The first thing you need to know about investing in gold-plated flatware is that not every piece of gold-toned flatware contains gold. That’s true because. . .
The best gold flatware is scratch-resistant, won’t chip or fade over time, and can be used in a variety of different settings, from formal meals to cocktail parties. And happily, it doesn’t have to cost a fortune, so there’s no need to save it for hosting fancy parties.
Where Can You Buy Gold-Plated, Gold-Toned, and Gold-Plated Silverware?
First of all, don’t buy gold-toned stainless steel tableware, which doesn’t contain any gold. Gold-plated silver tableware, however, can contain enough gold and silver to bring you a profit.
Where can you buy these items at low prices? Here are some places to try:
- Catering halls that are going out of business. Although there are exceptions, people generally do not buy and use gold and gold-toned knives, forks, and spoons in their homes. That explains why you are more likely to find it in catering establishments. The whole point of gold-toned and gold-plated flatware is to impress people, which makes it a natural for use at wedding receptions and other special, high-end events. If you can find a catering establishment that is closing down or selling off equipment, however, you might be able to find some gold-toned flatware. Just be forewarned that the gold-colored items you will find will almost certainly be made of gold-toned stainless steel, therefore not valuable. How can you tell? If you have a trained eye, stainless steel simply looks like stainless steel, even if it is colored to look like gold. Also, a quick test performed with an inexpensive gold testing kit (you can find them for sale in Amazon.com) will help you tell whether the flatware you are looking at is really plated with gold.
- Estate sales and online sellers. If you are fortunate, you might find a storage chest that contains a set of gold-plated silverware that might contain enough gold and silver to extract. (Again, be aware that the collectible value of older gold-plated tableware could exceed the value of the precious metals it contains.) How can you tell if you are looking at this kind of tableware? First, look for stampings on it; each piece should be stamped with a hallmark that says something like, “14K gold plated.” Another indication is that genuine gold-plated silverware often shows signs of wear, in the form of small scratches or swirls that have resulted from repeated polishing. Gold and silver, after all, are soft metals that do not resist abrasion. That also explains why you will probably not find this kind of flatware in catering halls or restaurants; it is elegant and intended for use in the home, where it needs polishing, protection, and only occasional use.
- Odd pieces here and there. Spoons, knives, and forks have a way of turning up in all kinds of places – in trays and displays in antique stores, in house sales, and even in your family’s possessions. It could just be that that single, odd gold-colored piece contains enough gold to recycle.
Gold Silverware Set *after using in dishwasher for 2 months*
FAQ
Does gold-plated flatware tarnish?
How do you keep gold silverware gold?
How can you tell if flatware is gold-plated?
Can you put gold flatware in the dishwasher?
Is gold flatware a good choice?
Gold flatware is a great choice for those who want a set for both everyday use and formal use, which will also save space. It’s a good idea to have one set of flatware for each dinnerware set you have in your home, though the number may go up if you entertain often.
Is gold flatware food safe?
It is also food-safe. Gold flatware will either be covered in gold plating or a gold PVD finish. PVD is generally considered to be a higher-quality material because it’s welded to the steel at a molecular level. With rare exceptions, you’ll either buy flatware in a set of five or 20.
What is a gold finish on flatware?
A gold finish on flatware can cater to both contemporary and vintage styles—whether you’re stocking up for special occasions or simply looking to turn your lunch break into a more elegant experience. A shiny rose gold is the perfect way to upgrade a modern kitchen, while a deep, rich shade of matte gold will attract any antique-lover.
Is this matte gold flatware set dishwasher safe?
This matte gold flatware set is heavy, balanced, and dishwasher safe. It includes 20 pieces for four place settings worth of dinner forks, salad forks, large spoons, small spoons, and knives. The flatware is 18/10 stainless steel with a PVD color finish, and everything is designed in Vancouver and crafted in Portugal.