SILVER
Silverware
Since the Romans, silver has been used to make utensils, but only royalty or the very wealthy could afford it until the end of the nineteenth century. The ability to own and control precious metals has always been the prerogative of nobility and the wealthy merchant classes. In the 18th century, silver eating utensils and serving pieces were popular in Europe and America for those who could afford them. By the end of the 19th century, the United States led the world in manufacturing silverware and purchasing it as well. The knife, fork and spoon are considered the original “cutlery”, however, other containers for cooking or holding food made of silver include: chafing dishes, tea sets, coffee sets and other decorative objects. As time went on, silver became sufficiently inexpensive so much so that lower-middle-class consumers could afford to own it.
Tea Sets Utensils
