Have a number of Silversmiths in our ancestors some are stated to be German silversmiths others just Silversmiths is there a difference between the two? Thankyou for any help.

Jane,
German Silver is an alloy of Copper and Nickel which was developed in Germany in the 19th century.
It contains no silver. It's melting point is about 300 degrees Celsius higher than silver, so is presumably more difficult to work with.
Dave