Hello all, I am asking this on behalf of a friend of Polish background who is researching his ancestors and their military service. Many thanks in advance cool militaria,
Regards, Tony

In order to date this photograph I would like to identify my uncle’s rank at that time. In 1915 he was 21 years old. From his military records I know this:
Sept 16, 1915 drafted as a Einjahrig-Freiwilliger
Nov. 20, 1915 promoted Korporal (2 white stars on collar?)
Jan. 1, 1916 promoted feldwebel (Master-Sergeant: 3 white stars on collar?)
Nov. 1, 1916 appointed Res. Fahnrich (Reserve? Ensign/Cadet) (1 silver star on "fancy’ collar?)
Feb. 1, 1917 appointed Res. Leutnant (Reserve? Lieutenant) (1 silver or gold star on plain collar?)
The stars on the collars came from my interpretation of this web site: Badges of Rank of the Austro-Hungarian Army 1914-1918

How does one determine if the star is silver or white in a black and white photo? Any help is appreciated.

Click to enlarge the picture