How do I clean silver mounts?

Use a soft cloth and a dedicated silver polish, taking care to avoid abrasive contact with the adjacent glass, ceramic or wood surfaces. Keep polish away from the crevices of chased or engraved ornament by applying it sparingly with a cotton bud.

Can I use these for serving food?

Most glass and ceramic vessels with silver mounts remain entirely functional for serving condiments, biscuits, wine or salads at the modern table. Check that any antique cement securing the glass to the metal mount has not dried out before filling with liquids.

What is the difference between sterling and plate?

Sterling silver contains a legally regulated high proportion of pure silver and usually bears official assay office hallmarks stamped into the metal. Silver plate consists of a thin coating over a base metal, which may show base metal underneath where the coating has worn through over generations of use.

How do I identify the period?

Consult the hallmarks on the silver mounts, which often include date letters and maker's marks corresponding to specific assay office records. Stylistic cues such as the heavy cutting of Victorian glass or the clean lines of Edwardian mounts also point toward a period of manufacture.