Questions & Answers
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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
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Shop for Sterling Silver Decorative Objects on 1stDibs
Monumental Wilhelm Kåge Argenta Vase, Gustavsberg, Sweden, circa 1930
Located in Stockholm, SE
An exceptionally rare and monumental Argenta vase designed by Wilhelm Kåge for Gustavsberg, Sweden, circa 1930. This striking example represents one of the largest and most impressiv...
Category
Vintage 1930s Swedish Art Deco Vases
Materials
Sterling Silver
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
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 Signed 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 & Co.
In sterling silver.
With a robust wooden easel back stand.
Marked to the base.
Simply wonderful Tiffany...
Category
20th Century Picture Frames
Materials
Sterling Silver
Vintage Cartier Engraved Sterling Silver Art Deco Style Picture or Photo Frame
By Cartier
Located in Philadelphia, PA
A fine signed silver picture frame.
By Cartier.
In sterling silver with engraved line decoration.
With a robust easel back stand.
Marked to the base.
Simply a wonderful frame fr...
Category
20th Century Art Deco Picture Frames
Materials
Sterling Silver
Tiffany Modern Sterling Silver Dancing Bear ABC Picture Frame
Located in New York, NY
Modern sterling silver picture frame. Wide and rectangular surround. At top are applied interlaced ABC block letters; dancing bears in bottom corners. With glass, silk lining, and le...
Category
21st Century and Contemporary Spanish Modern Picture Frames
Materials
Sterling Silver
