Two cups

These both started out looking the same dull black

The left one is Middletown 'BC GILT', the right is Pairpoint 'Quadruple plate'.

The Middletown shined instantly with an ammonia based polish with no hint of plate loss

The Pairpoint wouldn't show a silver color with sanding but has no sign of wear

I've seen many like the Pairpoint. Apparently they are just lead laden pewter and the 'Quadruple plate' mark was just pure fraud.

 

Hi Terry,
No the mark was not fraud, a lot of base metal pieces will shine with polish. Once all the silver plating is gone the pieces will look like yours.
I have had several trays where I had all the silver removed and "butler" polished them.
greg

 

If Carson did your trays, I'm sure they look wonderful!

Even better if I could have him carrying them about...sigh...

 

Hi Silver,
I was talking about a "butler's polish" which is a little less than gleeming. I think it is an old time saying about it being clean and usable with a soft sheen not bright and shiny. perhaps my age is showing again.
greg

 

With the raised areas and such there would be a hint of plate in those recesses. The cut is still bright.