Before selling silver — whether in the form of jewellery, coins, decorative items, utensils or any other article — it's important to be aware of a number of key facts about this precious metal.

1. Silver Purity: The value of silver is calculated based on the percentage of silver present in the piece, which determines its degree of purity. The type of silver most commonly used in jewellery and goldsmithing is known as "sterling silver", corresponding to Silver 925. The higher the percentage of silver, the more valuable the piece, as its degree of purity is greater.

2. Silver quotation: silver is quoted on the stock exchange, so its price is not fixed and can vary daily. To appraise a silver piece, the average quotation for the day on which the appraisal takes place is used.

3. Hallmarks: this mark guarantees the quality of the silver alloy. For silver items, the mark corresponds to an eagle's head facing left, for silver of 925 or higher, or facing right, when the silver percentage is equal to or below 835 thousandths.

4. Rarity of the piece and historical interest: Antique, rare pieces, or those of potential historical interest, are more valuable on the market, provided they are accompanied by documentation proving their origin.

5. Condition: Silver pieces are highly susceptible to the conditions of the place where they are stored and to the passage of time. If the pieces are heavily marked and in poor condition, this will affect their value.