How were edwardian silver salts used?

Diners used open salt cellars by taking pinches of salt with small condiment spoons or fingers, rather than shaking it over food. They sat at individual places or were shared between diners along the length of the table. The matching spoons found in cased sets were specifically proportioned to rest on the rim of the salt cellar or inside the presentation box alongside the vessel.

Why do some salts have coloured glass liners?

Coloured glass liners made from cobalt, ruby, or cranberry glass protected the sterling silver from the corrosive chemical action of salt. Unlined silver salts risked pitting and damage if salt remained in contact with the metal for extended periods. These coloured inserts also added visual contrast against pierced silver wirework and polished frames.

What is wash gilt on a salt cellar?

Wash gilt is a thin layer of gold applied electrolytically or by fire-gilding to the interior bowl of a silver salt cellar. It provided an effective barrier against salt corrosion before glass liners became ubiquitous. Over decades of use, this delicate gold layer often wears thin on the high points of the interior.

How do I date an edwardian silver salt?

British silver bears hallmarks stamped directly into the metal, indicating the assay office, the standard mark, and a specific date letter. Examining these small stamped symbols provides the exact year of manufacture and the town where the piece was tested. Unmarked pieces rely on stylistic indicators, construction techniques, and accompanying fitted presentation cases to establish their period.