Tis the (Summer) Season

As much as the weather is trying its hardest to prove us otherwise we are, believe it or not, in the midst of British summertime! And with the arrival of summer comes the season of celebratory social events, graduations, christenings and of course, weddings. For some reason at this time of year my diary goes into overdrive. Not that I’m complaining of course (poor little miss popular...!) but it does seem that the few free weekends become an endless search, trawling the shops for the perfect gift to commemorate such occasions.

Graduation’s and Christening’s will be dealt with later, instead I'll head straight for the potential minefield that can be wedding gifts. Of course nowadays its common for couples to create a gift registry, which although this can be a great assistance its important to remember that these items are merely suggestions, and it is not mandatory to take the list as gospel.

Traditionally wedding presents are supposed to provide the bride and groom with essential items in order for them to build their life together. But with so many couples cohabiting before marriage the traditional toasters, microwaves and plates can be somewhat unnecessary. So can I suggest a venture outside the box (and off the list...) to choose something original that the couple can enjoy.

Silver is the perfect example of gift that not only will add a classic decorative piece to the home, it is a commodity likely to hold its value and stand the test of time, making it a fantastic investment for the happy couple. I've put together a few ideas below, which will hopefully start the inspiration cogs whirring! Every item in the AC Silver inventory can be gift wrapped and we offer a speedy, efficient delivery service, free of charge. Sorted. A few simple clicks and... Abracadabra, your free weekends become exactly that! All you need to remember is the confetti!


W2725: A Pair of Antique George III English Sterling Silver Cast Candlesticks W4092: An Antique George III English Sterling Silver Salver W3998: An Antique Victorian English Sterling Silver Boudoir Clock W4324: A Pair of Antique Edward VIII English Sterling Silver and Pear Wood Coasters
W4233: A Pair of Boxed Antique Victorian English Sterling Silver Napkin Rings

Crests vs Coats

Being in the antique silver business, we regularly come across fine silver pieces engraved with crests and elaborate coats of arms. And, although we always try our upmost to identify the origins of the individual crest I feel it’s time to get to know a little bit about the background of heraldry itself.

So, here goes, first things first… Crests vs. Coats?

The heraldry profession that encompasses both crests and coats of arms originated in the middle ages when those that participated in combat were required to wear certain images or symbols to distinguish themselves whilst their faces were hidden by helmets.

Over the years the two terms have begun to be used interchangeably to mean the same thing, however, the two concepts though related are quite different. The coat of arms refers to the entire heraldic achievement whereas the crest refers to just a single component. A coat of arms generally includes a shield as a battle reference and several accessory elements including a crest, a motto, a coronet, a helm and supporters, as shown above in the crest of William Wales.

Unlike a crest which can be transferred throughout different generations and branches of the same family the coat of arms belongs to the individual and is considered legal property to be passed from father to son. Don’t worry, wives and daughters sometimes get a look in, but generally their coats of arms only portray their relation to the original bearer. As women were not involved in battle their coat of arms would not bear a shield and alternatively would be shown on a lozenge, an oval or a cartouche.

A coat of arms can include a short phrase, known as an armorial motto intended to inspire or describe the motivation of the person or corporation. Motto's usually feature on a scroll underneath the shield and can be in any language, though usually Latin or the bearers native tongue.

The crest is a key accessory to the full heraldic achievement, positioned above the helm when included in the full coat of arms. It is typical for pieces of antique silver to only feature the crest as the full coat of arms was reserved for larger, elaborate ceremonial items. In this instance, when the crest is not accompanied by a coat of arms it is likely to be shown above a twisted band (shown to the right), a coronet or a cap. Family crests usually include animals or human figures shown bearing weapons, as symbols of bravery and strength.

So where does that leave us today? In modern society heraldic symbols are still a display of both national and personal heritages. However, unlike its origins heraldry is no longer used as an expression of aristocracy, rather as a tool to create and reinforce an identity for nations, their subdivisions and institutions such as churches, universities and schools.

Phew. Admittedly it’s a lot to take in! But if all this has inspired you to research your own family crest allow me to recommend My Family Silver, which has a comprehensive selection of crests and allows you to search for pieces from the AC Silver inventory bearing the crest associated with your family.

Par for the course

As the weather warms up and the nights draw out (Hurrah!) we are, at long last, finally able to get out and enjoy the English countryside in all its glory! One of the nation’s favourite outdoor pursuits is golf and as the warmer weather rolls in we can expect fairways to fill up with players channelling their inner Lee Westwood, chasing that elusive hole in one.

With over 7500 golf courses in the UK it has definitely become a national pastime and although not a golfer myself it’s easy to see the appeal- especially in the summer months! A gentle country stroll, with the chance of decent tan? Sign me up! OK, OK so I might not be quite up to speed on the technicalities of golf but what’s not to love about a sport that includes Eagles, Birdies and Bogeys?

Whether you play casually as a hobby or as serious competitor every golfer knows that regardless of your handicap it’s vital to look the part, right down to the accessories. At AC Silver we have an intriguing selection of fine golfing related silver and jewellery pieces, ideal either as gift items, presentation pieces or to add to your personal collection.

Although previously seen as a gentleman’s sport we have an impressive range of pieces for men, women and the home.


See you on the fairway!


W3278: An Antique Victorian English Sterling Silver Gong with Golfing Interest
W1822: An Edwardian English Sterling Silver Golf Toast/Letter Rack W3777: A Fine Vintage Diamond and 18 Carat Yellow Gold Tie Pin in the form of a Golf Club
W3215: A Modern Pave Diamond, Emerald and Black Onyx, 18 Carat White Gold 'Golfer' Brooch

W2554: An Unusual Antique Edwardian English Sterling Silver Cigar Case with Golfing Interest

With this ring...

Weddings seem to be word on everyone’s lips at the moment, whether they are the fairy tale nuptials of our future monarch and his beautiful bride, or the anticipation of the looming wedding season, the nation seems to have been swept away in the excitement and romance of it all!

Of course, the moment an engagement is announced thoughts immediately turn to the engagement ring, it is after all the symbol of the acceptance of the proposal (and hopefully a bit of sparkle..!). But what about the ring that symbolises the actual betrothal? In the excitement that surrounds the venue, the flowers, the dress, the importance placed on the actual wedding band can fall into insignificance.

Although it has become more common in the 21st century for both partners to wear a wedding band, traditionally they were only worn by the woman on the fourth finger of her left hand. Obviously in choosing a piece of jewellery that you will wear for the rest of your life there are many considerations to be taken, especially for you girls.

The style of the engagement ring is a key element in choosing a wedding band, as this affects whether the two rings will sit comfortably next to each other. With the popularity of more elaborate gemstone designs for the engagement ring, many women are opting for a curved or shaped wedding band which will sit snugly alongside it. Similarly, the metal used in the engagement ring is likely to dictate the type of metal that is chosen for the wedding band. Generally titanium, platinum, white or yellow gold are popular choices, dependent upon their durability over time.

At AC Silver we always endeavour to cater to our customers most specific needs, and we are extremely proud of the bespoke wedding band service we are able to provide. We believe that one of the most special days of your life should be celebrated with a piece of jewellery that you will cherish forever and we are on hand to help you achieve this.

For further advice or a ring consultation pop into our store in Jesmond, where we will be happy to discuss your requirements, alternatively enquiries can be made via telephone on 0191 2402645 or via email to enquiries@acsilver.co.uk.