Dinnerware

What is gauge and what does it determine?

Gauge is a measure of thickness of the steel as a raw material and is expressed in metric measurement, generally from 1 millimeter or 4 millimeters or more. Since a higher gauge indicates a greater thickness flatware pieces with a higher gauge tend to be more expensive. It is important to remember that individual pieces in a place setting may have different gauges, so keep in mind, when comparing items in the same set, that a dinner fork should have a higher gauge than a salad fork.

Why pay more for sterling silver?

While the cost of sterling silver flatware may be intimidating, since individual pieces can be as much as some stainless steel sets, the benefits often offset the high cost! Benefits of sterling silver include, more intricate and unique designs, varied selection of utensils like aspargus tongs, and its value as a collectors item or as an heirloom.

How do I care for my flatware?

Stainless Steel:

Wash thoroughly prior to first use. Stainless steel is dishwasher safe, but hand washing with a mild detergent is recommended. Do not let your flatware soak, even in plain water, or remain unwashed overnight. Dry immediately with a soft cloth to avoid spotting and pitting. Make sure stainless steel is completely dry before storing. Do not wrap in rubber bands, plastic, newspaper, or any high sulphur material. Easily remove any rust from your stainless steel with a moist sponge and any good cleanser.

Sterling Silver:

After each use promptly wash, or at least rinse, sterling in hot water. Do not leave sterling soaking, as it can permanently damage the metal. Sterling is dishwasher safe, but hand washing with a mild detergent is recommended. Polish your sterling once or twice a year, whether it has been used regularly or not. Make sure sterling is completely dry before storing. Do not wrap in rubber bands, plastic, newspaper, or any high sulphur material. Daily use is encouraged as an integral part of silver care; a beautiful patina cannot form without it.

How do you arrange a formal flatware place setting?

If you're hosting a formal dinner party that requires a few extra utensils at each place setting you may not be sure which fork or spoon goes where. A general rule of thumb is that the placement of utensils follows the menu. If you are to have salad before the main course, then the salad fork would be placed to the left of the dinner fork, a soup spoon would be placed to the outside of a dinner knife which is to the right of the dinner plate.

What is the difference between 18/8 stainless steel and 18/10 stainless steel?

18/10 and 18/8 is a reference to the percentage of chrome and nickel contained in the stainless steel alloy. The "18" refers to the chrome content, which gives your stainless steel flatware its strength. The "8" or "10" refers to the flatware's nickel content, which gives the flatware its magnificent shine and rust resistance. 18/10 stainless steel has the highest nickel content found in flatware and is considered the highest quality stainless steel. 18/10 is the premium alloy, this grade is to stainless as sterling is to silver. Some less expensive alloys contain no nickel. These alloys are susceptible to rusting if left in contact with water for extended periods of time.

Stainless steel means it will never stain, right?

Wrong. It simply means it will stain less than other steels and certainly less than other metals such as silver, bronze, aluminum, etc. Stainless steel is today's best metal for flatware but can stain if subjected to adverse conditions.