What are the rules for buying sterling silver?

Remember the rules: Rule #1. If it ain't stamped STERLING or 925, it ain't STERLING

Rule #2. Silverware sets will have partial sterling pieces. If the forks are stamped STERLING, the other pieces such as dinner knives in the same set are STERLING HANDLES, even if they are not marked. You pay for 15 grams of sterling for dinner knives, even if they weigh 30 grams, because they are mostly stainless steel blades.

Rule #3. MOST IMPORTANT RULE: if you are not CERTAIN, DON'T BUY IT!

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