How do I clean my silver vase?

Use a soft cloth and a specialised silver polish designed to remove tarnish without scratching the metal surface. Avoid abrasive pads that can wear through silver plating or damage glass and enamel overlays. For pieces with glass inserts, remove the glass before polishing the metal components. Rinse and dry thoroughly to prevent moisture retention in crevices.

Are these vases suitable for holding water?

Many metal and glass vessels hold water safely, particularly solid sterling silver and glass forms. However, silver-plated items and those with historic joins require careful handling to prevent interior corrosion. If a piece has delicate silver overlay or a porous ceramic body, use a small glass liner inside rather than filling the vessel directly.

How can I tell silver plate from solid silver?

Examine the piece for hallmarks, which indicate solid sterling silver stamped by an official assay office. Silver plate typically displays maker marks, manufacturer initials, or specific plating designations rather than standard hallmarks. Inspect areas subject to wear, such as rims and bases, where a different base metal colour might show beneath worn silver plating.

What is the difference between Art Nouveau and Art Deco styles?

Art Nouveau designs, prevalent around nineteen hundred, feature organic forms, flowing plant motifs, and asymmetric whiplash lines. Makers utilised fluid curves in both the metal mounts and the glass bodies. Art Deco emerged later, favouring symmetry, rigid geometric lines, stepped patterns, and streamlined industrial shapes. Chrome and clean-cut silhouettes dominated this later period.