SILVER-LUG Blog — アンティーク全般

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 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.

When you hear "British antiques," you probably think of something that is reserved for the aristocracy . The great British antiques developed greatly due to the demand and patronage of the British aristocracy, who flourished in the 19th century. In the early 20th century, the British aristocracy began to decline.

I'm sure many of you have heard the news that the price of gold has been rising over the past few years, but the international price of silver has similarly skyrocketed. I will talk about the relationship between the gold and silver market and the antique market (mainly antique silver).

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).