SILVER-LUG Blog

In the UK, there is a system called a "Royal Warrant" that is awarded to companies and organisations that provide goods or services to the British Royal Family.
Japan also had a system of purveyors to the Imperial Household and the Imperial Household Agency, but these were abolished in 1954.

It is a system that has existed since the 15th century and is still in place today, and when researching British antiques you will often see the term "Royal Warrant".
In this article, we will explain the contents of the British Royal Warrant, its history, and representative manufacturers.

Antique silver cutlery is not only a tool for dining, but also a reflection of the craftsmanship and food culture of the era in which it was made.
In this article, we will focus on handle patterns on antique cutlery, explaining their history and characteristics, from basic British patterns to decorative designs, and even patterns found in countries other than the UK, such as France and the US.

Wedgwood's "Jasperware" is one of the most popular Western ceramics in Japan.
Teacups and vases with elegant white relief on a pale blue background are truly synonymous with Wedgwood.
In this article, we will provide a clear explanation of the history of its creation, its characteristics, how it is made, and the secret behind its ever-attracting appeal.

Antique metal crafts feature a wide variety of intricate and beautiful decorative techniques that are sure to catch your eye.
One of these, "Guilloché Enamel," is a decorative technique that combines the precise "guilloché engraving" on metal with vitreous "enamel decoration."

In this article, we will explain the characteristics, manufacturing process, and appeal of "Guilloche enamel."

Yard o' Red is a British writing instrument brand that is still in production today, famous for its artisan-made pure silver pencils.
Although it is a slightly unusual name, it is deeply engraved with the origins of the brand and the passion that our craftsmen have for their writing instruments.

In this article, we will explain the history of Yard O' Red and the features of its products.

Some antique items contain materials whose use or import is restricted under current law.
One such regulation is an international treaty called the "CITES," which has made it very difficult to import antiques made from ivory, tortoiseshell, etc.
In this article, we will explain the contents of the Washington Convention and the materials that are prohibited there.

There are many watch brands in the world, but among them there are brands that are known as the "World's Three Great Luxury Watches."
"Patek Philippe", "Audemars Piguet" and "Vacheron Constantin" are three brands that are the object of admiration for watch enthusiasts.
When you hear "luxury watches," many people may think of Rolex. Although Rolex is world-famous, for some reason it is not included in the world's top three luxury watch brands.

There are various decorative techniques used in antique silverware, including one called "niello inlay."
"Niello" is a Latin word meaning "black," and it is a decorative technique that creates a beautiful contrast between silver and black.
In this article, we will explain in detail about "Niello inlay," including its appeal, techniques, and history.

British silver products have a small mark called a "hallmark" stamped on them.
Between 1867 and 1998, when silverware made outside the UK was imported for sale in the UK, a separate mark, called an "import mark", was added to distinguish it from silverware made in the UK.
This article will explain in detail about "import marks".

When you think of afternoon tea, you probably think of Britain. The custom of having afternoon tea became very popular during the reign of Queen Victoria in the 19th century, and many items were created for use during the occasion. The tableware used for tea and coffee, such as for afternoon tea, is called a "tea set." Here we will introduce some representative antique tea set items, focusing on silver products.