How do I clean an antique decanter?

Fill the vessel with warm water and specialised cleaning beads, avoiding harsh chemical abrasives that might scratch the interior or damage old glass. Allow the piece to air dry completely upside down on a soft cloth before replacing the original stopper.

Can I still use these bottles for serving?

Many Victorian and Georgian decanters remain entirely functional for serving spirits and wine at the modern dining table. Inspect the interior for residue or cloudiness first, and ensure any silver collars are dry after washing.

How do I date an engraved bottle?

Examine the style of the lettering, the depth of the wheel-cutting, and the presence of any silver hallmarks or registration marks. Georgian pieces often display deeper, bolder wheel work, while Victorian examples frequently pair cut crystal with sterling silver collars.

What is the difference between a decanter and a perfume bottle?

Decanters are substantially larger vessels designed for holding wine or spirits on a sideboard, typically featuring a heavy glass stopper. Perfume and scent bottles are pocket or dressing table sized, frequently fitted with screw caps, hinged silver lids, or glass dabbers.