How do I clean tarnished silver candle sticks?

Use a specialised silver polish and a soft microfiber cloth to gently remove tarnish without scrubbing. Avoid abrasive pads that can wear through thin silver plating or scratch the surface. For weighted pieces, keep the base dry during cleaning to prevent moisture from damaging the internal filling. Store them in a low-humidity environment to slow down future tarnishing.

What is the difference between sterling silver and silver plate?

Sterling silver consists of solid silver alloyed with other metals for durability, marked with official hallmarks indicating purity. Silver plate involves a thin layer of silver bonded to a base metal such as copper or nickel. Plated items offer the visual appeal of silver at a different weight and construction standard. Over time, heavy polishing can reveal the base metal beneath the plating on older pieces.

Were all pairs originally sold together?

Most matching pairs were manufactured and retailed as a set to balance decorative schemes on mantelpieces or sideboards. Some surviving pairs have been successfully matched together later by dealers based on size, period, and design. Examining the hallmarks, base construction, and wear patterns helps determine if two pieces share the same origin. Minor variations in height or weight can sometimes occur even in original factory pairs.

How do I date an antique pair?

Makers' marks, style indicators, and silver hallmarks provide the most reliable dating evidence. British sterling silver typically carries assay office symbols and date letters that pinpoint the exact year of manufacture. Unmarked plated items are dated through stylistic clues, construction methods, and base materials. Comparing the form to documented design periods narrows down the decade of production.