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Flatware 101

Get the 411 on different types of flatware before you add them to your wish list. By Amy LeBlanc

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You’ve put careful consideration into your wedding registry, and flatware is one of those precious things on your wish list. Before making your final choice, know what to look for when selecting flatware—these simple tips will help you make a sterling choice!

Sterling Silver
Material: Since pure silver is too soft a metal to craft quality flatware, sterling silver is a combination of 92.5 percent silver and 7.5 percent base metal, usually copper, for strength.
Quality:Before purchasing your sterling silver flatware, be sure to check for a “sterling” or “925” stamp to confirm authenticity. For high-quality sterling silver, check to see if the pattern is on both the front and the back. Sterling silver is dishwasher-safe, as long as it’s not mixed with stainless steel flatware. The chemical reaction between the two metals causes pits and stains. Jackie Chiesa of William Ashley warns “the harsh environment of a dishwasher can accelerate the rate of patina on silver flatware.”
Cost:Be prepared to spend at least $300 per 5-piece place setting for good quality sterling silver flatware.

Silver Plate
Material:Silver plate is made by chemically bonding 100 percent pure silver to a base metal (usually copper, nickel, or zinc).
Quality:“Quality is one of the most important considerations when selecting silver plate flatware,” explains Chiesa. The silver plating must adhere to the base metal or the plating may wear off over time. Choosing a base metal such as nickel, which bonds well with silver, is a good way to avoid the repercussions of purchasing a cheaper quality of silver plate flatware.
Cost:Good quality silver plate flatware begins around $100 per 5-piece place setting.

Stainless Steel
Material:Stainless steel is an iron-carbon alloy that contains a minimum of 10.5 percent chromium. As its name would suggest, stainless steel will not stain, rust or corrode very easily. This does not mean that stainless steel will never tarnish, but it is unlikely.
Quality:Look for stainless steel flatware that is marked 18/8 or 18/10. This means that it has 18 percent chromium for strength and 8 or 10 percent nickel for shine.
Cost:The price of stainless steel flatware begins at approximately $20 per 5-piece place setting.

Quick Shopping Tips

• Handle your flatware before purchasing it. Pick it up. Make sure it feels right. You’ll be less likely to use your new flatware if it feels too heavy or if the balance is off.
• When purchasing your flatware, keep in mind that your dinnerware will be the most pronounced feature on your table so it is typically best to choose that before deciding on your flatware. As Chiesa says, “Your china acts as the focal point for your table, so similarly when choosing an outfit, the dress is the china and the crystal and flatware complement that look.”
• Discuss your needs with the salesperson. Are you looking for daily or formal flatware? Have you chosen your china yet? The more information you give the salesperson, the better your chances of selecting a flatware that suits your table and your lifestyle.

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