Silverware: The Magnificent Art of Crafting Silver

christofle silverware

Silverware: The Magnificent Art of Crafting Silver

 

Silver is one of the most fitting and precious metal in the whole world, especially for the creation of artistic or decorative objects, thanks to its tenderness and peculiar shininess.

Silverware for Your Home

From jewels to fine silverware for your home, silver is an extremely fine and pure metal, that has always been used (of course, except some bullions coins or ingots) in several alloys.

Since it is very ductile and malleable, it has also been used, combined with other metals, making it more resistant and durable.

Some of these elements are copper, nickel, palladium or even steel, since they make silver more resistant, perfect for the creation of unique and priceless handicrafts.

christofle fidelio flatware silver plated
  • Christofle

    Christofle Fidelio 36 pcs Silver Plated Cutlery Set

    2.460,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    The refined and highly polished Christofle 36 pieces.
    A 36-piece silver plated flatware set in the Fidelio pattern made for 6 guests and comes with a storage chest.
    Contains 6 of each of the following:
    dinner fork, dinner knife, tablespoon, after dinner teaspoon, dessert fork and dessert knife.

  • Malmaison

    Christofle Malmaison Silver Plated Individual Bread Plate

    275,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    The Malmaison Silver Plated individual round side dish with its strictly geometric palm leaf border will complement any elegant table setting.
    Material: Silver Plated
    Dimensions: Ø 13 cm read more...

    Included in the collection in 1967, Malmaison is the Christofle Empire model. The “Château de Malmaison” near Paris was the favorite residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Josephine. The palm and lotus leaf frieze and the symmetry of the decoration are typical of the Empire style, which was largely inspired by Antiquity. This is one of Christofle’s most complete lines, the only one that includes a caviar service.
  • Christofle

    Christofle Marly 24 pcs Sterling Silver Cutlery Set

    9.400,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    Christofle Marly 24 pieces sterling silver flatware set made for 6 guests with a storage chest. Christofle sterling silver 24-piece set contains:

    • 6 dinner forks
    • 6 dinner knives
    • 6  table spoons
    • 6 after dinner tea spoons
    • 1 storage chest for 24 pieces
  • Christofle

    Christofle Vertigo Silver Plated Bottle/Carafe Coaster

    290,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    Christofle Vertigo silver plated Coaster. Gift box included.

    The silver plated Coaster in the Vertigo pattern is designed to hold wine and water bottles as well as carafes and protect the table from condensation rings. The Vertigo asymmetrical ring shaped handle playfully enriches the side of the refined and polished round base.
    Dimensions: Ø: 15 cm

Silverware as a Fine Art

buccellati italian sterling silver

Silverware is described as the fine art of crafting silver, a mastery which can be applied through many different techniques: hammering, chiselling, printing, blanking, fusion, electroplating, dressing, etc..

Usually, furnishings are worked by mould casing or by high pressure moulding.

Otherwise, tableware requires various craft ship processing steps, starting from a single silver plate, which later will be cut, moulded, welded, hammered and at last chiselled.

  • Malmaison

    Christofle Malmaison Silver Plated Sugar Bowl with Lid

    1.150,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    The Malmaison Silver Plated Sugar Bowl, with its palmette bordures and lotus blossom crowning the lid, adds refinement and elegance to any beverage service. Pairs well with the Creamer Pitcher, Coffeepot and Teapot.

    Material: Silver Plated
    Dimensions: 0.350 l

  • Christofle

    Christofle Vertigo Silver Plated Mail Tray 25 x 14 cm

    400,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    Christofle silver plated Mail Tray with the asymmetrical, thick Vertigo style handles proves that modern and playful elegance are not relegated to the dining room or kitchen only. The dazzling effect provided by the mirror polished rectangular base and the refined Christofle signature is in joyful contrast with the bold sensual curves of the rings which spruce up office habitats and make a great gift for endless occasions.
    Length x width : 25 cm x 14 cm

  • Malmaison

    Christofle Malmaison Silver Plated Salt and Pepper Shakers

    385,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    The highly polished curvy silhouettes of the Malmaison Silver Plated salt and pepper shakers are delicately bordered by palm tip engraved friezes.
    Material: Silver Plated
    Dimensions: Height 7 cm read more...

    Included in the collection in 1967, Malmaison is the Christofle Empire model. The “Château de Malmaison” near Paris was the favorite residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Josephine. The palm and lotus leaf frieze and the symmetry of the decoration are typical of the Empire style, which was largely inspired by Antiquity. This is one of Christofle’s most complete lines, the only one that includes a caviar service.
  • Malmaison

    Christofle Malmaison Silver Plated Fish Knife

    75,00

    Previous lowest price was 75,00.

    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    The Christofle Malmaison Silver Plated Fish Knife will be perfect to serve different types of fish and to surprise your guests with its elegant design. Gift box included.

    Material: Silver Plated
    Length: 20,0 cm

Silverware and Silver Alloys

The act n. 251 of 22nd May 1999 has set the thousandths, which are allowed for silver crafting in Italy. The allowed titles are 800% and 925%. Some higher titles are allowed, but not lower ones.

The brand is also very important, when you distinguish a title in silverware. In fact, 800 and 95 titles need to be closed in an oval shapes logo, preceded by the percentage, and followed by the same title (for example, 925%Ag).

If the directions on the product are different, it could simply mean that the object has been bathed in silver, like in a galvanic bath. But, in this case, the object cannot be defined as silver or silverware.

christofle flatware silver plated

Silverware Typologies

There are many different names, revolving around silver and silver crafting, such as:

1. Nickel Silver – it is also known as ‘German Silver’. It is an alloy of copper (50%-60%), zinc (15%-30%) and nickel (15%-30%). Its look can resemble silver, but its value is basically none.

2. Bilaminate – In this case, the objects crafted with bilaminate presents a very thin (almost imperceptible) silver foil, on the external surface. Some of the frames that are nowadays sold in the market are crafted with this very mediocre technique.

3. Sheffield – This is a very peculiar method, which was invented in 1742 by Sheffield. It is a very antique process which has been replaced by the introduction of electroplating. This method consists in the enclosing of a copper foil between two thin silver foils.

buccellati doge collection
  • Buccellati

    Buccellati Doge Bowl Lapis Lazuli Jasper

    46.500,00

    Doge Bowl.

    Bowl in silver set with lapis. Centerpiece in red jasper and lapis. Dimensions: 42 x 33 cm – height 13

  • Malmaison

    Christofle Malmaison Set of Two Silver Plated Knife Rests

    155,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    The pair of Malmaison Silver Plated Knife Rests are decorated with a sophisticated filigree palmette border, a refined solution to prevent staining your table linens.
    Material: Silver Plated
    Dimensions: Length 5.7 cm. read more...

    Included in the collection in 1967, Malmaison is the Christofle Empire model. The “Château de Malmaison” near Paris was the favorite residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Josephine. The palm and lotus leaf frieze and the symmetry of the decoration are typical of the Empire style, which was largely inspired by Antiquity. This is one of Christofle’s most complete lines, the only one that includes a caviar service.
  • Malmaison

    Christofle Malmaison Silver Plated Bottle Ring

    145,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    The Malmaison Silver Plated bottle ring slips over the bottleneck to catch with its detailed frieze of delicate palms any errant drops or spills.
    Material: Silver Plated
    Dimensions: Ø: 4.4 cm read more...

    Included in the collection in 1967, Malmaison is the Christofle Empire model. The “Château de Malmaison” near Paris was the favorite residence of Napoleon Bonaparte and Empress Josephine. The palm and lotus leaf frieze and the symmetry of the decoration are typical of the Empire style, which was largely inspired by Antiquity. This is one of Christofle’s most complete lines, the only one that includes a caviar service.
  • Christofle

    Christofle Vertigo Silver Plated Ice Tongs

    200,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    Christofle Vertigo silver plated Ice Tongs. Gift box included.

    The Vertigo silver plated Ice Tongs feature an extremely slender silhouette enriched by the playful Vertigo asymmetric ring and its enchanting thickness. An ideal gift for oenophiles adding refinement to any bar service.

4. Silver-plated – An Affordable Silverware for Everyone

Silver-plated is a category that is referred to all those handicrafts created in non-noble alloys or in metal alloys, then covered in silver, no matter which technique it has been used to achieve them.

They have an extremely thin layer of silver  usually measured in microns that entirely cover all the base metal, that can be copper, brass, white metal, or nickel.

Each of these precious items, whether it will be a silver plated tray or some utensil for your kitchen, can add an element of interest to your dining room surprising your dear guests.

christofle graffiti large tray

Silver-plated Stylish Home Accents

The exquisite creations with silver-plated coating can create a stylish atmosphere adding the right design accents to your home ambiance.

Every item is unique and demonstrates the best artisanship of the world’s luxury brands of silverware.

For example, a silver-plated photo frame like Christofle Malmaison or Christofle Madison can beautifully embrace all of your significant memories and be that home accessory that embellish your home and cheer your beloved ones.

A Christofle 4-ring candleholder will add as well a stylish but cosy atmosphere to any of your room, reflecting the light in its mirrored silver-plated surface.

buccellati boscoreale vase olive branches

Sterling silver is an alloy, which is made mainly from pure silver and the small addition of other metals, commonly copper. This is a term used to determine the common silver 925.

On each sterling silver item, you can find a special round hallmark as a proof of the quality and authenticity of silver.

Sterling silver is a special mixture, crafted mainly by 92,5% silver, while the remaining 7,5% are made of copper combined to other metals such as aluminium and zinc)., so 925 parts on 1000.

Sterling silver is more durable and resistible material in comparison with pure silver and won’t run out of time.

5. Sterling – a Supreme Quality Silverware

christofle cutlery perles 36 pieces

Sterling Silverware Table Accessories

Sterling Silverware consists not only from silverware cutlery but it contains as well various utensils and table accessories for your dining routine.

The Sterling Silver Raspini bottle coaster with daisies or an Oval Stand Bowl with richly decorated elements from Schiavon have remarkably lively and intense lustre that highlight their astonishing beauty.

One of these exquisite table essentials handcrafted in sterling silver will help you to complete the look of your table setting, enhancing dining room with their stylish look.

raspini silver coaster daisies

Silverware: How to Value its Quality

There are many different methods to use, in order to verify and determine the silver quality of furnishings, cutlery and decorations.

The simplest one is the codes’ verification, which is usually stamped above, but in this case, you should always remember that the Italian minimum standard, set by law for the silver alloys, is 800 thousandths.

You could also determine the superior quality of any silver object by simply hitting it gently with a finger. Silver, in order to be a quality product, needs to provoke a clear and sharp sound for at least 1-2 seconds.

The sound will almost resemble a bell’s tingling, but if it sounds different, it will mean that a different material has been used.

christofle malmaison sugar bowl

Special Silver Properties

You should also take into account that silver is completely odourless. In fact, this material has some particular antiseptic properties. So, that means that it should not have any scent. If the object has a sharp and poignant smell, that will mean that the percentage of copper in the manufacture is too high.

The last property of silver is its attractive capacity. Silver, just like gold, is not magnetic. If you would move a magnet close to the silver object, the object should not be attracted. If the contrary would happen, this would mean that the object would be made of steel, with a simple foil of silver.

Best Silverware Luxury Brands

Offering something special for your table setting like centrepieces or flatware, each of this luxury brands create an outstanding silverware that can easily complement your overall tablescape.

Buccellati famed for handmaking the finest sterling silver items since the 18th century, continues to handcraft in small workshops with the best skilled artisans in Italy.

Most of Buccellati Silverware creations take their inspiration from Renaissance patterns.

The most beautiful and refined Buccellati silverware is made in silver 925, like a wonderful Achantus Leave 20cm silver 925 Buccellati, a traditional centrepiece with classic styling crafted by the most experienced artisans or one of the beautiful flowers like Daisy or Poppy.

Each of these elements represent a perfect silverware gift idea for a special occasion for your special person.

buccellati milano daisy real 925 sterling silver italian design

Christofle is a manufacturer of fine silverware and accessories for home based in France. It was founded in 1830, when Charles Christofle started to governate a jewelry workshop that belonged to the family of his wife.

Nowadays, Christofle stands as a symbol of luxury and elegance, since it has always stood out as one of the best manufacturers of silver handcrafts. Among its creations you can find silver picture frames, flatware, jewellery and dining essentials.

The quality of their crafted silverware is supreme thanks to its peculiar silver crafting methods.

They are some products with a highly refined design, where a classic style blends with a contemporary taste for an artistic aesthetic.

christofle flatware set l ame
  • Albi

    Christofle Albi Silver Plated Charger Presentation Plate

    500,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    Material: Silver Plated
    Dimensions: Ø 30 cm

    Albi Silver Plated charger presentation plate features delicate grooves along the outer rim.
    A remarkable Christofle Maison piece to give existing dinner services a new look by offering a simple yet very elegant frame.
    A special feature of Christofle’s “Albi” presentation plate is its centre which has a finely grooved circular border.
    This has a practical purpose in that it prevents the plates placed on it from slipping and from scratching the silver.

  • Malmaison

    Christofle Malmaison Silver Plated Caviar Serving Set

    1.070,00

    The two-piece Malmaison Silver Plated caviar serving set contains an outer presentation dish, bordered by an empire style frieze and enriched by two stylized eagle handles, and a crystal caviar container elegantly nested on a bed of ice so as to serve the caviar at the right temperature. The lid of the crystal bowl is crowned by an elaborate lotus blossom.
    Material: Silver Plated
    Dimensions: Ø 17 cm

  • Malmaison

    Christofle Malmaison Silver Plated Ice Cream Bowl

    350,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    The Malmaison Silver Plated Ice Cream Bowl with pedestal base and palm and lotus frieze along the rim is a welcoming dazzling addition to the dessert course.
    Material: Silver Plated
    Dimensions: Ø 10,1 cm Height 8,9 cm.

  • Christofle

    Christofle Vertigo Silver Plated Personal Lidded Butter Dish

    295,00
    Use the coupon code: CHRISTGIFT

    Christofle Vertigo silver plated personal Butter Dish with gift box.

    Vertigo silver plated personal Butter Dish will adorn any elegant table setting with its dainty glass dish crowned by the iconic asymmetrical and thick Vertigo ring joyfully askew on the mirror polished silver plated bell shaped lid. Delight your dinner guests with this French touch of Christofle style and playful reflections.
    Height: 8 cm

Within the Christofle Silverware, you can find various gift sets suitable for each occasion and every taste.

Whether you are going to make an important wedding present with a complete flatware gift set like Christofle Albi Silver Plated Cutlery Set or you decide for Christofle Malmaison Gift Set with six cake forks and one cake server for a birthday, each of these items will delight the person that will receive one of this precious gifts. The clear and elegant forms will be able to enchant absolutely everyone.

The elegantly wrapping gift box with Christofle ribbon will complement the whole silverware idea gift.

christofle flatware storage chest
christofle mood flatware egg container

Christofle Mood is one of the most stylish and unique silverware inventions. Designed in 2015, this silver-plated egg-shaped container metamorphoses the simple concept of the flatware making it become a highest art. Its mirrored storage has a smooth surface that perfectly reflects the light, transforming every table setting to a luxury dining ceremony.

Christofle Mood is available in silver plated version or a precious rose gold version, both containing 24 pieces flatware nested in a walnut wooden disk, perfect for six persons table setting. And for all the coffee lovers there is an unusual egg container with six espresso spoons inside in classic silver plated version or with 18 kt rose gold coating that is Christofle Mood Precious Set 6 espresso spoons.

Christofle Mood can become a perfect gift for all design enthusiasts that will fully appreciate its uniqueness and extraordinary appeal.

Hermes Silverware is a perfect blend of elegance and iconic luxury, a timeless artisanship and supreme quality.

Hermes Silverware is represented by a contemporary flatware collection Attelage, available as well in stainless steel or with a gold plated coating. Simple but elegant, this cutlery collection has an original shape inspired by the hook of a harness buckle, that is a particular detail used in carriage-driving. So, each handle looks like a stirrup, while the rest part of the items of the this silverware collection is quite plain and stylish.

This Hermès Silverware collection with its modern design will complement any table setting and become a perfect match with all the existing Hermès Dinerware Sets.

hermes attelage silver plated

Versace, a well-known Italian brand in collaboration with Rosenthal created an astonishing collection of luxury silverware with a name Versace Medusa Cutlery Silver Plated.

The iconic head of Medusa combined to the Greek key pattern that decorates every single item of this collection adds a special luxurious atmosphere to your table.

This silverware collection has all parts lavishly silver plated and will perfectly match with any of Rosenthal Versace Dinnerware Collections.

This incredible flatware collection has everything to satisfy your everyday needs from decorated spoons, and knives to forks and other utensils, bringing in such a way many flair accents to your dining moments.

versace cutlery medusa silver plated

The Versace Medusa Cutlery has beautifully organised gift sets for one person these are 4 or 5 piece place setting gift sets and 24 or 30 pieces gift sets for 6 persons completed with everything to set a table and enjoy time with your beloved ones.

versace medusa cutlery silver plated set

Any question about Silverware?

If you have any special requests or require further information about Luxury Silverware, Scopelliti 1887 staff will be pleased to assist and advise you.

Call us or send WhatsApp on +39 391 345 6441 or send an email at shop@scopelliti1887.com  and let us know what we can help you with.