Silverware etiquette and the meanings behind silverware markings are often mysterious to many people. However, learning what the various stamps, insignias, and logos on flatware signify can provide useful information about your utensils’ origins and specialized uses. In this article, we will explore some of the common hallmarks found on silverware and explain what they mean. Whether you are curious about your antique family silver or trying to decode the markings on a new set, read on to uncover the secrets behind silverware stamps!
Silverware Hallmarks
One of the most common marks found on silverware is the hallmark. A hallmark is an official marking made on precious metals like silver, gold, and platinum to confirm their purity content. Hallmarks are applied by an assay office, which is an official bureau that regulates the quality of precious metals. Assay offices test and guarantee that silverware meets a certain standard of silver purity, usually expressed in fractions like sterling 925 (92.5% pure silver).
Here are some examples of common silver purity hallmarks you might spot on the back of spoons, forks, and knives:
Sterling Silver Hallmarks
– 925 – The most frequently used sterling silver hallmark. It indicates the item is made from 92.5% pure silver.
– 925S – Variation on 925 that explicitly includes the word “Sterling.”
– .925 – Decimal version of 925 mark.
Britannia Silver Hallmarks
– 958 – Denotes Britannia silver, which contains 95.8% pure silver.
– Britannia – Explicitly states “Britannia” for Britannia silver.
Coin Silver Hallmarks
– 900 – Indicates 90% pure silver, also known as coin silver.
– COIN – Stamp explicitly states “Coin” for coin silver pieces.
– Ag90 – Chemical abbreviation for silver (Ag) marked with purity percentage.
Silverware Maker’s Marks
In addition to purity marks, silverware will frequently bear the mark or logo of its manufacturer. These maker’s marks identify which company fabricated the silverware and when it was made. Maker’s marks can provide useful clues about your silverware’s age, origin, and history.
Some examples of well-known silverware maker’s marks include:
| Maker’s Mark | Company |
|---|---|
| Gorham lion, anchor, G | Gorham Manufacturing Company |
| Reed & Barton lion | Reed & Barton |
| Towle crown logo | Towle Manufacturing Company |
| Kirk lion crest | S. Kirk & Son |
| TIFFANY & CO. | Tiffany & Company |
| Wallace Grand Baroque logo | Wallace Silversmiths |
Researching the maker’s marks on your silverware can provide insights into its provenance. Matching logos to known silversmiths and companies allows you to date your pieces and understand their origins.
Silverware Pattern Names & Numbers
On the backside of silverware handles you may also notice names, numbers, or codes. These signify the particular silverware pattern the piece belongs to. The pattern name or number allows flatware sets to be identified and additional serving pieces can be added to the set.
Some ways silverware patterns are marked include:
– Pattern name – Examples are “Beaded Antique,” “Chantilly,” “Francis I.”
– Pattern number – Such as “1524B” or “906A.”
– Code – Might be a monogram like “GFJ” or symbol logo.
Consulting the pattern markings is useful for identifying missing serving pieces that can be purchased to complete a silverware set. The markings allow you to precisely match new pieces to the existing set.
Other Silverware Marks & Meanings
Beyond the major marks for purity, manufacturer, and pattern, you may encounter other miscellaneous stamps on your silverware that carry specific meanings. Here are some examples:
Regional Assay Office Marks
– Lion passant – Denotes the London assay office.
– Chartered anchor – Symbol for the Birmingham, UK assay office.
– Owl over a city mark – Signifies the Edinburgh, Scotland assay office.
Date Letter Marks
– Annual changed symbol – Used to show the date silver was assayed. A letter or symbol that changes each year.
Country Marks
– Kangaroo symbol – Indicates a piece was assayed in Australia.
– Sprig of oak leaves – Shows silverware was assayed in Norway.
Beaded Edge Marks
– Small dots or designs – Decorative pattern around the edge of flatware handles. Used on old Victorian and antique silver pieces.
Special Use Marks
– Deer tracks or antlers – Can denote a silver piece made specially for hunting or outdoor use.
– Crossed keys – Symbol used on proofs or sample pieces not meant for sale.
As you can see, those small markings on cutlery handles can carry a wide variety of meanings and information if you know what to look for. Learning a few key silver stamp symbols allows you to decipher your silverware’s history at a glance.
How to Read Silverware Marks
Determining what all the various silverware marks mean can seem daunting at first. However, there is a logical order you can follow to decode the marks step-by-step:
1. **Look for hallmarks** – Check first for purity marks, usually .925, 925, 900, Britannia, etc. This will tell you the quality of silver.
2. **Identify maker’s marks** – Any logos, symbols, names or signatures can pinpoint the manufacturer. Look up marks to identify.
3. **Note pattern names or numbers** – Any name, number code or monogram indicates the pattern for serving pieces.
4. **Check other marks** – Assay office, date letter, location marks, and special use symbols provide added context.
5. **Research unknown marks** – Consult silverware references, guides and experts to decipher unrecognized marks.
6. **Organize key details** – Compile a reference sheet on your silver withdetails like purity, manufacturer, year, and pattern.
With practice, you will be able to quickly spot hallmarks and distinguish sterling silver from plated pieces. Examine lots of different silverware to familiarize yourself with common marks.
Uses of Silverware Marks
Understanding silverware marks serves many important practical purposes:
– ** verifies silver purity & quality** – Hallmarks like 925 reassure you of the silver content.
– **Avoid counterfeits** – Markings distinguish real silver vs. knockoffs.
– **Identify manufacturer & origin** – Maker’s marks pinpoint where and when made.
– **Date pieces** – Special annually changing marks indicate manufacture date.
– **Match serving pieces** – Pattern names/numbers help find coordinating flatware.
– **Establish value** – Markings help determine silverware worth for insurance and resale.
– **Trace family history** – Marks tie silverware to family lineage and ancestors.
– **Authenticate antiques** – Proper marks verify age and provenance of heirlooms.
Understanding silverware marks provides insight into your silver’s background and value. So turn over that spoon, fork or knife and decipher what those little stamps are trying to tell you!
Common Questions About Silverware Marks
Confusion frequently arises over some basic questions when it comes to silverware marks and hallmarks. Here are answers to some of the top silver marking FAQs:
Where are marks located on silverware?
Marks are almost always located on the backside of the handle. Turn silverware over to find stamps on reverse side.
How do you tell stainless steel vs. silver?
Silver has purity hallmarks like 925. Stainless lacks marks and has a duller sheen. Steel is also lighter in weight than silver.
Why is some vintage silver not marked?
Lack of hallmarks on antique pieces may indicate it was made before mandatory silver marking laws. These date to the mid-1800s in many countries.
What does EPNS stand for on silverware?
EPNS stands for “electro-plated nickel silver.” This indicates silverware plated, not solid sterling.
Where can you research unidentified marks?
Consult silversmith mark guides online, in books, or enlist a silver appraiser for professional mark identification.
How old is silverware marked 925 Italy?
925 Italy silverware is modern, made after 1946 when Italy adopted 925 as the national silver standard. Not antique.
Knowing what markings signify on your flatware removes much of the mystery behind those small stamps and logos. If unsure, consult reference materials or an expert appraiser. Proper identification unlocks your silverware’s past.
Caring for Silverware with Hallmarks
Once you identify the meaning behind your silverware’s marks, you can provide proper care to preserve these important markings:
– Gently clean marks – Use soft cloth to avoid rubbing off marks over time.
– Avoid harsh chemicals – Chemicals can damage and discolor marks. Use polish formulated for silver instead.
– Store carefully – Wrap pieces individually to avoid marks rubbing together and wearing off.
– Photograph marks – Document important logos, stamps and signatures to have a record if ever worn.
– Appraise valuables – Have important antique or monogrammed silver formally appraised.
– Pass stories down – Share mark meanings with future generations so stories survive.
The small marks on silverware tell the story of each piece. With care and appreciation, you can preserve these hidden details to enrich and pass down your family silver heritage.
Conclusion
From tiny logos to ornate monograms, the markings on silverware contain a wealth of information once you understand their meaning. Hallmarks like Sterling 925 signal precious purity, while maker’s marks and pattern codes trace a set’s origins. Even antique flatware with minimal markings has a tale to tell through its period designs and regional assay stamps. So next time you set the table, turn your forks and spoons over to uncover their hidden histories! Learning to interpret silverware stamps transforms dining into a journey through family and silver legacy.