What Causes Silver Marks on Old Pottery?

Silverware or Aluminum Marks

• Most silver marks seen on old pottery can be explained very simply: it just comes with general use. If you use your old pottery occasionally, or even only for special events, you will eventually see the silver marks. Silverware and aluminum utensils can easily scratch the surface of your pottery -- especially if the pottery glaze has worn off with time -- leaving the markings. To prevent this from happening, never stack utensils on top of the pottery and never wash your old pottery in the dishwasher. Keep pottery vases or other decorative pieces several inches away from walls or surfaces to prevent scratching.

Mineral Deposits

• Mineral deposits can also explain why you can see silver marks on your old pottery. The clay that was used to make your pottery was rich in minerals. These minerals, like iron oxide, aluminum, silicates, feldspar, calcium and even the decomposition of vegetable and animal matter, are what create different colors, strengths and durability in pottery. These minerals can also leave silver marks -- as well as calcium, lime and rust stains -- on your pottery.

Removing the Marks

• You can remove the silver marks with a few different remedies. First, try erasing the marks by using a white rubber eraser over the blemishes. You can also try to erase the marks by gently rubbing them using a fine scour pad and a household lubricant. Rubbing a baking soda paste onto the marks with a damp sponge will also help to make them disappear. If the marks are still visible, try using a little metal polish on a clean rag or sponge. Buff the pottery with a new clean rag when finished. If the markings are from mineral deposits, simply soak the pottery in full-strength white vinegar for one to two days.

Cleaning the Pottery

• Cleaning your pottery vases, dinnerware or other decorative pieces with an ammonia and water mixture once a year will help to keep your old pottery looking like new. Soak the pottery in a bucket filled with 2 gallons of hot water and 1 cup of ammonia. Allow the pottery to soak for a full 24 hours. For dinnerware, wash your dishes only by hand using a mild dish detergent and sponge. Never wash your pottery dinnerware in the dishwasher.