Silver Pieces - The Strange and Peculiar: 2015-12-20

The Story Behind this Blog

Being from the South, Silver is a very big part of my life. It doesn't have anything to do with wealth. Although those with more money - old money, tend to have more of it. New money tend not to spend their money on Silver. They do not have the appreciation for the warmth of the metal, the beauty of the patina, the story it tells of the generations past who have used it. A true southern girl comes of age when she chooses her silver pattern, long before she chooses her mate. If she is smart, she chooses that of her mother, grandmother, or favorite great aunt who in their benevolence will pass their silver on to her. It is the pieces in those sets, the pieces on our tables, along with the pieces we find in the corners of the displays in antique stores that prompted me to start this blog. They are beautiful, they are odd, but what are they, and what in the hell do you do with them?

Friday, December 25, 2015

Gorham Christmas Cross Ornaments

Each year Gorham produces a sterling Christmas ornament in the shape of a cross using the design of one of their patterns. These are lovely. I have two friends who have Christmas trees they decorate only with sterling ornaments, including some of these. Here are some examples of past ornaments.
Happy Holidays!!!!

Melrose (2002)

Rose Tiara (2003)

Chantilly (1998)

Wednesday, December 23, 2015

Gorham Christmas Ornaments

In addition to their flatware and holloware, Gorham has a set of sterling Christmas ornaments. Here are some examples of these.

Old World Santa (3 3/4 inches)

Peace Dove

Wise Men (3 1/4 inches)

Monday, December 21, 2015

Old Charleston by International

International introduced its Old Charleston pattern in 1951. It was designed by Lillian V. M. Helander. In 1952 Helander designed Spring Glory for International.

Two Piece Baby Set

Roast Carving Fork

Cocktail Fork (5 3/4 inches)