How do I clean tarnished silver mirror frames?

Use a soft microfiber cloth and a mild silver polish specifically formulated for antique silver. Take care to avoid applying liquid polish directly onto glass edges or exposed velvet backing. Gentle rubbing preserves the original hallmarks and raised repousse details without wearing away the thin silver layer.

Can I replace a cracked mirror glass?

Original bevelled mirror glass adds historical value, but replacement is sometimes necessary for practical use. A local restorer can fit modern glass into the antique silver frame. Retain the old glass shards if possible, as they provide measurements and thickness details for the specialist.

What is the difference between a hand mirror and an easel mirror?

Hand mirrors feature an integrated handle designed for lifting during personal grooming. Easel mirrors incorporate a folding rear leg to stand independently on a dressing table. Both forms utilise identical silver framing techniques and date from the same Victorian and Edwardian periods.

How do I identify the date of a silver mirror?

Examine the silver frame for stamped hallmarks, which typically include a maker's mark, a lion passant, an assay office city symbol, and a date letter. Each letter corresponds to a specific year of assay. Matching these stamps against official assay records reveals the exact year the piece was tested and registered.