Gorham is known for producing both sterling silver and silverplate items. The company was founded in 1831 and initially focused on sterling silver, later expanding to include silverplated products. To determine whether a specific Gorham piece is silver or silverplate, you can look for markings; genuine sterling silver pieces will be marked "Sterling" or "925," while silverplate items may be marked with "EP" (electroplated) or "Silverplate."
silverplate
The EP on Gorham silver means "electro plating". It is not a sterling silver piece.
silverplate!
One way to tell the difference between silver and silverplate is to look for a hallmark or stamp that indicates the metal content. Silver will typically be marked with a number such as "925" or "Sterling," indicating that it is real silver, while silverplate will often be marked with terms like "EPNS" (Electro Plated Nickel Silver) or "A1." Additionally, silverplate will generally have a layer of another metal, such as nickel or copper, underneath the thin silver coating.
Yes, silver-plated objects can be attracted to magnets, as the underlying material beneath the silver plating may be magnetic. However, the silver plating itself does not possess magnetic properties.
Reinforced silverplate is a type of silver plating that involves a thicker layer of silver applied to a base metal, typically through electroplating. This process enhances the durability and longevity of the silver coating, making it more resistant to wear and tarnishing compared to standard silverplate. Often used for flatware and decorative items, reinforced silverplate is designed to withstand regular use while maintaining its aesthetic appeal.
Gorham Manufacturing Company began producing electroplated flatware in the mid-19th century, specifically around the 1850s. The company became known for its quality and craftsmanship in silverplate, contributing significantly to the popularity of electroplated items during that era. Gorham's innovative techniques helped establish it as a leading manufacturer in the silverware industry.
Silver plated.
The Gorham Silver EP bowl with the serial number YC799 was made in 1975. Gorham Silver uses a specific system for dating their pieces, and the "Y" indicates the year of production as 1975. The "C" typically refers to the pattern or style.
The term "-slvp-" typically refers to "silverplate," which is a process where a base metal, such as copper or brass, is coated with a thin layer of silver. This technique allows for the appearance and aesthetic of silver without the cost of solid silver items. Silverplate is commonly used in cutlery, serving dishes, and decorative items, providing a shiny finish that resembles solid silver while being more affordable and lightweight.
The marking "EP YC782" on Gorham silver indicates that the piece is made of electroplated silver (EP), specifically by the Gorham company. "YC" typically denotes the design or pattern number, while "782" might refer to a specific model or production code. This means the item is not solid silver but rather has a layer of silver applied over a base metal.
silverplate been checking on mine also