Designing Sterling Silver Flatware

So we have looked at some of the ways that silversmiths create objects made of silver. And as was noted earlier, there was a time when people would go to a silversmith for any kind of silver object--be it decorative silver jewelry or functional silver flatware. These days, we tend to see these things as separate. Even if you were to buy silver jewelry and silver flatware at the same department store, you would have to go to separate sections to find them

The New York Times recently had an article on a man who does not see any need to make this sort of distinction. Stephen Dweck, a jewelry designer who has created templates for earrings, rings and necklaces, decided to turn his talent to designing sterling silver flatware. His designs for sterling silver flatware have a lot in common with his designs for jewelry. And when you think about it, setting a table does have an element of design to it. So it makes sense that a jewelry designer would design sterling silver flatware.

For the article, the reporter accompanied Dweck on a shopping trip where he picked up some sterling silver flatware designed by others. The designer marveled at vintage sterling silver patterns and complimented them for their artistry. Design really does make a difference. When examining a sterling silver pattern from the 1930s, Dweck observed that the pieces of sterling silver flatware had rather thin handles. But as it turns out, this may help those who want to eat less or have a leisurely meal--according to Dweck, narrow, thin handles on silver flatware mean that people will eat slower. And Dweck found inspiration by checking out silver in a range of stores. They went to Crate & Barrel, Pottery Barn, as well as specialty shops in SoHo.

Just as you can patronize the same place silver objects that are both functional and practical, you can also sell silver to the same place. A silver buyer who buys silver earrings and silver necklaces, will also buy silver flatware and silver coins. They are skilled in testing for the silver content in all kinds of silver objects and will give you cash for silver based on silver content. There is no need to take different kinds of silver objects to different places. You can sell all of your silver to the same silver buyer.