When shopping for stainless steel flatware, the difference between 18/10 and 18/0 grade stainless steel is important to understand.
You may be scratching your head and wondering: what do these mysterious numbers mean? Well, do not despair. It is not so puzzling or technical as it might seem.
Know the numbers
The 18/10 and 18/0 specifications are simply figures that illustrate the percentages of chromium and nickel content present in the stainless steel. Chromium is a hard metallic substance that helps increase product hardness. Nickel is a silvery metallic element that helps resist corrosion.
18/10 stainless steel has 18 percent chromium and 10 percent nickel content. If the product has an 18/0 construction, there is 18 percent chromium with zero nickel matter.
Understand the difference
The 18/10 and 18/0 specifications are simply figures that illustrate the percentages of chromium and nickel content present in the stainless steel. Chromium is a hard metallic substance that helps increase product hardness. Nickel is defined as a silvery metallic element that helps resist corrosion.
18/10
• Brilliant luster
• Rust-resistant material
• Durable construction
• Easy to maintain
18/0
• Soft shine
• Zero nickel content
• Economical design
• Subject to staining
Quick Tip
When purchasing flatware, be aware of both standard and European model sizes. The only differences between the two are that European flatware is generally three times bigger and heavier than standards silverware. In addition, European flatware is generally more expensive and is used on more formal tabletop settings.