How do I clean antique silver drops?

Use a soft cloth to gently wipe silver surfaces, avoiding abrasive dips that can strip gilding or damage soft stones like turquoise and opal. Keep moisture away from foil-backed pastes and delicate enamel work to prevent permanent clouding or lifting.

Are these earrings for pierced ears?

Many Victorian and Edwardian examples utilise hook or wire fittings designed for pierced lobes, alongside screwbacks introduced later. Check the individual listing details to confirm whether the findings match modern pierced ears or older conversion styles.

How do I date a silver pendant?

Examine the mounting style, metal combinations such as silver-topped gold, and the cut of any set diamonds or paste stones. Edwardian pieces often feature delicate platinum-on-silver filigree, whilst Art Deco items display strict symmetry and geometric motifs.

What is silver-gilded metal?

This material consists of a base metal or silver layer coated with a thin application of gold wash or leaf. It appears frequently on large decorative chandeliers to combine a silver appearance with warm golden highlights.