As a collector, one of the first and important decisions is whether to focus your efforts to collecting silver plate or sterling silver antiques.

Historically, collecting and using sterling silverware and flatware was a symbol of wealth and social status in England, America and Europe. However, with the advent of electroplating technology during 1800s, by inventors such as: Luigi Brugnatelli (1805); John Wright (1845); The Elkingtons (1840), the use and collection of silverware became more accessible to the broader community. As a result of electroplating technology, silver plate silverware and flatware is a more common find for the antique collector in contemporary times.

When browsing or researching antique silver plate or sterling tableware, look for a 'hallmark' that will provide information about the manufacture or designer and the origin location. This is important as a way of authentication as a genuine silver plate or sterling silver item.

Patterning is another feature to consider when purchasing and collecting silverware. The range and variety of patterns and styles is vast. When collecting, it is not necessary to have a complete set of silverware that all display the same pattern design. The key is to find items that display patterns that can match other patterns or complement each other. This means you can mix n match various patterns and styles to make a complete set of silver plate or sterling silver tableware. If you are fortunate or patient enough to find and collect a complete set all displaying the same pattern, then fine. But if not, then adopt the mix n match idea.

The peak time for silverware manufacturing and consumer usage was during the Victorian period (1870-1920). It was not uncommon during that era for manufactures to produce 100 different items of the same pattern. This trend was in response to consumer demands of the day. Middle and upper class families often entertained with dinners consisting of eight course meals or more.

Historically, 1870 to about 1920 was the peak period for traditional silverware usage. Many makers of silverware would make up to 100 different pieces of a particular pattern. For example, dinners would typically begin with soup, followed buy salads, then fruit. After a pause, more substantial dishes would follow including fish and various meats. Deserts, cheeses and fruits would finish the dinning affair. So within this kind of dining context, it can be expected that a variety of specialized silverware and flatware was necessary. As a result of this social / cultural activity of the Victorian period, there is vast scope for the contemporary silver plate and sterling silver antique collector and investor.

Antique silver plate and sterling silverware have a couple of unique properties. Aesthetically, collectors enjoy the beauty and durability of silver plate and sterling silver tableware. As an appreciating asset, investors are rewarded by the 'stored value' especially of antique sterling silver flatware. This kind of 'asset' benefits investors and collectors for that matter against inflation and currency devaluation.

So, whether you are a casual collector of serious investor in the antique silver plate and sterling silver niche, there are several benefits and rewards that will be enjoyed including aesthetics, utility and financial dividends.

Silver Leonard is owner and Webmaster of several niche focused websites. Collecting and investing in Antique Silver Plate and Sterling Silverware can be rewarding as a hobby or investment. Visit AntiqueSilver for researching and buying bargains.

The most important decision you make, and the one with the permanent consequences, is which pattern you decide to buy. Look closely in eBay antiques/Silver/Sterling/Flatware at the categories for each manufacturer. If there is a collection for sale, search for other listings that use this pattern name to get some idea of how common this pattern is on eBay.

Sometimes you will find sellers listing collections without a pattern name, though that is getting less common over the last several years. Most sellers, even if it is their first time on eBay, realize that they will get a higher price if they do a little research on any of the many pattern identification websites so they can post the actual name of the pattern in the title of the listing.

Most sterling silver flatware will show some signs of use, but silver can be easily polished using a silver cream, and unless an item is seriously abused, flatware pieces will quickly and easily polish up so that you will be proud to have them on your table. Be very careful of black pitting on stainless steel knife blades, as this does not remove easily (or at all), and items with these marks should be avoided if at all possible.

Some sterling silver pieces may require a bit more elbow grease (that means more vigorous and longer polishing) than others, particularly the bowls of serving spoons for example, but generally there is little to worry about with any listing that gives a full description and provides good quality close-up photos. Another thing that can happen is the blades of knives can come loose from the sterling handles, but this is quite rare in my experience and any seller that doesn't acknowledge even the slightest wobble whatsoever in a listing is far over the line into misrepresentation and refund time.

The Sterling Silver Flatware is an online store with hundreds of different Sterling Silver Flatware at discounted price.

If you adore the look and feel of silver jewelry then you probably already realize there's vast selection of jewelry to choose from on the market today. This can make it difficult to know where to shop and what to buy. Whether you're shopping for jewelry online or in a jewelry or department store, there are several things to look for to ensure you're getting a great piece of jewelry.

First, consider the source. Look for jewelry stores online or off-line that offer quality jewelry pieces at an affordable rate. Be sure the store is reputable and offers informative descriptions and accurate photos of the silver jewelry that's being offered. Store clerks or online sales representatives should provide prompt answers to your questions and be willing to help you find that special silver jewelry chain, earrings, pendants or other items for your needs. If shopping online, be sure the company offers secure ordering methods before entering your credit card information.

Know the difference between custom or handmade silver jewelry and manufactured jewelry. Handmade jewelry offers added benefits such as the ability to order your silver chains "by the inch" and the ability to choose the type of clasp you want for necklaces, bracelets or anklets. If you want specialty jewelry, use keywords in the search field online to search for specific types of jewelry, such as "handcrafted Bali jewelry" or "handmade silver herringbone chains."

Sterling Silver Markings

Be sure you're getting a true silver product by looking for the markings of sterling silver. Sterling silver contains 92.5 percent silver, or 925 parts per thousand. Fine silver is 99.9 percent silver, but is also softer and may easily be scratched or damaged. Sterling silver is durable for everyday wear and more affordable. If buying sterling silver with gemstones, make sure the stones are of high quality as well as the silver jewelry itself.

Take Accurate Measurements

If ordering handmade jewelry, be sure to measure properly to ensure you'll get the right size. Handmade jewelry may or may not be refundable because it has been made to your specifications. If you need a silver chain, be sure to measure your neckline properly and allow an extra inch or two for breathing room. There's nothing worse than receiving a beautiful necklace that's too tight! Also take appropriate measurements for silver rings, bracelets, cufflinks and anklets.

Accessorize Before You Buy

Learn to imagine what the jewelry will look like when wearing it with certain outfits or colors. Try to find silver jewelry that will go well with several outfits so you can get more wear out of your jewelry items. You can buy a silver chain and wear several different silver pendants with the same chain depending on your mood for the day or the type of outfit you're wearing.

Buy silver rings, earrings and even hair barrettes to match your chains to complete your ensemble. Look for silver jewelry that expresses your personality, whether bold, shy or colorful! Do you go for the daring look or a more traditional style? Silver jewelry comes in so many styles that it's easy to find exactly what you need.

Silver jewelry also makes a wonderful gift for holidays, birthdays, anniversaries or any gift occasion. Beautiful handmade silver jewelry is something you might want to consider as a gift or collectible jewelry that you can pass on as a family heirloom. Whether buying for yourself or that special someone, use these tips to find high quality silver jewelry today.

Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web.
Learn more about Silver Jewelry.

Mexico is one of the countries rich in silver deposits. The design of the jewelry is influenced by many things.The Mexican silver jewelry tells a lot about the religion and mindset of Mexican people. Mexican jewelry is rich in colors and is characterized by the expert craftsmanship.

If somebody will have a look at vintage Mexican jewelry he can see an eagle assay mark. There are people whose work is highly prized. Some of them are Los Castillo, Margot De Taxco and William Spratling.

Since time immemorial Silver has been used for the purpose of decoration - both home and individuals. In earlier days silver was called fine silver jewelry owing to the fact that it was 100% pure. As it is a soft metal in its pure form it used to get discoloured with the passage of time. Often it lost its shape and used to get badly damaged. In order to overcome these drawbacks, sterling silver was produced.

Sterling is 925 pure silver mixed with other metals such as copper and zinc. The advantage of sterling silver is that it is harder and less prone to damage. Once it is coated in Rhodium or another heavy metal it will not tarnish. Otherwise also, it is very easy to clean and take care of.

Usually silversmiths and professional jewellers alone are responsible for making fine silver jewelry. Individuals do not have any role here to make personalized pieces of the same. There is no exciting way to make fine silver jewellery attractive for common people. On the other hand sterling, a popular silver mixture called an alloy can be used to make exciting silver jewelry. The minimum silver content is stated as 925 parts per thousand of pure silver. To mark silver content in sterling silver, the figures 925 or 92.5 is used.

There are certain tips to be followed by importers to buy sterling silver jewelry. The FTC, US Federal Trade Commission has made it mandatory that jewelry sold in the US cannot be marked as silver, solid silver, sterling silver or any other abbreviation unless it contains at least 92.5 percent pure silver. A jewelry stamped with 'ster', 'sterling' or '925' is an indication that it is 925/1,000ths pure silver. It is a very strict rule which cannot be violated, that unless the criterion is met it cannot be even called silver. Copper is the commonly used metal to round out the 7.5 percent alloy balance in sterling silver. Even though it adds hardness to pure silver, it bring along a tendency to tarnish. This darkening occurs when sterling silver reacts with gases in the air or with other substances that it comes into contact with. It should be understood that any silver coloured jewelry is more commonly referred to as being made from base metals like copper and steel.

When you take the decision to buy a piece of jewelry for yourself or your loved ones it is always better to go to an authentic dealer. Finalise the item after you shop around comparing quality, price and service. It is important to ask for the refund and return policy before you make the purchase. Checking for the apt markings on metal jewelry is indispensable along with asking the dealer whether the pearls are natural, cultured or imitation. You should also know whether the gem stones have been treated and special care is needed. Relevant information regarding the gem's weight or size is to be written on the sales receipt compulsorily.

Silver jewelry is enjoying much popularity these days. So be a little careful while buying and relish the attention and admiration you get flaunting them.

If you are looking for more information then feel free visit Avila Sterling