A friend bought a silver ingot. I asked him how could he tell if it was real silver? If the bar has no markings how could one tell? Is there a simple test that I could perform?
By drawyah96
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I don't know of any Do It Yourself Test!
The best solution would be to look in your phone book or on the internet for a business that sell precious metals in your area. That would be someone who sells gold and silver. You would have to have it tested by a professional.
Here is the DIY solution you are looking for. Carry a magnet in your purse. Magnets will not stick to silver. If you remember this, you will be able to determine silver vs. stainless every time.
Keep in mind that most silver is mixed with iron to keep it's shape, esp' in rings. Not so much in ingots. Another way is to look for an "SS" on the back for Sterling Silver, a brand name such as Onieda or a high quality maker (but keep in mind that if it's stainless they will most likely stamp that as well) or a "925" for an inferior grade but still good enough for most collectors.
I hope that helps.
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