Without going into the gory detail, I can tell you from personal
experience that it's difficult or impossible to get an acceptible
silver plated surface without the use of cyanide based chemicals. The
same is true for gold and other precious metals like rhodium.

You should be able to purchase the materials that you need from any
electroplating supply firm, even in the UK, although as here in the US
they may be unwilling to sell to individuals due to liability
considerations.


Harry C.