Cutlery Care

Because we do not consider that our responsibility stops when you take possession of your cutlery, we have produced a leaflet on cutlery care which we include with every order. The key considerations are outlined below:

PATINA
The characteristic patina of antique silver which gives it much of its aesthetic appeal, arises from the multitude of very fine random scratches that develop through use over a long period of time. The same minor scratches will, with use, form on new silver and, although on a new surface they may be more conspicuous, they should not be a matter for concern.

TARNISH
Silver, like gold, is a noble metal and therefore resistant to atmosphere corrosion. It will, however, slowly tarnish in an atmosphere that contains sulphides as, in our modern society, is generally the case. A superficial layer of silver sulphide will form, initially light gold in colour but, over a long period of time, darkening. This can easily be removed by polishing with a proprietary silver cleaner but avoid using the liquid variety as they can attack the steel knife blades. Cleaners designed for other metals should also be avoided as they contain abrasives.

WASHING
Foods can contain sulphides (e.g. eggs) and also a complex mixture of salts and acids. These, if left to dry on the cutlery, can attack both the silver and the steel blades. It is best therefore to wash the cutlery after the meal rather than leaving it to stand overnight.

The cutlery is designed to withstand the high temperatures of a dishwasher but you may want to avoid any scratching which might result from bundling pieces together therein. In this case, hand washing might be preferable. Whichever you use, it is best not to let the cutlery dry by standing as this can result in water stains.

The knife blades are made from a Sheffield steel specially selected for its hardness to produce a fine cutting edge. In developing such steels, however, the corrosion resistance is inevitably lowered which means that prolonged continuous contact with water can result in pitting of the blades surface.

STORAGE
Storing your cutlery, either in a fabric-lined canteen box or in a fabric cutlery roll will reduce tarnish by protecting it from the atmosphere and prevent scratches arising from pieces rattling against each other.

FOR THE FUTURE
Our silver cutlery will last through your lifetime and on through your children's lifetime as well. As time passes you may like to add to it building up a 6-piece to an 8 or 12 piece setting. You may also want to add the elegant serving pieces designed for different dishes. All our patterns are traditional patterns selected because they have a proven appeal established over generations. It is this which gives us the confidence to assure you that whichever pattern you choose, you will have no difficulty adding to it in the future.