How do I date antique silver?

Dating relies on the assay office hallmarks stamped directly onto the metal, which include a specific letter code for the year of production. Additional clues come from the style of the object, the form of the maker's mark, and any engraved monograms or crests contemporary with the piece.

What is the difference between silver and sterling silver?

Pure silver is generally too soft for practical items, so it is alloyed with other metals to create sterling silver, which contains 92.5 percent pure silver. Items meeting this standard typically display a lion passant mark or the word sterling to guarantee the metal composition.

How should I clean antique silver?

Cleaning requires a soft cloth and a specialised silver polish formulated to remove tarnish without stripping the underlying metal or wearing down fine engravings. Harsh abrasive dips should be avoided, particularly on pieces with enamel, glass inserts, or darkened antique patinas in recessed areas.

Did women work as silversmiths?

Historical records show that female silversmiths operated registered workshops and entered maker's marks at the assay offices, particularly in the Georgian era. Pieces bearing the registered marks of makers such as Elizabeth Morley offer tangible evidence of women running independent silversmithing businesses.