Antique and collectible history

About Silversmiths Garrard & Co

About Silversmiths Garrard & Co

The luxury brand Garrard & Co. Limited, formerly Asprey & Garrard Ltd., is  headquartered at Albemarle Street in Mayfair, London. Garrard was the first official Crown Jeweller charged with the upkeep of the British Crown Jewels, from 1843 to 2007. Garrard & Co. created and cared for many tiaras and jewels adorning members of the British royal family we see today. Some of the world’s most famous sporting trophies were created by Garrard’s team of superb jewellers. These include the Americas Cup and the ICC Cricket World Cup Trophy.
Read more
About Mappin & Webb Antiques And Illustrated Timeline

About Mappin & Webb Antiques And Illustrated Timeline

In 1860 one of Jonathan Mappin's great-grandsons, John Mappin, started his own firm which was named Mappin & Company.

Two years later the firm became known as Mappin, Webb & Co. when John Mappin was joined by his brother-in-law George Webb. 

The first Mappin & Webb store opened in 1860 at the prestigious address of 77-78 Oxford Street, London.

The company expanded internationally and received royal commissions from all over the world. The monarchs were so impressed by the excellence of the goods produced royal warrants followed. The name of this enterprise became synonymous with excellence and symbolizing the best of British. 

Read more
Extremely rare sterling silver musical Kigu powder box

Extremely rare sterling silver musical Kigu powder box

A couple of years ago I was 'speaking' by email to David Kiashek, who is a descendant of the founder of the world famous Kigu vanities. He told me when Kigu made the solid silver musical powder boxes they only made between 12 - 18 of each model. Which means they were rare when they were first produced. 

Read more
How to date your vintage Stratton powder compact.

How to date your vintage Stratton powder compact.

Eleanor & I made a video for people who wished to date their vintage Stratton powder compacts. In 1997 the Company that made the Stratton powder compacts was sold & they ceased to be British made. Many collectors like only to collect antique or vintage powder compacts & so it is essential that we can date our purchases. Today Stratton compacts are still being made but they are not vintage compacts & there is a lot of confusion about what is & is not a vintage Stratton.

Read more
112 results