How were silver glass open salts used?

Diners placed these small open vessels on the dining table to hold salt. Guests used miniature spoons or pinches of fingers to take salt from the dish. The glass liners protected the silver metal from the corrosive properties of salt. Condiment stands often held multiple open salts for various seasonings.

How do I care for silver glass open salts?

Lift the glass liners out of the silver frames before cleaning the metal and glass separately. Wash the glass liners in warm soapy water and dry them thoroughly. Polish the sterling silver or silver plate gently with a suitable cloth. Avoid submerging cased sets or glued components in water.

How can I tell Victorian salts from Edwardian ones?

Victorian examples often feature heavier cast ornamentation, French Rococo influence, and pierced serpentine bodies. Hallmarks stamped inside the metal provide precise assay office dates. Edwardian pieces frequently display lighter silver wirework and simpler boat shapes. Stylistic cues like Art Nouveau curves also help distinguish the eras.

Why do some salts have coloured glass liners?

Coloured glass added vibrant contrast to bright silver frames on formal dining tables. Cobalt blue, green, and cranberry glass liners became popular choices during the nineteenth century. Maker glasshouses such as Moser produced specialised vessels to fit custom silver mounts. These liners also concealed any residue left by damp table salt.