Silver is a metal prized for its luster. Of late, companies looking for a type of metal conducive to broad manufacturing applications have used silver due to its ductility and electrical conductivity.
Silver is also among the most thermally conductive metals, making it an excellent choice for chips, wire, and PCB components. However, like all metals, silver is consistently in short supply. This is why companies have begun to use silver electroplating to give other metallic components the conductivity of silver.
So, how can you tell if the silver you hold is real or the product of silver plating?
The Presence of a Silver or Sterling Notation
Silver is a precious metal, like gold. And, like gold, it is a relatively soft metal. For this reason, we would need to do one of two things to ensure that a silver object does not fall apart. Either we make the object using more silver or subject a hard metallic object to silver plating.
The former would require branding the object with a mark that indicates how much silver is present. This notation is the sterling notation. Hence, an object that has the sterling notation will likely be real silver.
Signs of Oxidation or Turning Black
Authentic silver is a highly oxidative metal. It can oxidize after being exposed to air or even moisture. When it does, a black residue is left on the object. Waiting for the black residue to appear after exposure can take time. However, there is a faster way to test the authenticity of silver.
Silver also oxidizes with friction. So, by rubbing a cloth on a silver item, you can cause black residue to form. The black residue will indicate the authenticity of silver.
Key Takeaway: Silver Electroplating Gives Other Metals the Luster of Silver without its Fragility
Silver easily tarnishes and discolors as a result of its high oxidative properties.
Do you need your metals to have the luster and conductivity of silver without its fragility? If so, silver electroplating may be a sound choice for you.
