THE STRENGTH OF UNTREATED GERMAN SILVER.
At A. Lange & Söhne, this alloy is traditionally used for the production of plates and bridges. It is stronger than brass, the metal customarily selected for such parts, and it is composed mainly of copper, nickel, and zinc. The latter element allows it to oxidise only to a small extent. German silver reacts very slowly when exposed to oxygen in the air and in the course of time, this alloy is coated with a beautiful golden-yellow patina that protects the material against further oxidation, thus eliminating the need for protective electroplating. This is why German silver can remain in its natural “untreated” state.