SILVER-LUG Blog — 英国

Period division is a term used to classify antiques according to the year of manufacture. Britain's eras are named after the king who ruled over them.

Since it greatly reflects the background of the era and the tastes of the king at that time, the style changes with each era.

All British made silver products have a small stamp called a hallmark.
When it comes to pocket watches, the silver cases of British watches are also engraved.

European silver products have hallmarks, stamped with marks to certify purity, etc., and these are said to date back to the Eastern Roman Empire in the 4th century.
The British hallmark system was established by law during the reign of Edward I in the 14th century, and silver products were required to be sterling silver (92.5% purity).

Albert chain is a chain used to wear a pocket watch.

It is named after Prince Albert (1819-1861), husband of Queen Victoria of England (1837-1901).

It was developed not only for the practical purpose of attaching a pocket watch to clothing to prevent it from being dropped, but also as an accessory for British gentlemen to be worn stylishly.

Cutlery is Western tableware such as knives, forks, and spoons used for meals.

In particular, silver cutlery beautifully decorated by silversmiths is a symbol of wealth and is a representative item of antique silver.

There may not be much image of cutlery in England today, but the cutlery industry developed mainly in Sheffield during the industrial revolution that started in the 18th century, and excellent cutlery was manufactured.

In the olden days, British gentlemen kept folding knives in their waistcoat pockets as a necessity, and there are still many folding knives left.