Testing silver authenticity protects you from fakes and ensures you get what you pay for. These proven methods work for coins, jewelry, and collectibles.
Real silver is not magnetic. Hold a strong neodymium magnet near the item - if it's attracted, it's not pure silver. This quick test eliminates most fakes immediately.
Look for marks like 925, STERLING, or country-specific hallmarks. Use a magnifying glass to examine these carefully - authentic marks are precisely stamped.
Silver has excellent thermal conductivity. Place an ice cube on the item - it should melt faster than on other metals due to silver's heat transfer properties.
Genuine silver produces a high-pitched ring when struck. Tap gently with another metal object - real silver 'sings' while fake metals produce dull sounds.
Apply a tiny drop of bleach to an inconspicuous area. Real silver tarnishes quickly, turning black or dark gray. Use sparingly and clean immediately after testing.
Professional acid testing provides definitive results. File a small notch and apply testing acid - color changes indicate silver purity levels.
For valuable items, use electronic testing or professional appraisal services that provide certificates of authenticity and detailed composition analysis.