How are letter knives dated?

Silver pieces usually carry hallmark letters corresponding to specific assay office date cycles. Additional clues come from the accompanying materials, such as tortoiseshell or enamel styles typical of the Edwardian or Art Deco eras.

What is the difference between a letter knife and a page turner?

Letter knives feature shorter, often sharper blades intended for slicing open paper envelopes. Page turners are longer and broader with blunt edges, built to slide smoothly through the folded pages of bound books.

Were these items used only for mail?

Many designs incorporated secondary functions like pencils, seals, and perpetual calendars into the handle. Others took novelty forms like foxes or owls, serving as decorative ornaments as well as practical stationery tools.

How do I care for silver and tortoiseshell?

Keep tortoiseshell away from direct heat and moisture to prevent warping or cracking of the organic material. Clean the silver components gently with a soft cloth, avoiding abrasive polishes that might damage inlaid stones or enamel.