GERMAN SILVER, the name given to an alloy of nickel, zinc, and copper, which is much used as a substitute for silver plate, &c. Its beauty and resemblance to silver depend on the preponderance of nickel, up to a certain point. The imitation may be so perfect as to evade detection by the eye; but friction applied to this alloy at once develops a coppery odour. The proportions recommended are—nickel 25, zinc 25, copper 50.