Sterling and plate are different.
Sterling silver contains 92.5% silver and is often marked “sterling” or “925.” Silver plate is a surface layer over another material. A silver color by itself does not tell you which you have.
Check marks without damaging the piece.
Look at the back of a spoon, the underside of a serving piece or an existing jewelry hallmark. Take a readable photo and keep the item intact. Do not scratch it, file it or use household chemicals to test it.
The whole set does not have one metal weight.
Keep knives, forks, spoons and serving pieces grouped. Knife blades, handles and filled or weighted bases can have different construction. The total weight of a mixed set is not necessarily its silver weight.
Maker, pattern, condition and whether the set is complete can also inform the evaluation.
Not sure what a mark means?
Bring the piece or start with a description. Tell us if you have a full set, a few serving pieces or jewelry. The SDJB team can help identify what is there and explain which parts affect an offer.