Is NI the same as Nickel Silver?

Yes. NI, Nickel Silver, German Silver all denote the same material — other metals. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.

How do I confirm a NI stamp is genuine?

Look at the mark under 10× magnification for crisp, even strikes, cross-check the weight-to-volume ratio against the expected density (8.7 g/cm³ for this alloy), scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

* Other Metals hallmark

The NI hallmark: meaning, purity & value

NI / nickel silver is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy with no elemental silver. Not scrap-silver.

Published May 30, 2026

Quick facts

Metal: Other Metals
Common regions: United States, European Union
Density: 8.7 g/cm³
Standard: ISO 9202

Stamps that mean the same thing

This purity may be struck into jewelry as any of: NI / Nickel Silver / German Silver. The mark differs by country and era, but the metal content is identical.

What NI tells you

NI / nickel silver is a copper-nickel-zinc alloy with no elemental silver. Not scrap-silver.

How to check it yourself

Examine the stamp under a 10× loupe — genuine marks are crisp and evenly struck, not doubled or smeared.
Confirm the mark reads NI or an equivalent such as Nickel Silver.
Weigh the piece and estimate its volume — the density should land near 8.7 g/cm³ for this alloy.
Photograph it in the Jewelry Identifier app to read the metal, hallmark, and any gemstones from the image.
For a binding result, have an assay office or gemological lab run an XRF purity test.

Sources

ISO 9202
Trade hallmark references

* Frequently asked

FAQ

Q. Is NI the same as Nickel Silver?: A. Yes. NI, Nickel Silver, German Silver all denote the same material — other metals. Different markets and eras stamp it differently, but the purity is identical.
Q. How do I confirm a NI stamp is genuine?: A. Look at the mark under 10× magnification for crisp, even strikes, cross-check the weight-to-volume ratio against the expected density (8.7 g/cm³ for this alloy), scan it with the Jewelry Identifier app, and — when it matters — have an XRF test done by an assay office or gemological lab.

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