Know the Different Types of Antique Silverware Used for Dining

The growth of silverware for the dining table took place in the early 18th century. From soup tureens to sauceboats, there were different types of silverware items that had been used for dining in the 17th and 18th Century. Here we have discussed a few different types of antique silverware used for dining.

Antique Russian Silver Enamel Spoon

The gorgeous and awesome silver and enamel spoons are developed by Feodor Ruckert. These spoons were originally part of sets and had been broken up into their individual components over the years.

Russian Silver enamel spoons from Russian silver antique store in New York exhibit rounded style knops and the spoons were turned face side down when the table was set. This is because the detail work was on the back of the bowl so that guests would see the gorgeous workmanship when they sat down for dinner.

Tureens

Tureens are the extremely popular items to have on the dining table during the 18th Century. They were heavily ornamented and used as the centerpiece for the table. They come with a classic oval, rounded form, gadroon decorated borders and a grand domed cover supported by four cast volute scrolling feet. Some of these items even have an engraved coat of arms.

Sauceboats

Sauceboats were another dominant item at the dining table and were oval shaped with a single lip and one handle. They have round base followed through on to various items of silver from jugs to teapots.

Salvers

Salvers during the 18th century were circular, square or rectangular. Salvers were raised on a central foot or three or four supports. Some of these items have cut card work on the base and around the foot. This makes these pieces more desirable and attractive.

Talk to your Russian antique dealers in New York to find the best antique silverware that were used for dining in the 18th century.

3 Notable Qualities of a Successful Antique Dealer

If antique collection is your hobby, chances are finding a reliable antique dealer in your area is pretty important to you. The number of antique stores around the country has been increasing day after day, which makes it hard for the customer to pinpoint the right person who offers a good experience for Shoppers. When you are looking for Russian antique dealers in New York, make note of the following three qualities:

Great experience

An antique dealer will be successful by earning experience. Established and reputable antique dealers will have several years of experience in collecting the most authentic antique pieces from the right source. So if you are looking to buy a valuable antique, always look for the person who has experience and knowledge in the same.

Customized service:

If you are interested in buying a certain type of antique, a dealer would be highly committed to help you with that. Customer service is of prime importance to them, and they will do whatever it takes to offer you a pleasant experience. Search for dealers who will offer customized service to fulfill your requirement.

Availability of specialty collections:

Recognized antique dealers will make it a point to collect specialty pieces.  They search and procure valuable and unique items such as jewelry, fine art work, music boxes and more that are offered to their customers. They will also be heavily interested in collecting rarities provided by sellers.

Having good knowledge of the market and experience in antique business will set a successful antique dealer apart from the crowd. Start researching your area and find the best store offering great Inventory of Russian silver antiques in New York at the best rates.

Useful Tips for Purchasing Antique Items

Buying antiques can be a challenging task, especially for a novice collector. The following are some of the questions that cross any rookie shopper’s head,

• Is this antique an original or reproduction?

• Is it over 100 years old?

• What are the best antiques to buy?

Here we have listed some useful tips that help you make the wisest decision on purchasing the right antiques.

Perform Your Homework

No matter what type of antique material you are shopping for, understanding the quality and price of the antique is essential. Don’t be afraid to ask the dealer questions regarding the item’s history. Dealers are the best resource you have in finding out more about the item and are always happy to educate novice Russian silver antiques collectors in New York.

Buy What You Love

Buy antique items that that appeals to you! What’s the point of having an antique in your home that doesn’t hold your interest or you don’t have a passion for? So, only buy antiques that you love, and you will never be disappointed with your purchase.

Handle the Item

Before investing your money into a rare piece, take your time to investigate the item. Pick the item, look underneath it, check for cracks or damages, study the back and sides and feel the touch to uncover any signs of damage or repair. Inquire about the condition of the item with the dealer even if the item appears to be in mint condition.

Find a Reliable Dealer

While choosing a dealer for your business, find out how long they have been in the business. Only the reliable Russian antique dealers in New York help you to find a quality item and justify the money you pay.

How to Clean and Care for Russian Silver Antiques

Russian silver antiques in New York are the very precious and beautiful collectibles that can add a touch of elegance to any space. These beautiful collectibles also tarnish, scratch and stain easily since they are very soft and fragile. Many avid antique collectors find it difficult to clean their antiques due to the fear of damaging them.  

Many Russian antique dealers in New York stress on regular and gentle dusting rather than infrequent, over-zealous cleaning. 'Harring' with your breath and rubbing with a clean cloth is sufficient if the item is too tarnished. This action can remove dust and minor marks such as light fingerprints. For better results, you can also use a clean, cotton cloth or feather duster.

Invest in specialized cleaning cloths specifically designed for cleaning antiques and storage bags to protect your treasured item and reduce tarnishing.

Cleaning Antique Silver Flatware

Using silver flatware regularly shows less tarnish, and they develop ‘patina’ slowly. This patina is known only to enhance the beauty of the antique piece. If you are using antique flatware regularly, be sure to clean them right after the usage especially after contact with any acidic or corrosive foods.

Also, make sure that you don’t soak antique silver flatware overnight because extended immersion can damage the metal. Wash flatware using hot water and clean crevices with the use of an old toothbrush for better results. Also, avoid putting stainless steel and silver antiques in the same basket because the direct contact between these materials can cause severe damage to the silver antiques. Use a soft cotton cloth to dry the flatware and avoid spotting on the pieces.Now, put these tips to good use when cleaning your antique silver flatware bought from Russian silver antique store in New York to achieve the desired results.