Question 1

Why do silver water pitchers have an ice guard?

Accepted Answer

The small lip or strainer inside the spout — an ice guard — holds back ice cubes when pouring. It is a distinctly American feature, popular from the mid-19th century onward.

Question 2

How heavy should a sterling water pitcher be?

Accepted Answer

Quality pitchers use substantial silver, typically 20 to 40 troy ounces depending on size. Heavier gauge means better resistance to dents; we list the weight of every pitcher we sell.

Question 3

How should I care for antique silver?

Accepted Answer

Wash by hand in warm water with mild soap, dry immediately with a soft cloth, and polish sparingly with a gentle silver cream. Store pieces in tarnish-resistant cloth away from rubber and wool. Avoid dishwashers and harsh dips, which can strip patina and damage fine chasing.

Question 4

How can I tell sterling silver from silverplate?

Accepted Answer

Sterling is 92.5% pure silver and is usually marked "Sterling," "925" or with national hallmarks such as the English lion passant. Silverplate is a thin silver layer over base metal and is often marked "EP," "EPNS" or "Quadruple Plate." Every piece we offer is inspected and authenticated by Steve and his staff before purchase, then examined and described accurately before it is listed.

Question 5

Can I make an offer, and what is your return policy?

Accepted Answer

Yes — most available pieces have a Make an Offer button, and every offer is reviewed by the gallery. Shipping within the US is complimentary, and you may return a piece for a full refund within 14 days of delivery, by mail or in person at the gallery.

Water Pitchers

Collector's Guide: Water Pitchers

From the Journal

#CD929Tiffany Japonesque Mixed Metal & Mokum Dragonfly Water Pitcher

#CD465Cartier Traditional American Sterling Silver Water Pitcher

#CD377Classic Georg Jensen Danish Modern Sterling Silver Water Pitcher

#CC810Antique Gorham Victorian Water Pitcher with Floral Repousse 1887

#CC589Antique Gorham Victorian Classical Sterling Silver Water Pitcher 1887

#CC712Antique Tiffany Victorian Classical Sterling Silver Water Pitcher

#CC644Gorgeous Shiebler American Art Nouveau Sterling Silver Water Pitcher

#CC400Tiffany American Art Deco Sterling Silver Water Pitcher

#CC393Antique Whiting Japonesque Craftsman Hand Hammered Water Pitcher

#CC360Italian Retro Deco Sterling Silver Water Pitcher

#BZ911Elkington Victorian Classical Sterling Silver Bulldog Water Pitcher

#BX926Antique Tiffany Victorian Classical Sterling Silver Water Pitcher

#BX673Antique American Edwardian Classical Sterling Silver Water Pitcher

#BX106American Classical Cut-Glass Water Pitcher with Big-Game Horn Handle

#BX005Antique Tiffany Edwardian Classical Sterling Silver Water Pitcher