Antique Silver-Plated Objects

To authenticate an antique silver-plated piece, start by examining the maker's marks struck on the underside: Christofle's characteristic oval cartouche with interlaced initials, the E.P.N.S (Electroplated Nickel Silver) stamp found on British production, or the house marks of French makers such as Ercuis and Ravinet d'Enfert. These stamps often allow you to date a piece to within a decade and establish its provenance with confidence. A crisp, legible mark is always a reassuring sign of quality.

The condition of the silver layer is the single most important factor in determining value. Examine the areas most prone to wear — tray rims, the backs of spoons and forks, teapot handles — and check whether silver-plated trays and serving pieces have been re-plated. Professional re-silvering is perfectly acceptable but should always be disclosed. Favour pieces with their original layer intact, even if gently patinated, over objects that have been over-polished and lost their engraved or chased relief. Art Deco and Belle Époque models with geometric lines or finely chased decoration command the strongest collector interest.

For day-to-day care, clean your pieces regularly with a soft, slightly damp cloth and a product formulated specifically for silverplate — never use abrasives. Store cutlery and objects in anti-tarnish rolls or acid-free tissue to slow oxidation. For silver-plated tea and coffee services, avoid the dishwasher entirely, as the heat and detergents irreversibly damage the deposited layer.

On Antiquités en France, every silver-plated piece is offered by a verified professional antique dealer who can provide detailed photographs, exact dimensions and full provenance information. Prices range from a few euros for a single piece of cutlery to several hundred for a complete signed service by a major house. Browse our selection of antique kitchen and household objects to complete your table, and contact your chosen dealer directly with any questions before purchasing.