Working with Silver for Sculptors: Melting & Considerations

Question
Mr. Kretser,

I a metal sculptor and I am trying for the first time to work with silver. I am going to run my first test but the only silver that I have is an old silverware set. I think it is silver and I have run some simple tests that I have read on the internet to make sure that it is real silver. So far, according with with my primitive tests it looks like it is silver so I am going to start melting the pieces to create a small lingot. what do I have to look for when melting it that shows me that I really have real silver.

Thank you

Answer
How are you testing it? Are you using nitric acid? This is the best and cheapest way in order to tell relative purities and authenticity. You can get this at a coin dealer in your town. does the silverware you are using say 925 or the word sterling on it anywhere?  If not deeply scrath the item with a file and drop on the nitric. If it turns creme white it is a high grade of silver like Sterling. The browner the result the lower grade obviously. Most silverware is plated silver over base metal and the scratch test will result in a bubbling green color. Good luck.

Steve Kretser