Is Antique Epns worth anything?
Silverplate can have one micron or twenty or so, and more is better because it won’t rub off as easily, but even if the piece is several microns thick, it isn’t worth the effort of extracting the silver. If you have a piece marked EPNS that is not antique, it has no monetary value, but save it if you can use it.
Can you engrave Epns?
Do you offer engraving? Yes, many of our exclusive items can be personalized with engraving, including Jewellery, Frames and other Giftware, as well as E.P.N.S. Cutlery. Pieces that can be engraved are indicated by a large (E) icon.
How do I clean Epns?
Commercial cleaners are also available to clean EPNS.
- Plug the sink and fill it with warm water.
- Add mild dish soap and wash the EPNS cutlery or utensils thoroughly.
- Run the EPNS through warm water to wash off the soap residue.
- Take the utensils or cutlery and dry them with paper towels or soft cloth kitchen towels.
How can you tell if a silver plate is EPNs?
EPNS items will usually be stamped “E.P.N.S.,” “E..P” for electroplate or “A1” for highest quality. The presence of any of these marks is a sure sign that the piece is made from EPNS. Inspect the piece for a grimy, dulled area and rub a tissue over it. Silver oxidizes in the atmosphere, causing a loose black residue.
How is an EPN different from a Sheffield plate?
Still employed in modern times, it was introduced in the 1840s, replacing a mechanical plating process known as “Sheffield plate,” which in turn was developed as a cheaper alternative to solid silver items. EPNS can usually be distinguished from solid silver and Sheffield plate through markings and patterns of wear.
What causes a streak of black residue on EPNs?
Silver oxidizes in the atmosphere, causing a loose black residue. On unpolished solid silver and Sheffield plate, this effect is very evident and the tissue will come away with a streak of grime. The effect is much less marked on EPNS; dirt tends to be pitted and ingrained.
What does EPNs stand for in Metal category?
By Graham Rix ; Updated April 12, 2017. The term “EPNS” stands for electroplated nickel silver. This is a process by which a very thin layer of silver is applied to a nickel base electrochemically.
How can you tell if something is EPNs?
Look first for any markings on the item. EPNS items will usually be stamped “E.P.N.S.,” “E..P” for electroplate or “A1” for highest quality. The presence of any of these marks is a sure sign that the piece is made from EPNS.
How can you tell an EPN from a Sheffield plate?
EPNS can usually be distinguished from solid silver and Sheffield plate through markings and patterns of wear. Look first for any markings on the item. EPNS items will usually be stamped “E.P.N.S.,” “E..P” for electroplate or “A1” for highest quality.
Silver oxidizes in the atmosphere, causing a loose black residue. On unpolished solid silver and Sheffield plate, this effect is very evident and the tissue will come away with a streak of grime. The effect is much less marked on EPNS; dirt tends to be pitted and ingrained.
What is the color of a solid silver EPN?
Because it is so soft, on solid silver wear will take the form of a flattening out of details, but there are no variations of color. On EPNS, the surface layer of silver is eventually scoured away, revealing the pale yellow color of the nickel underneath.
