it is silver-plated. Look for words like Silver-plated, EPNS (electroplated nickel silver), EP (electroplated). These all fall under that category of silver-plated and are pieces that we buy.
Another good way to tell if an item is silver-plated and not just steel is by sticking a magnet to it. If the magnet sticks, then it is not usually a good idea to send these kinds of materials. If it does not stick to a magnet, then you can send it.
There is an exception to this rule. Silver-plated knives will have a steel piece inside holding the handle and blade together. If your silver-plated knife is magnetic, it is still okay to send.
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