Questions & Answers
Our trusted network of 1stDibs sellers answer common questions
Why is sterling silver called sterling?
1 Answer
Opinions differ as to why sterling silver is called sterling. Some scholars believe that the name comes from the term Easterlings, referring to coin makers who relocated from Germany to England in the 12th century. Others say that sterling is a derivation of Starling, the name of the one-penny silver coin in circulation in 1300 when King Edward I issued a decree that all silver articles were to be at least 92.5% pure silver. On 1stDibs, find a diverse assortment of sterling silver jewelry, tableware and decorative objects.
1stDibs ExpertSeptember 27, 2024
Related Questions
- Why is sterling silver so cheap?1 Answer
- What is sterling silver made of?1 Answer
- How do I identify sterling silver?1 Answer
- What is bad for sterling silver?1 Answer
- What is antique sterling silver?1 Answer
Shop for Sterling Silver Decorative Objects on 1stDibs
Wilhelm Kåge Argenta Bowl with Silver Fish Relief, Gustavsberg, Sweden 1930's
Located in Stockholm, SE
A striking Art Deco ceramic bowl designed by Wilhelm Kåge for Gustavsberg, Sweden, circa 1930s. This exceptional example from the celebrated Argenta series features a rich, mottled e...
Category
Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Decorative Bowls
Materials
Sterling Silver
Silver Cased Compensated Weather Barometer Superb Royal Provenance Alfred Clark
Located in Dublin, Ireland
This is a very Rare and Superbly made Sterling Silver Cased Compensated Weather Barometer – The Silver Assay Marks inform us that it was made in 1900 by the famed Silversmith, Alfred...
Category
Antique Late 19th Century British Victorian Scientific Instruments
Materials
Sterling Silver
Tiffany & Co. Art Deco Sterling Silver Picture Frame
Located in South Bend, IN
A gorgeous vintage Art Deco sterling silver picture frame
By Tiffany & Co. (signed to the back)
USA, Circa Mid-20th Century
Measures: 5"W x 3.75"D x 7"H.
Good original vintage co...
Category
Mid-20th Century American Arts and Crafts Picture Frames
Materials
Sterling Silver
Antique English Novelty Walnut Sterling Silver Box - 1899 by Sampson Mordan
Located in Bath, GB
The box is modelled in the form of a Walnut beautifully crafted to be expected by this venerable silversmith.
The box is hinged in full working order and retaining it's lavishly gil...
Category
Antique 1890s British Late Victorian Decorative Boxes
Materials
Sterling Silver
Vintage Tiffany & Co. Sterling Silver Mid-Century Picture or Photo Frame
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine vintage signed silver picture or photo frame.
By Tiffany.
In sterling silver.
With a robust easel back stand.
Marked to the base.
Simply an wonderful frame from Tiffany! ...
Category
20th Century Mid-Century Modern Picture Frames
Materials
Sterling Silver
Table Box Octagonal 925 Silver and semi-precious tiger's eye stone Salimbeni
Located in Firenze, FI
Octagonal table box in semi-precious tiger's eye stone with a hinged 925/1000 sterling silver hull. The interior of the lid is in black Belgian marble. Dimensions: 11.4 x 18.4 x 4 c...
Category
Vintage 1970s Italian Art Deco Cigar Boxes and Humidors
Materials
Belgian Black Marble, Sterling Silver, Enamel
