www.925-1000.com

Hello Traintime!

A video is going to be much more effective than having me explain the tools and methods used in hallmarking. Take a look at this excellent video about hallmarking from the Birmingham Assay Office: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_shZ064EnuE .

Jeffrey Herman
Silversmith/Restorer ...

Good day!

I'm here to demystify the world of silversmithing and the care of silver. I'm the founder of the Society of American Silversmiths and have specialized in restoration, conservation, and preservation for the past 34 years.

Jeffrey Herman

Aguest,

It's definitely Towle Silversmiths. See their marks here: http://sterlingflatwarefashions.com/Sil ... s/SST4.htm

Jeff Herman

Hello Sanbil,

The only mark I recognize is the .925, indicating the piece is sterling.

Jeff Herman

Hello Syburi,

These appear to be pseudo hallmarks as I have never seen those particular symbols, with the exception of the rampant lion signifying sterling. The lion isn't as crisp as it should be. I would recommend having it tested by a reputable silversmith or jeweler. Don't allow either to use a ...

Syburi,

This appears to be a pseudo hallmark, meaning the piece may very well be plated. Take note of the unusual marks, such as the tree, menorah, and crown symbols. They don't match any hallmarks I've seen. Have you had it tested?

Best,

Jeff Herman

If you find tarnish too difficult to remove, contact a reputable silver conseravator to avoid further damaging your piece. Silver is very soft and easily damaged, and once you go down the road of trying more and more abrasive methods, you may devalue the piece. As they say in the medical community ...

Silica Gel (Humidity Control) ©

http://www.hermansilver.com/hydrosorbent.jpg

Humidity doesn't cause tarnishing, it excelerates it.

Since World War II, silica gel has been the drying agent of choice by government and industry. It is safe to use with even the most sensitive materials, including ...

Lacquers & Waxes ©

Lacquers

Lacquering silver and silverplate is generally not recommended for a number of reasons: 1. The individual may not properly prepare the object's surface to accept the lacquer. 2. It's very difficult to obtain a uniform coating, even when applied by a professional. 3 ...

Galabagos,

Use an extremely mild polish first on a cellulose sponge to see if you still like that nice three-dimensional effect. Never use chemical dips!

Jeff Herman

Good advice, AG2012, but I recommend a natural horsehair or Tampico brush as they won't scratch when used with water. Nylon scratches.

Jeff

As for for tarnish protection, try Meguiar's Quik Wax...

http://www.hermansilver.com/meguiars.jpg

This auto wax is sprayed on, then buffed with a cotton cloth. Though non-toxic, Meguiar's should not be used on flatware or other surfaces that will be used to eat or drink from. It can of course be ...

Some great advice. I would, however, caution anyone using just any silver polish. One of the most visited pages on my site is the Silver Polish Abrasion Ratings Guide: (admin edit - see Posting Requirements ) Compare the polish you're using to my test results, you may be very surprised!

Jeff

EMJ,

Are you using the ultrasonic to remove polishing compound?

Love the ad, hate what it does to silver. "Bad!"

I'm not certain what was updated but the main page looks great with the most important identification information noted. Thanks very much, Jeff

I must apologize. I didn't mean to sound elitist. My only concern is that if you intend on machine polishing metal that you know how to protect yourself and use the proper methods. I have been machine polishing metal for 36 years, and it's something that can't be learned overnight. It's especially ...

Hello Friends,

I cannot express more strongly NOT to use a polishing machine. This should ONLY be used by a professional as there are many things that can go wrong: over-polishing; using incorrect compounds; using buffs that are too large; uneven directional lines on larger objects; spreading of ...

The technique I use is: I clean the piece with hand sanitizer. If this doesn't work, I use 0000 steel wool (nothing harsher), then apply Renaissance wax, let sit for 10 minutes, then buff with a cotton ball or paper towel. Do not use oils because they will attract dirt and may change color over time.

I use a Q-tip and Windex with vinegar. The Windex does a great job removing gunk.