What kind of marks do Chinese silversmiths use?
The Chinese character mark will invariably be the mark of the actual artisan silversmith and is frequently accompanied by a statement of silver purity. In the absence of any formal assay system in China, such purity marks exist on the whim of the artisan or retail silversmith.
What do you need to know about identifying silver?
The maker or company name is usually stamped on the back of the piece along with an indication that it’s plated: In America, for instance, these marks are A1, AA, EP, or the full phrases “sterling inlaid”, or “silver soldered.” According to industry standards, AA has one-third as much silver used in plating as does A1 pieces.
Why are there purity marks on Chinese silver?
In the absence of any formal assay system in China, such purity marks exist on the whim of the artisan or retail silversmith. However, it is a whim formulated from their knowledge that raw silver was derived from mainly melted psych ingots or silver trade dollars.
Where did the Chinese get their silver from?
Much of the earlier Chinese Export Silver of the late 18th and early 19th century that was made in Canton carries so-called pseudo-hallmarks and invariably excludes any reference to the artisan silversmith. It is frustrating because some of the finest examples of the skill of Chinese silversmiths are to be found in this early neo-classical silver.
The maker or company name is usually stamped on the back of the piece along with an indication that it’s plated: In America, for instance, these marks are A1, AA, EP, or the full phrases “sterling inlaid”, or “silver soldered.” According to industry standards, AA has one-third as much silver used in plating as does A1 pieces.
Where can I find list of silver marks?
Enjoy your time here, we hope you find the site informative and useful. 925-1000.com is the most extensive internet resource for research of Silver Marks, Hallmarks, Trademarks & Maker’s Marks found on Antique and Vintage silver.
What do the marks on a piece of silver mean?
A single mark usually indicates that the piece of silver was made in America, although there are some Irish and Scottish pieces with just the maker’s name. This is a list of American silver marks and solid American silver. Other lists include silver-plated wares and pewter. It will not help you to identify other silver.
What kind of markings are on Alaska silver?
Tip: Sometimes polishing an item will reveal hidden markings, repairs, wear, and other indications of metal content. Alaska Silver A base metal imitating silver-like Nevada Silver or German Silver. Backstamping Marking a piece of silver with the retailer’s mark-not the maker.
