Sterling Silver

Sterling Silver is a high-end luxury alloy used in premium flatware and holloware. By international standard, it contains 92.5% pure silver and 7.5% other metals (usually copper) to increase hardness and durability, as pure silver is too soft for functional use.

Often marked with the number “925” or a Lion Passant hallmark, sterling silver is prized for its warm luster, antimicrobial properties, and its status as a timeless family heirloom.

• Luster: Unlike the cool, blue tint of Stainless Steel, sterling silver has a deep, warm, and soft glow that improves with age (patina).
• Weight: It feels significantly heavier and more substantial in the hand compared to steel or silver-plated items.
• Value: As a precious metal, sterling silver retains intrinsic value and can be polished back to its original brilliance indefinitely.
• Antibacterial: Silver has natural oligodynamic properties that inhibit the growth of bacteria, a feature valued in dining for centuries.

Because silver is a precious commodity, reputable manufacturers use “Hallmarks” (official stamps):

• 925: The most common modern mark indicating 92.5% purity.
• Lion Passant: The historical British hallmark for sterling silver.
• Maker's Mark: A unique stamp identifying the silversmith or brand (e.g., Christofle or Tiffany & Co.).

• Daily Use: The best way to prevent tarnish is to use your silver regularly. Constant handling and washing keep it bright.
• Hand Washing: Highly recommended. Dishwashers can cause “pitting” and the high heat can loosen knife handles.
• Tarnish Removal: Use specialized silver creams or polishing cloths. Never use abrasive toothpastes.
• Storage: Store in “Silver Cloth” bags or chests lined with anti-tarnish fabric to prevent oxidation from sulfur in the air.

• Christofle (France) - The pinnacle of French silversmithing.
• Georg Jensen (Denmark) - Famous for organic, modernist silver designs.
• Tiffany & Co. (USA) - Defined the American standard for sterling silver in the 19th century.
• Puiforcat (France) - Renowned for elite, artistic silver craftsmanship.