Is Epns real silver?
EPNS: Electroplated nickel silver, commonly known as “EPNS”, is an alloy of nickel, copper, and zinc that’s covered with a layer of pure silver in an electrochemical process. Nickel’s resemblance to silver helps disguise any worn spots that develop over time.
What does Epns mean on my silver pieces?
electro plated nickel silver
EPNS, electro plated nickel silver, is a process that lays a thin layer of silver alloy over a base of nickel, zinc and copper to give the piece the look of shining silver.
Are old silver plated trays worth anything?
On the other hand, silverplated items are only worth what someone is willing to pay for them. Since there is only a small amount of silver on each item, there is no melting value for silverplate. Pieces that are more decorative, rare, and in good condition might sell for more money.
What do you do with old Epns?
You can donate them to a charity shop. You can sell them at a car boot sale or use a number of online platforms including Gumtree, Friday-Ad, Facebook selling pages and other online platforms. You can also give them away for free through Freegle.
What is the difference between silver plated and Epns?
Silver-Plated or Electroplated items are made out of metal, usually nickel or copper, which are then electrically silver plated by using electricity, a potassium cyanide solution and two electrodes. Many silver plated items bear the marks ‘EPNS’ that stand for Electro Plated Nickel Silver or ‘EP’ for Electro Plate.
Is Epns silver plate?
EPNS stands for “Electro Plated Nickel Silver”. Nickel Silver (or occasionally stainless steel) is the base metal onto which silver is plated. Despite its name, Nickel Silver contains no silver at all, but is an alloy of Nickel, Zinc & Copper.
Does anyone buy silver plated trays?
Find out for yourself why we’ve been the top choice for paying cash for silver plated items for over 30 years. Production of silver-plated tableware comes in many forms from silver-plated knives, forks, and spoons to sliver plated serving pieces, napkin rings, candlesticks & platters. We buy it all!
How can you tell the difference between silver and silver plated?
If you do not see the sterling marking, the item is probably silver plated. Check the colouring of the item carefully; genuine silver is generally less shiny and colder in tone than silverplate. If you see places where the silver appears to be flaking off or turning green, the item is silver plated.
How do I know if my old silverware is valuable?
Inspect the pieces looking for markings such as “925,” “. 925” or “sterling” for pieces made in the U.S. These pieces are usually darker in color and are naturally lighter in weight. Sterling silver pieces have intrinsic value, and can often be resold.
How do I clean Epns silver?
Wash gently in warm water and a solution of washing up liquid being careful not to have the water too hot as silver is a delicate metal. Wash a few pieces of cutlery at a time. Avoid loading all cutlery in the sink at once.
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.