How to identify quality stainless steel flatware by its markings?

Stainless steel flatware is a popular choice for many households, restaurants, and hotels. It is durable, easy to clean, and resistant to rust and corrosion. However, not all stainless steel flatware is created equal. There are different grades, weights, finishes, and designs of stainless steel flatware that can affect its quality, appearance, and performance.

When we choose stainless steel flatware, we usually consider the below factors, the material, the weight, the finished surface, and the design, but when you choose from the market or shop, how to identify the quality of stainless steel by its markings?

Usually, you can see the marking on the stainless steel with the numbers 18/10, 18/8, and 18/0, 18/8 and how they indicate the percentage of chromium and nickel in the alloy. Compare the advantages and disadvantages of each grade in terms of corrosion resistance, luster, durability, and price.

We will also explain what these markings mean, and how they relate to the factors that determine the quality of flatware. By the end of this article, you will be able to choose the best stainless steel flatware for your needs and preferences.

One of the most important factors that affect the quality of stainless steel flatware is its grade. The grade refers to the composition of the alloy that makes up the flatware. Specifically, it indicates the percentage of chromium and nickel in the alloy.

Chromium and nickel are added to steel to improve its resistance to corrosion and enhance its luster. Chromium gives steel its hardness and strength, while nickel gives it its shine and polish.

The most common grades of stainless steel used in flatware are 18/10, 18/8, and 18/0. These numbers indicate the percentage of chromium and nickel in each type of stainless steel. For example, 18/10 stainless steel means that it contains 18% chromium and 10% nickel.

The higher the percentage of nickel in the alloy, the higher the quality of the stainless steel flatware. Nickel improves the corrosion resistance and luster of the alloy. It also makes it more durable and less prone to bending or breaking.

Therefore, 18/10 stainless steel flatware is considered to be the best quality. It has a high resistance to rusting or tarnishing. It also has a bright silver shine that lasts for a long time.

On the other hand, 18/0 stainless steel flatware is considered to be the lowest quality. It has no nickel in its composition. It is more susceptible to rusting or pitting. It also has a duller appearance that fades over time.

18/8 stainless steel flatware is somewhere in between 18/10 and 18/0. It has a moderate resistance to corrosion and a decent luster. However, it is not as durable or shiny as 18/10.

The grade of stainless steel flatware is usually marked on the back or handle of each piece. You can look for these markings to identify the quality of your flatware. For example, you may see "18/10" or "18-10" stamped on your spoons or forks.

However, some manufacturers may not mark their flatware with these numbers. They may use other symbols or codes instead. For example,

•  A star symbol may indicate 18/10 stainless steel

•  A circle symbol may indicate 18/8 stainless steel

•  A triangle symbol may indicate 18/0 stainless steel

So when you choose stainless steel flatware, you can generally look at its design, the polish on the surface, and finally choose the quality grade by the No. of raw material.You will choose the satisfied flatware.