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Sterling Holloware Maintenance Tips You Need To Know

March 13, 2024 11:46 am
Archives : Decorative Art : Metals : Silver : Sterling

Sterling silver holloware adds a touch of elegance and tradition to any collection. Yet, maintaining its pristine condition requires a bit of know-how and effort. Well, we have the best advice to help you! Here are some sterling holloware maintenance tips you need to know to preserve your collection’s beauty and value for generations to come.

Gentle Hand Washing Is Key

Always opt for hand washing your sterling holloware using warm water and a mild liquid detergent. Harsh solutions or abrasive cleaning tools can scratch the surface or damage the silver. Use a soft sponge to wash the items gently, ensuring you get into all the nooks and crannies without being too forceful.

Dry Immediately To Prevent Water Spots

Water spots can detract from your silver’s appearance and contribute to tarnishing over time. So, thoroughly drying each piece is a sterling holloware maintenance tip you need to know. Make sure to use a soft, lint-free cloth for proper drying.

Polish To Preserve the Luster

Polishing your sterling holloware is essential to maintain its shine and prevent tarnish. Use a high-quality silver polish and follow the manufacturer’s instructions carefully. Apply the polish with a cloth in a circular motion and avoid over-polishing as doing so can damage the silver over time.

Proper Storage Is Critical

Store your sterling holloware in a tarnish-resistant cloth or a storage chest for silver when you’re not using them. Properly storing your holloware will significantly slow down tarnishing when silver reacts with the air’s sulfur compounds. Ensure each piece is completely dry before storing them to prevent any moisture-related damage.

Handle With Care

Sterling silver is a soft metal, making it susceptible to scratches, dents, and other physical damage. Handle your holloware pieces carefully and avoid stacking or overcrowding them. Soft, padded dividers can prevent scratches and keep your pieces immaculate.

Regular Inspection Is Necessary

Periodically inspect your sterling holloware for any signs of damage, including loose handles or hinges. Early detection can prevent further damage and might save you from costly repairs down the line. Consult a professional silversmith or silver restoration specialist if you’re unsure how to fix a problem.




What Causes Sterling Silver Antiques To Tarnish?

February 26, 2024 1:53 pm
Antiques : Decorative Art : Metals : Silver : Sterling

What Causes Sterling Silver Antiques To Tarnish?

If you own sterling silver antiques, you’ve likely encountered the frustrating experience of your treasures transforming from shiny silver to dull and dark. But what causes sterling silver antiques to tarnish, and, more importantly, what can you do about it? Check out this informative post for more insight.

The Science Behind Tarnishing

The primary culprit of tarnishing is a chemical reaction. When sterling silver encounters the air’s sulfur compounds, silver sulfide forms, appearing as black or dark brown tarnish on the metal’s surface. This reaction can occur at varying speeds, depending on the environmental conditions. Tarnishing due to environmental sulfur is slow, but hydrogen sulfide—which is present in the gases in certain foods—can significantly accelerate the process. In particular, garlic, fruit juices, vinegar, ketchup, salt, butter, and broccoli can cause sterling silver antiques to tarnish due to their sulfur content.

Preventing Sterling Silver Antiques From Tarnishing

Thankfully, you can take steps to prevent and mitigate tarnish on your precious sterling silver antiques, preserving their beauty. First, keep your silver away from air and light. Airtight storage solutions can provide long-term protection.

Furthermore, regular gentle cleaning can remove tarnish before it penetrates the metal too deeply. Avoid harsh chemicals and instead opt for specialized cleaning solutions, polishing cloths, or gentle soaps and water.

You should also limit direct sunlight exposure and avoid placing sterling silver directly on surfaces that might have reactive compounds. For instance, avoid keeping it on wood or in contact with rubber bands, as these can accelerate tarnishing.

Controlling indoor air quality by maintaining moderate humidity levels can also help with tarnish prevention. Consider using air filters and dehumidifiers, especially in storage areas.

Caring for Your Sterling Silver Antiques

Beyond these preventive measures, sterling silver antiques can also benefit from meticulous care. Here are a few steps for ongoing maintenance:

  • Use anti-tarnish cloths: After cleaning them, store your silver antiques in an airtight container with an anti-tarnish cloth. The cloth will absorb any sulfur compounds and prevent the tarnishing process from starting again.
  • Prevent abrasion: Avoid materials or actions that can leave scratches or dents on the surface of your silver, as these can provide more areas for the tarnishing process to occur.
  • Seek professional care: For valuable or delicate antiques, consulting a professional silver restorer for comprehensive care and maintenance advice is wise.

Tarnishing on sterling silver is inevitable, but you can slow down the process and ensure that your antiques remain nice with proper care.

As antique enthusiasts, Nelson and Nelson wants you to enjoy the wonderful world of antiquing. We offer gorgeous pieces such as Tiffany silver trays and flatware. Browse our products today.




5 Things Antique Stores Look for When Buying Silver

February 8, 2024 1:12 pm
Vintage Arts : Decorative Art : Metals : Silver : Coin

Antique stores carefully evaluate various factors when acquiring silver items for their collections. By considering these factors, buyers can curate an exquisite selection of silver treasures that captivate collectors and enthusiasts alike. To understand a buyer’s criteria, review some of the things antique stores look for when buying silver.

Authenticity

To ensure authenticity, antique collectors will examine the piece’s hallmark. A hallmark is a symbol stamped onto silver that identifies the maker, date, origin, and purity. Examining the hallmark can also reveal whether the silver is solid or plated.

Solid silver means the entire piece is pure silver, including its structure and any decorative elements. Buyers highly value solid silver for its purity and intrinsic worth.

On the other hand, plated silver refers to items with a thin layer of silver covering a metal body, such as copper or brass. The base metal provides the structure and support, while the silver coating gives the piece a visually appealing silver appearance.

Condition

The pieces’ condition is another thing antique stores look for when buying silver. Buyers will check the piece’s structural integrity, the surface’s condition, tarnish or any scratches, and repair or damage history. Antique silver in excellent condition or with minimal damage is more valuable than silver with significant damage. However, some buyers may purchase pieces with minor surface irregularities at a reasonable sale price. 

Pattern

The intricate patterns and designs on silver pieces are an essential factor in determining their desirability for collectors and enthusiasts. The most collectible patterns have elaborate designs, making them rare and valuable. Some famous patterns include Chippendale, Charleston, and repoussé.

Rarity

Rarity can mean limited production runs, discontinued patterns, or unique craftsmanship. Rare silverware will fetch a higher sale price due to its unique status. Many antique collectors prefer rare finds, and the uniqueness and exclusivity of an item can cause its price to appreciate over time. Keep in mind that rarity is not enough to warrant a high selling price. The item’s condition still has the biggest influence over its value.

Manufacturer or Maker

Antique shops are always on the lookout for sterling pieces from famous makers. The most desirable makers or manufacturers include Tiffany & Co., Georg Jensen, Gorham, and Reed & Barton. These makers or manufacturers have produced some of the finest silver in history, and their creations continue to captivate collectors.

Do you have antique silver that you want to sell? Nelson & Nelson is a reputable sterling silver buyer based in New York City. Contact us to schedule an appointment to evaluate your antiques. We look forward to hearing from you!




What Is So Special About Sterling Silver Antiques?

February 8, 2024 1:09 pm
Antiques : Decorative Art : Metals : Silver : Sterling

Sterling silver is a precious material renowned for its beauty, durability, and ability to retain value. People have used this material for centuries to craft exquisite objects, and sterling silver antiques remain highly cherished possessions in numerous households. But what is so special about sterling silver antiques? Let’s dive into the allure of sterling silver antiques and examine why they’re in high demand.

Historical Significance

One key feature that makes sterling silver special is its rich historical significance. Throughout history, artisans incorporated silver in many things, such as tableware and currency. Additionally, sterling silver was popular in royal regalia, making it an integral part of many cultures and periods.

For example, the British monarchy showcases sterling silver in various regal adornments. From crowns to badges and medallions, sterling silver created magnificent pieces that symbolize the grandeur and significance of royal ceremonies.

So, owning a piece of antique silver is like owning a piece of history, and many collectors enjoy the stories and symbolism behind these pieces.

Unparalleled Beauty

Sterling silver antiques are also beloved for their unparalleled beauty. The lustrous, shiny finish of sterling silver makes it a perfect choice for decorative items such as candelabras, silverware, and picture frames. The intricate designs and patterns of antique sterling silver are often breathtaking, as skilled artisans who dedicated their lives to honing their art crafted them. Every piece is unique, with its own history and story to tell.

Craftsmanship

Antique silver has excellent craftsmanship. Every piece tells a story of a time when artisans crafted items lovingly by hand, taking great pride in their work. From the delicate engravings to the elaborate designs, each element is unique, making pieces a true testament to the artistic skills of craftsmen.

Durability

Another great quality of sterling silver antiques is their durability. According to the U.S. Geological Survey, sterling silver is an alloy that includes 92.5 percent silver. The material gives it strength and durability that lesser grades of silver lack. These characteristics mean that sterling silver antiques can withstand the test of time without losing their beauty or functionality.

Many families hand down antique sterling silver items for generations, and the pieces continue to retain their charm. People cherish these pieces, recognizing their enduring worth and timeless allure.

Investment Value

Sterling silver antiques are so special because they have significant investment value. As a finite material, sterling silver is becoming increasingly rare, which means that quality antique pieces are becoming more and more valuable with time. Whether you are buying a piece for its historical significance or simply as an investment, sterling silver antiques are a smart choice.

Start your own sterling silver collection and begin exploring the world of these extraordinary antiques. At Nelson and Nelson, we offer gorgeous antique pieces in NYC. Browse our product categories today!




5 Ways Antiquing Has Changed Over the Years

January 10, 2024 3:17 pm
Antiques

Collectors are always searching for rare and valuable pieces to add to their collections, making antiquing a popular hobby for centuries. However, as we enter a new era of technology and changing tastes, the world of antiquing has undergone significant changes. Let’s explore how antiquing has changed over the years.

The Rise of Online Auctions

One of the most major changes is the rise of online auctions. With sites like eBay and Heritage Auctions, collectors can now bid on rare and valuable pieces from the comfort of their homes. This makes it easier for collectors to acquire pieces that were previously difficult to access. Furthermore, potential buyers can connect with sellers from across the globe.

Changing Trends in Vintage Decor

Another way that antiquing has changed over the years is the shifting trends in vintage decor. While certain pieces like mid-century modern furniture remain in high demand, other styles have fallen out of favor. For example, Victorian-era furniture and decor, once highly sought-after, are now more difficult to sell as tastes shift toward more modern designs.

Increase in Authenticity Verification

As the antiquing market grows, the prevalence of counterfeit antiques also increases. An authenticity verification market has emerged to combat this. Buyers pay a premium to ensure the genuineness of the pieces they acquire. Verification services analyze the materials, age, and provenance of the piece.

Environmental and Ethical Concerns

Collectors are increasingly aware of the environmental and ethical concerns of buying and owning antique and vintage items. They now prioritize reducing their carbon footprint by shopping locally and minimizing packaging waste.

Furthermore, ethical sourcing poses a significant concern for antique pieces, especially for items that individuals may have looted or acquired through colonialism or other harmful practices.

More Accessibility for Newcomers

With a variety of resources and communities available, first-time collectors can easily find the information they need to build their own collections. From online forums to local markets and fairs, there are plenty of opportunities to explore. Additionally, many experienced collectors and sellers are happy to offer guidance and advice to newbies.

While antiquing may look different today than centuries ago, one thing remains constant: the joy and thrill of discovering rare and beautiful pieces from the past. If you’re interested in new pieces, Nelson and Nelson offers silver antiques in NYC. Contact us today!