19th century

Industrial Revolution and Mass Production
One of the most important changes in the 19th century was the Industrial Revolution, which brought about significant advances in manufacturing. This period marked the beginning of mass production, with silver objects becoming more widely accessible. Prior to this, silverware had been produced mainly by skilled artisans working individually, but with the rise of factories and mechanized processes, silver objects could be produced more efficiently and in greater quantities. While this allowed for lower prices and wider access, it also led to concerns about the loss of traditional craftsmanship.

Despite the rise of mass production, many silversmiths continued to produce high-quality handmade items. In England, renowned silversmiths like Paul Storr, whose work was particularly popular in the early part of the century, became famous for their exquisite craftsmanship. His designs, often associated with neoclassical and Regency styles, exemplified the refinement and elegance of the period.

Silverware and Fashion
In the 19th century, silverware was not just functional but also a display of social standing and sophistication. The use of silver for dining ware, including tea sets, candlesticks, flatware, and serving trays, was a key part of the social rituals that defined the period, particularly among the upper classes. Silver tea sets, in particular, became a fashionable and prestigious item, often custom-designed with intricate engravings or adorned with decorative motifs. These objects were commonly passed down through generations and became family heirlooms, valued both for their material worth and their sentimental value.

The Victorian era, in particular, saw a flourishing of ornate and highly decorative designs in silver objects. Influenced by the Gothic Revival and Rococo Revival styles, silversmiths used elaborate patterns, florals, and filigree work to embellish silver items. The Victorian love of symbolism also found expression in silver, with motifs like flowers, animals, and heraldic symbols appearing on items like jewelry, candlesticks, and boxes. This period’s aesthetic was characterized by an interest in nature, romance, and nostalgia, which was reflected in the silversmiths' creations.

Silver in Jewelry
Silver also played a prominent role in the jewelry of the 19th century, particularly in the form of brooches, rings, and necklaces. During the Victorian era, silver jewelry was often worn for both practical and sentimental purposes. Mourning jewelry, for example, became popular after the death of Queen Victoria’s husband, Prince Albert, in 1861. These pieces often featured symbolic motifs such as locks of hair, cameos, and enamel work and were worn as a way of expressing grief and remembrance.

The Arts and Crafts Movement, which gained popularity in the late 19th century, rejected industrial mass production and emphasized handmade artistry. Jewelry designers like Charles Robert Ashbee and other members of the movement turned to silver for their creations, producing more organic, nature-inspired designs that emphasized simplicity, craftsmanship, and beauty over elaborate ornamentation.