German silver also known as nickel silver or pack-fong is an alloy of copper, zinc and nickel. It was first made in Europe at Hildberghausen in Germany, but was invented by the Chinese long before. German silver is made in different proportions, amongst which the following may be mentioned. Spoons and forks were made from two parts copper, one nickel, and one zinc; knife and fork handles were typically made from 5 copper, 2 nickel, 2 zinc, a mixture closely resembling alloyed silver. The addition of lead produces an alloy which appears well fitted for casts, and for making candlesticks, etc. Iron or steel, on the other hand, makes the alloy whiter, harder, and more brittle. German silver is harder than silver, and takes a high polish. It melts at a red heat, the zinc being volatilized in the open air. It is attacked by the strong acids, but it is also affected by common organic acids, such as vinegar, and by some saline solutions. Research German Silver
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Research German Silver
