This unique piece – created in Latin America – is typical of the style of Sidesaddle stirrups of this time and provenance. However, what makes this item unusual is the fine level of craftsmanship and the superior material in which it has been made- often these stirrups were fashioned in leather or brass. The value...
What Makes The Perfect Pearl? We asked our resident gemologist and instore expert Claire Hall for an insight into the lustrous world of the pearl– just what is it that makes them such special addition to any jewellery collection? Pearls are making a fashionable comeback, and no longer just for the traditional twinset and tweed group....
A seed pearl is generally defined as a small natural pearl, usually measuring less than 2mm in diameter. Although their early definition stated that they must ‘weigh less than quarter of a grain’. Nowadays, seed pearls are often only created accidentally by pearl farmers who are attempting to grow larger cultivated pearls. However, one benefit...
Jardinière is a catch–all term for any vessel, from a bowl to an urn, which can be used for keeping flowers in. The literal French translation means ‘female gardener’ – which implies that these beautiful antique silver jardinière were considered to have an especially feminine form or purpose. The largest versions of jardinières are usually...
The World of Miniature Antiques Here at AC Silver we are fortunate enough to have a wonderful (suitably small) collection of antique miniature collectables of various types and styles. The earliest examples of miniatures date back to Ancient Egypt, around 5000 BC. The pieces discovered there were wooden farm animals and carts; common subjects of...
What are Mabé pearls and why are they so special? Mabé (pronounced Mar-bay) are also known as half-pearls or blister pearls. The name of Mabé pearls comes from the Japanese name of a Winged Oyster variety, which is Mabé gai. Mabé pearls are an incredibly interesting and distinctive pearl type; they possess all of the...
Diamonds are forever, and here at AC Silver we’re reminded of this every day when we come face to face with stunning antique diamonds of all shapes and sizes. Some of the items of jewellery that we are most proud to be able to offer our customers are our antique old cut diamond pieces which are incredibly...
How to Clean a Diamond Ring at Home There are many old wives’ tales regarding the best way to make a diamond sparkle, and how to clean rings in particular. Being worn more frequently than most other items of jewellery, rings tend to attract lots of debris and dust from being worn on the hand....
How Does a 1 Carat Ring Look on the Hand? If you’re searching for the perfect ring whether it’s for an engagement, a special occasion or simply to treat yourself or loved one, let’s talk carat size! It may amaze you what 1 carat rings can look like on the hand – they can be...