Elkington and Co Silver
Elkington and co silver brings exceptional British manufacturing history to the table, offering everything from solid sterling candlesticks to plated cruet sets.
Elkington and co silver pieces
When searching for elkington and co silver, buyers encounter a diverse range of domestic metalwork spanning multiple decades and stylistic movements. These creations comprise tableware, lighting and decorative accessories designed for functional use in formal and casual settings.
The objects appearing on this page span several distinct periods including Victorian, Edwardian, and mid-century eras. Common forms encompass candlesticks, cream and sugar sets, and trinket boxes, alongside larger functional items.
Originating predominantly from British workshops, these items reflect both sterling silver and silver-plated construction. Buyers frequently discover pieces that bridge utilitarian purpose with decorative craftsmanship.
Defining characteristics of quality
The distinction between standard items and exceptional pieces rests upon the crispness of cast decoration and the integrity of the underlying metal. Hand-made elements, such as those found on mid-century candlesticks, display individual craftsmanship that differentiates them from mass-produced wares.
Preservation of surface plating and clear hallmarks also dictate the standing of a piece within its category. Items featuring complex multi-part assemblies, such as multi-light candelabra or fitted condiment sets, reveal superior technical ambition by the maker.
Listings feature sterling silver and silver plate across Victorian, Edwardian, and mid-century periods.
Elkington and Co·Elkington and Mason and Co
The Elkington and Co Silver Glossary
- Silver plate
- A manufacturing method where a thin layer of silver is bonded to a base metal core. This technique allowed Victorian households to acquire ornate tableware at a lower cost than solid sterling alternatives.
- Cruet set
- A collection of small glass bottles or containers held in a frame for holding condiments at the dining table. Elkington versions often incorporated multiple cut glass vessels with fitted silver mounts.
- Hallmark
- An official stamp applied to precious metals indicating the standard of purity, the assay office, and the date of production. British sterling pieces carry these marks to confirm their composition.
- Electroplating
- A chemical process for depositing a layer of silver onto a base metal using electrical current. Elkington held key patents for this industrial breakthrough, transforming the metalware market.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I clean silver plate?
Clean silver plate gently using a soft cloth and a specialised non-abrasive silver cleaner designed to protect the thin surface layer from wear.
Avoid harsh scrubbing or chemical dips that can strip the plating and expose the base metal underneath.
Are Elkington items always marked?
Most pieces carry specific stamps or maker marks identifying the firm alongside date letters or registry marks.
Some items may show signs of wear near the stamp due to decades of polishing.
How do I date an Elkington piece?
Dating relies upon official Birmingham assay office letter marks stamped directly onto sterling silver items.
Plated goods often use a system of numerical codes or symbols stamped near the maker name to indicate the year of production.