What are the initials on British sterling silver?
British Sterling Maker’s Marks The maker’s mark is a series of initials representing the name of the silversmith or company. They are set into a cartouche, usually the same as the other marks, but not always. For example; W & H, for Walker & Hall of Sheffield is set within a flag.
What kind of sterling silver candlesticks do Birks make?
A wonderful pair of Birks Sterling silver 3-arm candleholders which can convert to single candlesticks with the removal of the top section. The underside of the removable top section is stamped “Birks Sterling 84/26 and shows the Birks maker’s marks”.
Who was the silversmith for the Montreal ladle?
An early and important silver large ladle, designed by Robert Cruikshank (1767 – 1809) who worked as a Silversmith in Montreal, after coming from Boston in 1773. He was an important figure in Canadian Indian trade silver work. On the back of the handle are Cruickshank’s initials “RC” and the word “Montreal”.
How are sterling silver hallmarks assayed for quality?
Each item is assayed (tested) for quality, then marked with a series of 4 – 5 symbols, each in a cartouche of the same shape. The shape is used with letters to help date the item. The hallmarks will tell you if the item is sterling silver, what town it was assayed in, the date of assay and the maker’s initials.
What does the control mark on sterling silver mean?
A typical hallmark on silver made in England for either export or sale in England. The control mark, a set of scales, was adopted in 1976. The scales mark certifies the acceptance of a 1976 treaty in which nations agreed to recognize each others hallmarks.
Where does the 925 mark on sterling silver come from?
In fact the vast majority of mass produced silver reproductions today, whether made in Thailand, India, England, Europe or America, now include 925 in the mark. With the 925 standard mark, a piece of silver can virtually be sold world wide with the same mark. The use of 925, however, does not preclude the use of sterling.
What is the standard mark on a sterling silver plate?
The separate standard mark may appear as 925 only or 925 enclosed in a simple shape such as an oval, square or circle. If a piece was made in a foreign country for import into England, it would include a maker’s mark, control mark and standard mark.
Is the lion passant still required on sterling silver?
The standard mark can now be expressed numerically, or millesimally, as 925. The lion passant is no longer required but may be used in addition to the numeric mark. Pieces for sale in England, as well as for export, must also have an English assay mark.
