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Frequently Asked Questions

Cutlery FAQ's

What is 18/10?

18/0 and 18/10 refer to materials added to the steel to protect the cutlery from rust and the effects of acids in foods and cleaning products.

18/10 is the finest quality stainless steel available. 18/10 stainless steel contains 18% Chrome and 10% Nickel.

18/0 cutlery contains no Nickel and hence it has a lower level of protection. The cost of additional Nickel is reflected in the cost of the product and also in the available guarantee, which tends to be much greater with 18/10 products.

What is Tarnish?

Tarnish is a natural occurrence developing on any silver or silver plated item. It is simply as reaction to chemicals in the air or traces remaining from contact with various foodstuffs and develops as an oxidised layer. This reaction is merely cosmetic and not harmful to the cutlery. It may appear in one of several ways – a general loss of shine, golden film or surface spots which appear to be in the metal itself.

What are the causes?

Common causes are found in foods, chemicals and pollutants I e mayonnaise, eggs, vinegars, bleach, rubber and cigarette/fire smoke.

Can it be prevented?

If after using your cutlery you remove all traces of food and follow the washing recommendations the possibility of tarnish developing will be minimised. Where possible store your cutlery in a lined cabinet (canteen) or cutlery roll to provide further protection.

How do I remove tarnish?

If tarnish appears it can be removed by using a proprietary silver cleaning product in accordance with their instructions. We do not advocate the use of dips or plates where the cutlery is immersed in the solution or left to soak with a plate of another metal as this will most certainly cause a harsh reaction and result in marking the material.