Michigan State University Extension
Home Maintenance And Repair - 01500071
06/24/03
Silver Characteristics
Sterling silver is an alloy of 92 1/2% silver and 7
1/2% copper. Its beauty increases with use which causes a
patina or soft sheen to form.
Plated silver is silver that has been electroplated
over another metal.
Silver tarnishes when exposed to air. This occurs more
quickly in damp and foggy weather, but is inevitable in
any climate. Store in treated paper or cloth, or plastic
film.
This article was written by Anne Field, Extension
Specialist, Emeritus, with reference from Maryland
Extension bulletin, Caring for Your Valuables: Brass,
Copper, Pewter, Silver Tin, and the Soap and Detergent
Association.
This information is for educational purposes only. References
to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not
mentioned. This information becomes public property upon
publication and may be printed verbatim with credit to MSU
Extension. Reprinting cannot be used to endorse or advertise
a commercial product or company.
MSU is an affirmative-action, equal-opportunity employer. Michigan State
University Extension programs and materials are open to all without regard to race,
color, national origin, gender, gender identity, religion, age, height, weight, disability,
political beliefs, sexual orientation, marital status, family status or veteran status.
Issued in furtherance of MSU Extension work, acts of May 8 and June 30, 1914, in
cooperation with the U.S. Department of Agriculture. Thomas G. Coon, Director,
MSU Extension, East Lansing,MI 48824. This information is for educational
purposes only. Reference to commercial products or trade names does not imply
endorsement by MSU Extension or bias against those not mentioned.
This file was generated from data base 02 on 02/04/08.
Data base 02 was last revised on 06/24/03.
For more information about this data base or its contents please contact
strausc@msu.edu .