www.925-1000.com

Hello everyone.

I don't believe chemical testing to determine the fineness of silver produces accurate results.

I was wondering how other members feel about this subject.
Please give us your opimion and tell your experiences with chemical testing.

Pat.
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I only use chemical testing on pieces when I have major suspicions about the quality of the metal. For most items the chemical can not simply be applied to the surface (then you would get a reading only on any plating on the item) so the surface needs to be disturbed to get an accurate reading. I have seen many pieces ruined by overzelouse testers filing half-way through a spoon handle to test the it. When you consider the small intrinsic value of silver in a spoon, it seems like a waste.

I have however used it on large pieces that seem either too heavy or light for their size. Also if the finish looks a little wobbly for how the piece is marked. I have experienced sterling candlesticks with iron rods holding the castings together, the parts were silver, but the iron made them heavier than expected. Since the seller had based the asking price on the weight, the testing shower that they were worth much less than was asked.

The difference in metal value between a piece of sterling and a piece of coin is usually so close that metal quality is not that big an issue (as long as it meets the quality of its makrings.

I find it best to suggest people get accustomed to handling as many pieces as possible to get used to how the pieces should feel. I use a touch stone for gold, something that takes a bit of time to learn. When in doubt the acid comes out to be certain or the electronic tester is used.
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