Nickel silver first became popular as a base metal for silver-plated cutlery and other silverware, notably the electroplated wares called EPNS (electro-plated nickel silver). It is used in zippers, good quality keys, costume jewellery, for making musical instruments (e.g., flutes, clarinets).

How do you remove tarnish from Epns?

Run the EPNS through warm water to wash off the soap residue. Take the utensils or cutlery and dry them with paper towels or soft cloth kitchen towels. Drain the soapy water from the sink. Plug the sink again to remove tarnish from the EPNS utensils or cutlery.