If you’ve always loved the beauty of sterling silver picture frames, but didn’t want to spend that much on a frame then you should look at silver plated picture frames.
Why Should I Buy Silver Plated Picture Frames?
First of all, silver plated picture frames are significantly less expensive than real sterling silver frames. That’s because rather than being 92.5% silver (by weight) like sterling silver, silver plated frames are composed of a thin layer of silver electroplated to another metal. For high quality silver plated frames, the underlying metal is brass while less expensive frames use other types of metal.
Silver plated picture frames are a great alternative to sterling silver because of this cost effective process. Silver plate allows you to have the beautiful look of real silver without the high cost. Silver plated picture frames are a great choice for a special gift or an important photo.
But before you start looking for a silver frame, here are three things to watch out for when buying a silver plated picture frame.
Make Sure it is Tarnish Resistant
Silver naturally tarnishes with age and use, but a coating or lacquer over the silver will protect the frame from tarnishing. Most new high quality silver plated frames have a tarnish resistant finish, but check with your frame retailer to be sure.
If you are going to spend your money on a high quality silver plated frame, be sure that it has a tarnish resistant finish, especially if it is a gift. Nobody wants to receive a gift that adds to their workload so never give a silver frame unless it has a tarnish resistant coating.
I highly recommend that you never buy a silver plated frame without an assurance it has a tarnish resistant surface. If you have to regularly polish your silver plated frame, chances are you won’t enjoy it and it will end up in a drawer because it is too much work to keep it shiny and looking beautiful.
Verify that the Frame is Designed for Engraving
If you want a silver plated picture frame for engraving, make sure to get a frame that is specifically made for engraving. To be engraved, a frame needs to have a smooth flat surface and the right type of finish. If you have the wrong type of silver plated frame engraved, you could end up with a two-toned engraving. The reason for this is that the metal underneath the silver eletroplated layer is not a silver colored metal. Once the frame is engraved and you realize the mistake, you will have a frame that is unattractive that you cannot return.
Know Your Budget
Whether or not you stick to a budget, it is a good idea to have a price range in mind when shopping for any quality silver frame. There is a wide range of sizes and prices so you should be able to find a frame that is exactly the right size and in the price range you want.
It is easy to spend more than you can afford – and have buyer’s remorse – if you don’t set a price range for your silver plated frame purchase. Don’t ruin your enjoyment of your beautiful new frame because you are kicking yourself for spending too much money. Find a price range that you are comfortable with and buy a gorgeous silver plated frame within that price range and you will enjoy your silver plated frame for many years.
Hopefully these tips will help you select the perfect silver plated frame for yourself or to give as a gift. With the beauty of your new silver plated frame, it will be a frame you’ll enjoy for years and something you’ll want to pass down to future generations.
Recent Comments