Just Like the Pilgrims
Nov 18th, 2009 by Shari
Now is the time to get out the silverware box and polish up the good utensils for Thanksgiving. That’s another time-consuming task amidst all of the holiday hubbub. It’s enough to make you ditch the formality and eat in the backyard at the picnic table or outdoor dining set, where you can use paper plates and plastic forks, like the pilgrims did. (Su-ure, they did! And afterward, they sat around on their Adirondack chairs and chaise lounges, watching football.)
Anyway, as is the case in many families, your setting may be a cherished heirloom that you save for special occasions. But, while you’re trying to make it sparkle, be careful not to do anything that will accidentally harm it; that’s another thing that happens frequently.
Sterling silver, an alloy of 92.5% silver and 7.5% copper, develops a patina over time, with use and exposure to air. While some people find this attractive, oxidation can also cause unsightly tarnish; but, luckily, it can be polished away – which is what you’re probably doing this week. If so, do not wear rubber gloves while you’re at it, as that could cause serious damage.
Indeed, rubber can corrode silver severely enough to leave deep etchings that can be repaired only by a silversmith, and can even wear away raised designs. So, if you’re gonna wear gloves, make ‘em cotton or plastic; and never use rubber bands on silver utensils, or store them in chests with rubber seals or coverings. Use solid wood boxes that are lined with cloth.
At CedarStore.com, we have magnificent silverware boxes, worthy of your finest silver, that are hand-crafted from cherry and oak, finished in one of six resplendent wood tones, and lined with green or burgundy felt. They also make great gifts, as do any of the jewelry boxes, armoires, jewelry chests, steamer trunks, cedar chests, toy chests, and quilt racks, which you’ll find in our ‘Home Accents’ section.
Now, when it comes to cleaning the silverware after dinner, the best method can depend upon different factors, including the age and type of the silver. However, it seems that most people prefer to do their antique pieces by hand, even when it is perfectly safe to put them into the dishwasher (you know – like the pilgrims did!).
Yours Outdoors,
Kathy
