Young's Demonstrative Translation of Scientific Secrets / Or, A Collection of Above 500 Useful Receipts on a Variety of Subjects

by Daniel Young

26. SILVERING LOOKING-GLASSES WITH PURE SILVER

Prepare a mixture of 3 grains of ammonia, 60 grains of nitrate of silver, 90 minims of spirits of wine, 90 minims of water; when the nitrate of silver is dissolved, filter the liquid and add a small quantity of sugar (15 grains) dissolved in 1-1/2 oz. of water, and 1 1/2 oz. of spirits of wine. Put the glass into this mixture, having one side covered with varnish, gum, or some substance to prevent the silver being attached to it. Let it remain for a few days and you have a most elegant looking-glass, yet it is far more costly than the quicksilver.