Take Proper Care of Antique Silverware

Antique dealer and appraiser, Michelle Isserman, specializes in high-end decorative pieces, mainly silver and smalls. Michelle's son, David, fondly remembers leaving for graduate school with a silverware set, compliments of his mother. She first taught him to care for it, so he knows first hand of her silver polishing abilities. Michelle offers her expertise in caring for vintage silverware. Her first rule of thumb is to use the antique silver flatware every day, not just on special occasions.

Washing
Hand washing is quick and easy when done with a soft cloth and mild soap such as Ivory. Wash the silver immediately after use, but don't soak it in water as moisture promotes tarnish. Michelle does not recommend putting vintage silverware into the dishwasher. However, if you decide to use the dishwasher, separate the silver from stainless flatware. Avoid detergent that contains lemon or bleach as it is harsh and may leave pitting in the forks and spoons. The heat of a dishwasher can loosen handles of knives, so it's never a good idea to place silver knives in the dishwasher, even when you're desperate.

Polishing
The more you use your silverware, the less polishing it will need, and that's a good thing. It's evident, of course, that antique silverware will invariably require polishing on occasion. Michelle recommends one of the effective cream products on today's market. Be sure the cream is designed for silver, not brass or copper. Will Hendricks of Weiman Products suggests Wright's Silver Cream for cleaning and removing tarnish. As another alternative, slip your hands into commercial silver polishing gloves and rub tarnish off the silver. Michelle warns against using abrasive compounds such as household cleaners or toothpaste as they can leave visible scratches. Be wary of instant dip and rinse compounds as well.

Buffing
Unless you want your silverware to look brand new, avoid professional buffing on a buffing wheel. Buffing leaves a mirror shine and removes all patina, those fine lines that give silverware character. Most collectors and antique dealers look for a warm, wonderful patina on silver.

Storing
Keep antique silverware away from moisture and acidic surfaces. Manufactured silver cloths containing individual utensil pockets can be used for storage. Silver cloth purchased by the yard will allow you to make your own storage bags. Lined silver chests are another option. Anti-tarnish strips or pieces of chalk placed around sterling silver work well. Avoid binding silver in plastic wrap. It does keep out moisture; however, it leaves terrible marks on the silver. When storing for long periods, be sure to place vintage silverware in an airtight container.

Antique silver flatware is to be enjoyed. When cared for properly, vintage silverware will provide pleasure for many generations.

Sources: Michelle Isserman, Antique Dealer, Interview; March 2010
Will Hendricks, Weiman Products, Interview; March 2010