Historical Uses of Sterling Silver

Properties of Sterling Silver

• Sterling silver is the highest grade of silver that can be conveniently worked, since a higher silver content would make the alloy too soft. Sterling silver has a bright reflective finish that gradually acquires a patina with age. The alloy is harder than gold but still pliable and supple enough to be formed into a variety of shapes. Sterling silver melts at a slightly lower temperature than gold. For a brief period in England, from 1697 to 1720, the Crown raised the required silver content of silver items to 95.8 percent. This standard is known as "Brittania" silver.

Sterling Silver for Dining

• One of the major uses of sterling silver through history has been for the manufacture of dining implements. Sterling silver plates, salvers, tureens and other table items appeared at the French court in the late 17th century. From that time forward, complete silver dining services, including flatware, were a way for a host to display his wealth and status. Often these items were engraved with the host's crest or coat of arms. Sterling silver dining items include epergnes, centerpieces, baskets, entree dishes, ladles and other serving pieces.

Sterling Silver for Drinking

• Articles used to serve drinks are another large category of historical sterling silver. Teapots, coffee pots and chocolate pots were all created out of sterling silver, as well as complete sets of cups, saucers, sugar bowls, cream jugs, tea caddies and other items to accompany them. Tea kettles and tea urns were also made of sterling silver. Sterling silver drinking vessels were commonly manufactured, including mugs, tankards, beakers, goblets, tumblers and items designed to store wine.

Jewelry and Other Sterling Silver Items

• Sterling silver, with its lustrous finish and high malleability, has been used to make all types of jewelry, including necklaces, rings, earrings, pendants, lockets, brooches, pins, bangles and bracelets. In the days when candles were the main source of domestic lighting, sterling silver played an important role in making candlesticks and candelabra. Sterling silver was also used to make mirrors as well as a variety of household items, including ink stands, picture frames, hair brushes and buckles.