Nikkelzilver

Nikkelzilver, also known as German silver or alpaca silver, is a copper alloy. Its primary components are copper, nickel, and zinc. The typical composition can vary, but it often contains around 60% copper, 20% nickel, and 20% zinc. Despite its name, nikkelzilver does not contain any silver. It gets its name from its silvery appearance, which makes it a common substitute for actual silver in many applications.

This alloy is known for its durability, resistance to corrosion, and malleability. These properties make it suitable for a wide range of uses. Historically, it was widely employed in the manufacture of silverware, cutlery, and decorative objects. Today, it is still frequently used for making musical instruments, such as flutes and saxophones, as well as for coin blanks, electrical connectors, and in electroplating as a base layer. Its relatively low cost compared to precious metals makes it an economically viable choice for many industries.