More and more, modern living is turning towards minimalism. People have been influenced by things like Marie Kondo’s hugely successful book and series focussed on tidying up, removing what is no longer needed and keeping on that which sparks joy. Some people have resisted this movement, becoming more ‘maximalist’ than ever, but many appear to have embraced the ethos that less truly is more.
With this mindset, we’re going to look at silverware – something which is typically regarded as being out-dated – and explore how it can be utilised in the modern world.
Candlesticks
Candles are one thing that definitely hasn’t suffered from the movement towards minimalism. There never seems to be enough candles, in fact. Which makes it reasonable that candlesticks have a long life ahead of them yet. Silver candlesticks are a versatile form of silverware, as they match most styles and colours. Although some people may think that candlesticks are large and intrusive, there is in fact an enormous range of styles and sizes to choose from when it comes to candlesticks. If you like a romantic dinner or a luscious bath time, don’t rule candlesticks out of your life.
Coffee Jugs
Coffee makes the world turn, from its processing to its mass popularity, powering a significant percentage of the world on a daily basis. The various paraphernalia surrounding coffee is a huge market, not likely to be thrown out or cast aside any time soon. Coffee jugs, therefore, are highly valued items. People are all too frequently keen to unload silverware that they inherit before finding out anything about its value. Antique silver coffee jugs, for example, are brilliant pieces of silverware that are not only still sought after, but still useful today. If you are lucky enough to have an antique silver coffee jug, you have something very special that is certain to spark joy.
Canteens
Cutlery is definitely going nowhere. Since humans have started using cutlery rather than tearing at food with their teeth, the genetic bone structure of the human skull has evolved to accommodate it. Antique canteens of silver cutlery are the kind of heirloom that tends to be passed down through generations, making it quite a personal thing to either purchase or receive. Beyond that, canteens are something that have a practical use. You can choose to save them for special occasions like Christmas and Easter – which would make sense since they usually serve 6+ people – or you can use them every day.
Photo Frames
The pieces of antique silverware that are most likely to stick around are the ones that still have use to us, which makes sense. Photograph frames are an excellent example of something useful that is also a beautiful piece of decoration in and of itself. It shows how innately human it is to want to keep photographs of loved ones close by. Whether you inherit silver photo frames or go out of your way to buy them, they are a worthwhile investment that can not only appreciate in value over time, but also act as the beginning of a family heirloom
Recognised Brands
Anyone looking to invest in silverware as means to garner a nest egg for the future should do what they can to look for recognised creators. Brand names like Tiffany & Co. are essentially guaranteed to appreciate in monetary value provided the condition of the piece is good enough. There are also makers like Mappin & Webb, Paul Storr, Elkington & Co. Ltd and many others that are well-known among collectors. The hallmarks of these makers can add to the cost of a piece, which can in turn become a well-priced collection of silverware that will fetch a pretty penny one day.
Silverware is easily dismissed, but it is certainly a mistake to do so. Living in the modern world, silverware can be a wonderful connection to a simpler time. Its looks and style frequently transcend its age, making it flattering and contemporary-feeling. If you have recently come into some silver, really consider what it could do for you before you make a decision over whether or not to keep it.
It’s true that many people look to get rid of older items or want to buy in new stuff. I love holding on to older items or ones that have been passed down the family line and using them in some way — loved reading this post!
So glad you enjoyed the post!