Saw a unique way of testing for Sterling Silver: Is it accurate?

[billjustbill]

I was at the local flea market this weekend and again talked with some younger fellows who were into metal detecting some, but mainly into buying and selling silver and gold.

He showed me how to check for Sterling using a gold acid testing kit...

He took his black scratch pad and rubbed a piece of .925 on it, forming one line. Using "18kt" acid, he said if it is true "Sterling" the testing acid will turn the place a light blue. It did. Then he said you can use the "14kt" acid and it will turn Sterling a 'milky white'.

Ever heard of this testing? Do you think this is accurate?

CyberDan, do you think using these processes are as accurate as the electronic machine you've learned to test Sterling with?

Thanks,
Bill

[cyberdan]

do you think using these processes are as accurate as the electronic machine you've learned to test Sterling with?

I guess it might work if he is sure what he was testing was sterling. To me it would be messy and time consuming. I don't want to be working with acids in the field especially at a yard sale.

[blai745]

I actually use the 18k acid method all the time. BTW 18k acid and black stone is one of the best ways to test silver and it should be a blotchy cloudy white for 90% silver and up. And I do this for a living buying Scrap gold and silver. I also sometimes use the RED silver acid just to be sure... I believe they dont make an electronic silver tester... Plus if you know what your doing.. 99.99% your acid is right on. And for thicker items use a filer.

[cyberdan]

I believe they dont make an electronic silver tester

You are right no makes or advertises they make an electronic silver tester. I talked to the owner of Tri-Electronics and explained to me how to use his GT-3000 to test silver. And so far it is right on. I do not think his other machines will do that.