How do I clean hand engraved silver?

Use a soft cloth and a gentle, non-abrasive silver polish to avoid wearing down the sharp edges of the tool work. Wash away residue in warm soapy water and dry thoroughly with a lint-free cloth. Avoid liquid dips entirely, as harsh chemical solutions strip the dark oxidisation from recessed lines that gives the engraved design its contrast and definition.

Were these items meant for daily use?

Many pieces served specific functional roles in period homes, from christening mugs and card cases to tea caddy spoons and dressing table sets. Others, such as presentation trowels and salvers, commemorated civic events and milestones. Today, smaller items like pill boxes and bangles adapt easily to modern use, while delicate glass claret jugs and trays require careful handling.

How do I date an engraved piece?

British silver typically bears hallmarks stamped directly into the metal, indicating the assay office, standard, and a specific year letter code. Maker marks provide further clues to the exact decade of production. When hallmarks are absent, stylistic clues such as Aesthetic Period motifs, Victorian cartouches, or mid-century Scandinavian lines help narrow the era.

What is the difference between engraving and chasing?

Engraving involves cutting metal away from the surface using a sharp steel graver to leave clean, bright lines and grooves. It creates flat, precise patterns like monograms, scrolls, and florals. Chasing pushes the metal from the front using hammer and punches to displace material and form raised relief designs without removing any silver.

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Hand Engraved Silver

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When you search for hand engraved silver, you find pieces shaped by sharp steel tools into florals, scrolls and crests across the Georgian and Victorian eras up to mid-century modern designs.