How do I read a silver hallmark?

A standard British hallmark consists of a sequence of stamps including a maker's mark, a purity standard mark such as a lion passant for sterling, a town mark indicating the assay office, and a date letter. Matching the date letter against official assay tables reveals the exact year the item was tested and certified.

Were silver knives used for eating fruit?

Victorian and Georgian households used specialised fruit knives because standard steel cutlery reacted unfavourably with the acid in fresh fruit, causing unpleasant metallic tastes and staining. Silver and mother of pearl avoided this chemical reaction, preserving both the flavour of the food and the appearance of the blade.

How should I clean antique silver?

Use a soft microfiber cloth and a mild, non-abrasive silver polish formulated specifically for antique metalwork to remove tarnish gently. Avoid harsh scrubbing or chemical dips that can strip away original patination and damage organic handle materials like mother of pearl or tortoiseshell.

Can I use these knives daily?

Many antique silver knives remain structurally sound for occasional contemporary use at the dining table or desk. Hand washing is essential, as modern dishwashers use harsh detergents and high temperatures that ruin antique silver and loosen handle adhesives.