Flatware Buying Tips

Composition

Sterling Silver

Traditionally used in formal dining, sterling silverware can also be used every day to transform any meal into a special occasion. Composed of more than 90% silver, this valuable flatware is beautiful.

Pros... it's absolutely beautiful and impressive

Cons... it's hard to keep that shine without hours of polishing

Stainless Steel

Stainless steel flatware is far and beyond the most popular choice. It is composed of a variety of iron alloys. The common designations 18/10, 18/8 and 18/0 refer to the percentages of chrome and nickel in the alloy. The first number refers to the percentage of chrome, added for durability and greater resistance to corrosion. The second number refers to the percentage of nickel, used to give flatware a soft sheen similar to silver. So, when stainless steel flatware is referred to as 18/10, it has 18% chrome and 10% nickel. Hard-wearing and luminous, this is considered the highest quality stainless steel, followed by 18/8 and 18/0.

Pros... It's easy to care for. If of good quality, it will be tarnish free and
beautiful for many years. Choose your pattern and the number of
settings carefully. If you purchase a high quality set like Lenox or
Yamazaki you will have this set for many years to come.

Cons... I can't think of one.

Construction

It all in how it feels when you hold it. In a good piece of flatware the weight will feel comfortable and well balanced.

Hollow handled

Made in three distinct pieces, hollow handled flatware offers excellent balance and a lightweight feel.

Stamped

These handles are produced when a pattern is stamped onto a single piece of metal.

Forged

This flatware is heated then struck to produce simple, clean patterns. Similar to stamped handled flatware, forged pieces are comprised of one piece and have a heavier feel.