Sterling Silver Overlay

Looking to buy sterling silver overlay? Want to know about all the different styles of silver overlay available? Read our guide for more information on choosing the right overlay for you…

Variety of Silver Overlay

Numerous items were enhanced with sterling silver overlay in the turn of the last century. Antique sterling silver overlay perfume bottles from the early 20th century were ornately crafted with bell shaped or rounded stoppers. Art nouveau design of flora and fauna interspersed with scrolls in sterling silver overlay was a favorite motif of classic perfume bottles.

Attractive decanters were made with adorned silver overlay accents. Stoppers made from sterling silver nuzzled in the mouth of the decanter while the body boasted elaborate decorations fashioned from silver overlay. Crystal flower vases were artfully enhanced in beauty with heavy gauge sterling silver overlay in exquisite patterns.

Silver overlay in vegetal motifs of vines and creepers with stems were a preferred decoration for crystal goblets with firm silver handles. Belt buckles and bud vases were crafted with silver overlay which was less expensive than solid silver.

Distinctness of Silver Overlay

Sterling silver overlay is actually a thick layer of sterling silver on metal. Differing from sterling silver plating in thickness, silver overlay is laid over a base metal to enable the metal to become firmer and less prone to bending.

The thick layer of silver allows engraving to be done on the surface and will tarnish without proper care. Silver overlay will be clearly marked as “sterling silver overlay” to distinguish it from solid sterling silver 925.

You must view the marking on silver items to determine the silver content before making a purchase. As the amount of silver used in sterling silver overlay is fairly large, products that have been overlaid with sterling silver are costly.

Caring for Silver Overlay Plates

You must take special care of your silver overlay serving plates to ensure they last a lifetime:

•    Don’t serve any eggs as the sulphur content in the eggs will adversely affect the overlay.
•    Don’t wash the silver overlay plates in the dishwasher. Always use a warm water and mild washing liquid.
•    Don’t cut meats or bread on the plate. The knife will scratch the silver overlay.

Sterling silver overlay perfume bottles and glass vases from the last century are now collectors’ items that will add charm and elegance to your home.