A History Of The Reed & Barton Cross

Posted: July 19 2017; Updated: October 22 2024 in Gifts, Ornaments, Traditions
Tagged: 2024 Christmas Ornaments, 2018 Christmas Ornaments, 2018 Reed and Barton Cross, 2018 Reed Cross, 2019 Reed Barton Cross, 2019 Sterling Cross, Christmas Decoration, Cross Decoration, Cross Ornament, Reed & Barton Cross, Tree Decoration

For over half a century, the Reed & Barton Christmas Cross has captured the hearts of collectors and holiday enthusiasts alike. Much like cherished holiday recipes or time-honored gift-giving traditions, the return of this ornament each year brings warmth and nostalgia. It's more than just a pretty addition to holiday decor, it's a cherished tradition. Unwrapping them triggers memories, especially for those passed down through generations, turning decoration into a delightful ritual.

The Origin of Christmas Ornaments

The tradition of decorating Christmas trees as we know it today can be traced back to 16th-century Germany. Legend has it that Martin Luther, the Protestant reformer, first adorned a tree with candles. Initially adorned with baked goods and homemade trinkets, these trees evolved with the introduction of reusable decorations by German immigrants. By the late 1800s, Christmas trees had become popular in America. With the invention of Christmas tree lights in 1880, craftsmen began using materials that enhanced the twinkling effect, with silver quickly becoming a favorite.

By the 1970s, silver ornaments had gained popularity, known for their durability and reflective beauty. This timeless material perfectly complements the rich green boughs and twinkling lights of a Christmas tree, making it a favorite choice for generations.

The Legacy of Reed & Barton

Reed & Barton has been synonymous with exceptional design and craftsmanship since its inception in 1824. The company has an illustrious history, producing everything from sterling silver flatware and goblets to trays and tea sets. During the Civil War, they manufactured weapons. Before World War II, they crafted 87 pieces for the USS Arizona - items that are now displayed at the Arizona Capitol Museum. These pieces, adorned with intricate carvings, celebrate the history and natural beauty of the state.

The company also played significant roles in major events; they produced medals for the 1996 Summer Olympics and redesigned the Davis Cup in 1998. Despite its illustrious reputation, the company took its time launching a website, finally doing so in 1999 on its 175th anniversary.

The Reed & Barton Christmas Cross

The Reed & Barton Christmas Cross made its debut in 1971. It draws inspiration from Romanesque latticework found in Winchester Cathedral, England. Each year brings a fresh design, alternating between the Latin cross and the Greek cross with its equal-length arms.

Some versions feature intricate cutouts and budded tips, while others maintain an understated elegance that captivates with its simplicity. The craftsmanship is evident in the shine and clarity of the silver coupled with graceful carvings.

Each year, the cross embraces an elegant shine and exquisite carvings, and this year’s Annual 54th Edition is no exception. This cross comes packaged with a velvet-lined box, a protective pouch, and a red ribbon for hanging, making it a perfect gift or collectible. Plus, the year and company name are embossed on the back, with options for custom engraving.

Why the Reed & Barton Cross Matters

Whether you're a collector, looking for a meaningful gift, or valuing it as a symbol of personal faith, the Reed & Barton silver cross remains a timeless piece of elegance and tradition. This cross has become more than just an ornament; it's a testament to generations of craftsmanship, creativity, and holiday spirit. Don't miss your chance to own a piece of this cherished tradition - get yours today from Silver Superstore!

Top 5 Annual Christmas Ornaments for 2024

Posted April 10 2024 in American Made, Christmas, Engraving, Gifts, Holidays, Ornaments, Sterling Silver, Traditions
Tagged: 2024 christmas ornaments, 2024 ornaments, annual christmas ornaments, Christmas Ornaments

Christmas is right around the corner, which means many families are keeping with tradition and collecting the latest annual edition of their favorite ornaments. No matter what 2024 brought you, these annual Christmas ornaments are a fantastic way to commemorate the year and add to your own personal collection that you’re excited to unbox each coming Christmas. So whether you have a new addition to the family, reached a major milestone, or simply want to keep growing your ornament collection, continue reading below as we highlight the top annual Christmas ornaments you can find here at Silver Superstore.

2024 Reed and Barton Christmas Bell (40th Edition)

Celebrate the spirit of the holidays and a legacy of unparalleled craftsmanship with the 2024 Christmas Bell Sterling Silver 40th Edition by Reed & Barton. Handcrafted in the USA, this fine sterling silver bell marks the 40th anniversary of this beloved series and commemorates Reed & Barton’s bicentennial with an exclusive “200th Anniversary, Reed & Barton 1824” engraving. A symbol of holiday elegance and storied heritage, it comes nestled in a luxurious red velvet box with a protective pouch, perfect for adorning your home or gifting to someone special.

The bell also offers the option for custom engraving, making it a highly personal keepsake. This exquisite ornament isn’t just a piece of decor; it’s a beacon of tradition and cherished memories, designed to be treasured and passed down through generations.

2024 Wallace Sleigh Bell (30th Edition)

Mark thirty years of cherished holiday memories with the 2024 Sterling Silver Sleigh Bell, 30th Edition from Wallace. This year’s edition captivates with its detailed log cabin and playful snowmen motifs, alongside the proudly displayed year “2024” expertly embossed on its radiant surface. Handcrafted in fine sterling silver, this bell weighs approximately 72 grams and carries the mark of quality with a “Sterling” stamp.

Presented in a soft pouch within an elegant gift box, and accompanied by both red and white ribbons for festive hanging, this sleigh bell is not just an ornament but a potential heirloom. It promises to bring the warm glow of holiday tradition into your home, becoming a treasured reminder of the season’s joy and spirit for years to come. 

2024 Towel Sterling Silver Cross (32nd Edition)

The Towle 2024 Annual Cross Sterling Ornament ushers in its 32nd edition with distinction, featuring an exquisite Fleur-de-lis design that elegantly spans both the front and back. Meticulously handcrafted by seasoned American silversmiths, this ornament is a masterpiece of .925 sterling silver, reflecting a legacy of impeccable craftsmanship. Each ornament is presented in a Towle signature gift box, complete with a protective pouch and a decorative ribbon, making it display-ready or the perfect present. For a unique touch, consider adding customizable engraving, transforming this piece into a treasured heirloom. Bearing the year 2024 at its foundation, this sterling silver cross transcends mere decoration, becoming a historical emblem that enriches your festive celebrations.

2024 Baby’s First Christmas Ornament by Empire Silver

Celebrate the wonder of new beginnings with the 2024 Baby’s First Christmas, Bear on Moon Ornament by Empire Silver, a sterling silver masterpiece. This heirloom-quality piece commemorates a child’s inaugural holiday season with an enchanting bear-on-moon motif, featuring space on the back for custom engraving. Each ornament is elegantly packaged in an Empire gift box, accompanied by a protective pouch and a ribbon for easy display on your Christmas tree. An included brochure offers a heartfelt snapshot of the ornament’s creation and celebrates the year 2024, making this a perfect gift for Christmas, birthdays, or baby showers, and a timeless keepsake for families welcoming a new addition.

2024 Gorham Snowflake (55th Edition)

Lastly, immerse yourself in the holiday spirit with the 2024 Gorham Snowflake Ornament, celebrating the 55th year of a cherished tradition. This American-made, sterling silver masterpiece showcases exceptional craftsmanship with its unique, double-sided design. Ready to enhance your festive decor, it comes with a choice of a red or white ribbon for hanging. Each ornament is presented with a certificate of authenticity and housed in a beautiful gift box, making it an ideal heirloom gift.

For a personalized touch, add an engraved hang tag. This timeless piece, discreetly dated, captures the essence of Christmas, allowing you to create lasting memories and celebrate the season’s beauty.

Best Deals from the Silver Superstore Annual Ornament Sale

Posted: January 17 2024 in American Made, Christmas, Engraving, Gifts, Holidays, Ornaments, Sterling Silver, Traditions
Tagged: 2023 Discount Ornaments, Annual Ornament Sale, Discounted Ornaments, Ornament Sale, Ornaments, Ornaments for Sale

The holiday season may have just ended, but now is the perfect time to take advantage of Silver Superstore’s massive ornament sale to help you prepare for next year. Right now on our website, you can find most of the incredible, intricately crafted, and high-quality ornaments at a reduced price. Go ahead and take a look for yourself, and take a look below as we highlight some of our favorite ornaments included in the sale.

Lismore Bell

The 2023 Lismore Bell ornament is a true showstopper, so don’t pass up your opportunity to take home this fabulous ornament at a discounted price. If you didn’t take home the 2023 edition of the bell at Christmas time, make sure to complete your purchase now so you can add this piece to your growing collection.

21k Gold Paper Star

The 21kt Gold Paper Star by Orrefors Crystal is a limited edition of the brand’s annual crystal Christmas ornament–and you can currently get it on sale at Silver Superstore. Designed in the shape of a paper origami star, this fine crystal ornament is a true delight that dazzles and glistens in the light. The ornament itself is not dated, though it comes with a tag engraved with 2023 that can be detached if you wish.

2023 Gorham Snowflake

If you thought you missed your chance to get your hands on the coveted annual Gorham Snowflake, you’ll be happy to learn that you can now purchase this incredible ornament at a discounted price–nearly 50% off!

This is an ornament that has been released each year since 1970, so there is a ton of tradition and history built into each new edition. Purchase the 2023 version of the snowflake now to get your collection up-to-date before the next holiday season.

Sterling Plain Bell by Reed and Barton

A classic non-dated ornament, the Sterling Plain Bell by Reed and Barton is a cherished keepsake for many. Included in our annual ornament sale, this ornament is handcrafted by skilled silversmiths and will help you bring in the Christmas cheer year after year.

2023 Wonders of Christmas

Available at more than 50% off, the 2023 Wonders of Christmas is the 14th edition of this ornament collection. Though this is technically considered an annual ornament, the engraved “2023” is understated and on the back of the ornament, so it won’t feel out of place on next year’s tree.

The latest version of this ornament features a gorgeous holly and berry wreath design in red, green, gold, and white. Of course, the star of the show is the Cardinal bird in a brilliant red hue, with the entire ornament plated in gold. You can even add a gold tag to customize the ornament with a personalized message.

2023 Gold Tree, Deer and Pinecone Gift Set

The 2023 Gold Tree, Deer and Pinecone Gift Set by Georg Jensen are some other noteworthy ornaments that are currently on sale at Silver Superstore. This gift set evokes images of a quaint winter wonderland, with charming silhouettes that anyone would love to add to their tree next year.

The ornaments in this set are made from stainless steel and plated in 18kt gold. Plus, each ornament in this set comes with two ribbon choices–a traditional green or vibrant red so you can choose to adorn them to your liking.

How the Classic Wallace Candy Canes Have Evolved Throughout the Years

Posted: December 20, 2023 in American Made, Christmas, Decorations, Gifts
Tagged: 2019 Wallace Candy Cane, 2020 wallace candy cane, 2021 wallace candy cane, 2022 wallace candy cane, 2023 wallace candy cane, Candy Cane Ornament, wallace annual candy cane ornament, wallace candy cane ornament, wallace candy cane ornaments, wallace candy canes, wallace silversmiths

The Wallace candy cane ornament was originally introduced in 1981, with the brand releasing yearly editions of the treasured ornament over the past four decades. The ornaments in this series are recognizable for their gold-plated or sterling silver candy cane-shaped base and enamel design which changes each year. The history and tradition behind the Wallace candy cane ornament make it an incredible item for collectors to look forward to every holiday season.

If you take a look down memory lane at how the Wallace Candy Cane ornaments have evolved over the years, you’ll recognize that each new year brings about a new and charming design featuring seasonal motifs and unique details. However, the brand’s dedication to thoughtful design and craftsmanship always shines through in each new design, as you will see below.

In this post, we’ll highlight the six most recent Wallace Candy Cane ornaments so you can see how their designs evolve and change over the years.

2024 Candy Cane

Starting with the latest edition, the 44th Wallace candy cane ornament in plated gold features gold snowflakes intricately placed over the deep blue enameled background. Stamped on the back with the date, this ornament can be the newest addition to your collection or a beautiful gift to a loved one.

2023 Candy Cane

The 43rd Wallace candy cane ornament in plated gold features red and green swirl ornaments in alternating colors intricately placed over the swirled red and green enameled background. Stamped on the back with the date.

2021 Candy Cane

The charming 2021 Wallace candy cane ornament is one to remember, with small candy cane motifs set over a white enameled background with green enameled stripes. This is the 41st edition in the series, and just like all other editions, comes with a red ribbon for hanging and the year engraved on the back.

2019 Candy Cane

The 2019 Wallace candy cane ornament has a playful twist, easily recognizable by its Santa head pattern spanning the entire length of the candy cane. This charming ornament has a gorgeous green enameled background and alternating red and white enameled stripes throughout. Arriving in a gift box and velvet pouch, this is a must-have collector’s item from the Wallace candy cane ornament series.

2023 Christmas Bells to Celebrate the Holiday Season

Posted: October 12, 2023 in Christmas, Decorations, Gifts, Holidays, Lifestyle, Ornaments, Sterling Silver, Traditions
Tagged: Annual Bell, Bell, Bell Ornaments, Christmas Bells, Christmas Decorations, Christmas Ornaments, christmas silver, Holiday Bell

As we prepare for the upcoming holiday season, one timeless tradition that never loses its charm is decorating the Christmas tree. There’s no better way to elevate your tree’s beauty and elegance than with the glimmering allure of silver bells. Continue reading below as we highlight the top 2023 silver Christmas bells that you can find here at Silver Superstore.

Wallace Sterling 2023 Sleigh Bell

The Wallace Sterling 2023 Sleigh Bell marks the brand’s 29th edition, making it a beloved Christmas staple for decades now. This year’s bell design features charming gingerbread men and Christmas trees wrapped around the center with an embossed “2023” in the center. These bells are handcrafted in fine sterling silver, so these stunning pieces of craftsmanship can make a wonderful addition to your collection.

2023 Sterling Silver Bell by Reed & Barton

The 2023 Reed & Barton Sterling Christmas Bell is the 39th edition by the brand. Since 1985, the yearly collection of the sterling silver bell from Reed & Barton has been a staple in homes across the country. Each of the bells is beautifully handcrafted in the United States by skilled silversmiths.

This bell has become a part of a cherished tradition for many, and the featured engraved message of “Christmas 2023” celebrates another year of Christmas cheer for anyone who brings this fabulous bell home. Like some of the other bells on this list, you can include a custom-engraved message on the back if you plan on gifting the bell to a special someone.

2023 Lenox Jingle Bell

The 2023 Jingle Bell from Lenox features a classic jingle bell design with a prominent detailed bow on top. Engraved simply with “2023”, this fine detail is a special touch to add to your collection, and the nickel plating of the bell offers a brilliant shine that will not tarnish. All in all, the tinkle of the Lenox 2023 Jingle Bell from your Christmas tree this year will get you right in the holiday spirit.

2023 Wallace Grande Baroque Bell

The 2023 Wallace Grande Baroque Bell is ornate and unique and is the 28th edition of the brand. Adding this charming bell to your Christmas tree this year will add a touch of beauty and class with its durable silver plate finish. Engraved with “Christmas 2023”, you can also add your own custom engraving to the backside if you want to gift this bell to someone special or add a meaningful message for yourself.

Taking a closer look at the finer details of this bell, you’ll find a cheerful elf surrounded by snowflakes in the heart-shaped detail atop the bell. From the minute you take this Christmas bell home, you’ll be counting down the days until the holiday season officially begins and you can place it on full display.

The Best Non-Dated Ornaments for Timeless Christmas Decorating

Posted: October 2, 2023 in Christmas, Decorations, Ornaments, Sterling Silver, Traditions
Tagged: Christmas Ornaments, christmas tree ornaments, crystal ornaments, non dated ornaments, silver bell ornaments, silver bells

The leaves are just starting to fall, but that doesn’t mean you have to put off any thoughts of Christmas decorating until December. At Silver Superstore, we have an amazing collection of Non-Dated Ornaments for you to choose from. Although we have plenty of annually-released Christmas ornaments that collectors and enthusiasts look for each year, our non-dated Christmas ornaments are made in classic and timeless designs that never go out of style. So when you’re looking for ornaments that you can enjoy year after year, continue reading below as we highlight our best-sellers.

Gorham Plain Sterling Silver Bell

The Gorham Plain Sterling Silver Bell has a simple yet refined design that features a brilliant, glimmering sterling silver finish. These ornaments are handcrafted by skilled artisans, giving you and your family a lovely symbol of the hope and joy that the holidays bring.

This ornament is non-dated, though you can engrave it to feature a custom messaging of your choice. So whether you want to keep this ornament for yourself or gift it to a loved one, this is an ornament that you will look forward to taking out of its box each holiday season.

Sterling Plain Bell by Reed and Barton

Another fantastic option is the Sterling Plain Bell by Reed and Barton. Reed & Barton sterling silver ornaments continue to be a meaningful Christmas tradition for many, and this classic non-dated design means it’s a timeless addition to anyone’s ornament collection.

You can admire the skilled silversmithing that goes into each of these pieces, which only helps to ring in the joy of the Christmas season. Made by the country’s most skilled silversmiths, you can enjoy this ornament’s classic beauty. Or, you can feel free to engrave it with a custom message to commemorate a specific year or occasion, like a baby’s first Christmas or your first Christmas as a married couple.

Reed & Barton Bell Photo Frame Ornament

The Reed & Barton Bell Photo Frame Ornament is a wonderful non-dated ornament that you can easily personalize with your own engraved message on the back and a photo in the frame. This was a brand new design last year in 2022, though the intricate scrollwork and festive bow on top give it a classic charm that speaks to the tradition of the holiday.

Though it is non-dated, you can still commemorate a special year or occasion through the photo you select for this frame, which is a 1.25” x 1.25” photo area. Plus, there is plenty of room on the back to engrave your own personal message. This ornament can be the perfect addition to your tree. Or, you can customize it with a photo and message for a special someone in your life as a touching gift this holiday season.

An All-American Christmas with American-Made Ornaments

Posted: December 12, 2022 in American Made, Christmas, Decorations, Holidays, Ornaments, Sterling Silver
Tagged: christmas, Christmas Decorations, Christmas Ornaments

There are a lot of advantages to supporting local creators. By buying American-made items, you not only support the national economy, but you’re ensuring that each product has followed American-based labor and fabrication standards.

Purchasing items made abroad also takes a lot more energy and resources to reach its destination. American products can reach your doorstep with a lower carbon footprint. If you’re searching for beautiful ornaments for your tree this year, why not assist American workers at the same time?

Buy American-Made Products

A popular sterling silver ornament made in the USA is the 2024 Gorham Snowflake. Every year since 1970, Gorham creates a collector holiday snowflake ornament to memorialize the year. This year, in its 55th edition, you can find a double-sided holiday snowflake design with quality sterling silver for you and your loved ones to mark the year. For an even more personal touch, add an engraving hang tag like a name, date, initials, or combination.

If you love color and traditional design, you’ll love the American-made 2024 Wonders of Christmas Gnome by Wallace Silversmiths. This 15th-edition piece weaves together rich hues of green, red, and gold to give your tree a little extra sparkle. It also uses high-quality gold plating paired with enamel, so it can last from generation to generation as a special keepsake. Each purchase also comes with a beautiful ribbon for hanging and a protective gift pouch for easy and safe storage.

American Brands

You can appreciate your ornaments even more deeply when you understand the background and dedication that goes behind each piece. Each American brand tells a unique story about its origins, growth, and talented workers.

For example, Gorham is a company that has been producing beautiful silver items since 1831. Their silversmiths work hard to ensure every piece meets the excellent expectations of craftsmanship required of them. This Rhode Island-based company is a wonderful choice if you’re looking for commemorative pieces that are made in America.

Craftworkers from Wallace Silversmiths trace their beginnings to Robert Wallace, who is known for creating the first nickel spoon in the United States way back in 1835. He then merged businesses with other well-known silver creators over the decades.

Today, 200 years later, his business belongs to the Lifetime Brands family well-known for their excellence in silver production. Today, you can complete your Wallace Silversmiths collection with pieces from all across the country marked from the 1800s to 2024.

If you’re interested in encouraging other national brands and boosting the local economy, search the Silver Superstore website for other popular American brands like Beacon Design, Empire Silver, Hand & Hammer, and Towle to get started.

Supporting National Manufacturers

Choosing to buy from American manufacturers is an easy way to help support the country. The more local creators earn, and in turn spend, on other local creators, the healthier our economic growth prospects become. Unfortunately, many American manufacturing companies have decreased nationally, which means fewer funds are invested into nearby communities through the jobs they create.

When you give money to American-based companies you can feel good about assisting the national manufacturing industry, bolstering the national economy, helping to prevent excessive imports and debt, and supporting jobs for your fellow citizens.

Luxury Christmas Ornaments for High-End Holiday Decor

Posted: November 18, 2022 in Christmas, Decorations, Holidays, Ornaments
Tagged: christmas, Christmas Decorations, Christmas Ornaments, home decor, interior design

Are you looking to elevate your Christmas tree’s look this year? Instead of plastic baubles, we suggest searching for long-lasting, high-quality material ornaments that still give the same fun and festive feel to your home.

Crystal Ornaments

Upgrade your tree with beautiful crystal ornaments that match nearly any decor, making them excellent gifts as well. Each sparkling piece will reflect your Christmas lights beautifully and bring a peaceful glow to the room.

One of the most popular models includes the Swarovski Winter Sparkle Ornament. This piece would look divine on any tree. Crafted with 110 crystal facets, it literally glows and sparkles when exposed to the light! It also includes its own white satin ribbon for the utmost sophisticated look while hanging.

Sterling Silver Ornaments

If your decor centers around silver pieces, there is a wide selection of ornaments that feature exquisite festive designs. They also make excellent gifts, because most come with the option for personalized engravings to commemorate any special moment or person!

We suggest marking the year with 2022 Gorham Annual Tree. This ornament resembles the charming and classic tree you’d see in any storybook, with adorable winter-themed motifs like hats, stockings, candy canes, and a beautiful star donned on top. Made with heirloom sterling silver, this sixth edition in Gorham’s series is a perfect ornament for anyone looking for a classical piece that can be passed down through the generations.

Gold Ornaments

If you’re searching for shimmering gold to light up your tree, you’ll love these high-quality gold-plated silver ornaments that are both stunning and highly affordable!

For traditional Christmas lovers, the Wallace Gold Plate Candy Cane is a crowd favorite. With more than 40 editions under its belt, this series is obviously beloved. Pieces like this one feature jolly designs and colors like red and green alongside the gold accents. Each has memorable winter motifs like snowflakes, doves, or bows. Buy more than one to truly give your tree a harmonious and cheerful look.

Jeweled Ornaments

Add another layer of shimmer and sparkle to your decor by using jeweled ornaments that come in a variety of shapes and colors.

You can even match you or your loved ones’ birthstones to the ornaments for an even more personalized feel with the Salisbury Birthstone Angel Collection. Buy one angel for each member of your family, or buy one for someone very special in your life!

If you’re looking for something more classic, check out the Lenox Silver Plate Snow Majesty Snowflake. This lovely decoration is crafted with light blue crystals, contrasting the smooth silver plating. This piece isn’t dated, so it’s really a quality and timeless piece you can enjoy on any tree, every year!

A Very Christofle Christmas: 5 Designer Must-Haves

Posted: September 23, 2021 in Christmas, Decorations, Sterling Silver, Ornaments
Tagged: Christmas Ornaments, Christofle, christofle flatware, Holiday Decoration

Christofle is one of the world’s premier silverware manufacturers that practices the art of fashioning the finest elegant and timeless designs on the planet. Their legacy of exquisite craftsmanship began in the 1830s when the Christofle family chose to specialize in gold and silver plating methods that took the world by storm. Since then, the Christofle Company has pioneered modern precious metal plating techniques that are used daily in their manufacturing plants.

As a result, Christofle has been able to unleash out-of-this-world designs by increasing their manufacturing agility without decreasing product quality. Making Christofle part of your Christmas tradition creates lifelong memories, which can be passed down through generations, and these five unique designer pieces are an absolute must-have for the holidays.

Christofle Ornaments

Decadent silver-plated ornaments and decorations make the perfect holiday gift, and these special items will bring sparkle and warmth to anyone they are gifted to.

Christmas Ball Ornament

This luxury silver-plated Christmas Ball is inscribed with the Christofle brand and the current year. The design consists of a christmas motif that was handcrafted in France, and this precious ornament comes accompanied by beige cord for display.

Mistletoe Bouquet Ornament

The traditional mistletoe kiss is an ancient tradition that represents love, peace, harmony, and continuity. Now, this time-honored plant that has lasted throughout the ages has been captured by seasoned crafters that brought the Mistletoe Bouquet ornament to life. A smooth and flat-surfaced silver plate in the shape of a circle represents never-ending love, and this divine collector’s item is topped with Christofle’s classic silver-plated bow.

Heart Ornament

Furnished with holly accents and inspired by Swedish wood-carved tree decorations comes this intricately designed Heart Ornament, set with silver plating, and is also outfitted with Christofle’s classic silver-plated bow mounted at the top. The heart is a symbol of the core of human affection, and this timeless classic is sure to become a sacred holiday ornament that ushers in love and laughter.

The entire Christofle ornament collection is filled with wonder and magic just for the holidays. Be sure to shop the entire collection and take advantage of limited edition pieces, which will create memories that last a lifetime.

Formal Holiday Silverware

Iconic 1890s French decor can grace your table with Christofle Marly, one of the most distinguished sterling silverware sets in the Christofle collection. Natural beauty, voluptuous curvature, and shell motifs that capture the spirit of the Louis XV era will add elegance and refinement to your holiday gatherings for many years to come.

Malmaison Sterling Silverware

Magnificent yet straightforward is the essence of Christofle’s Parisian influenced Malmaison sterling silverware. The palm and lotus leaves that surround the borders of each instrument add touching attention to detail that will catch the eye of party guests. This set of flatware tends only to reveal itself at the most celebrated occasions, and holiday 2021 is the perfect time to introduce this exquisitely crafted set in celebration of this year.

3 Occasions to Commemorate with an Ornament

Posted: November 24, 2020 in Baby Gifts, Christmas, Holidays, Ornaments
Tagged: Baby's First Christmas, christmas gifts, Christmas Ornaments

Though we know many Christmas ornaments symbolize the warmth and togetherness of the holiday season, they can also serve as a commemoration of other occasions.

Christmastime is a milestone for many that represents not just the peak of the holiday season, but the culmination of other events that took place that year.

An occasion-based Christmas ornament can make a beautiful gift or family heirloom. So without further ado, here are three great occasions that can be wonderfully commemorated with a Christmas ornament.

Our First Christmas

Whether you and the one you love have tied the knot this year or just established yourselves as life partners, it’s an event worth celebrating! Wedding & Our First Christmas Ornaments are beautiful reminders of the first Christmas you spend together as a couple.

This is an especially lovely gift for newlyweds that tie the knot during the holiday season. Have it engraved with the year to make it an ornament they look back on forever.

A timeless reminder of love, devotion, and the many Christmases you’ll spend together for years to come, it’ll be a token of your commitment and reminder of Christmas’ true meaning: love.

Our New Home

What better way to say “Happy Housewarming” than to give a Christmas ornament that permanently marks the occasion in stone — or in this case, silver!

If you know a couple that has just moved into — or purchased — their first home together, a New Home ornament is a lovely gift. You can have it engraved with their new address or the year.

A New Home ornament doesn’t even have to serve as a gift. Perhaps you’re shopping for ornaments to decorate your first Christmas tree in said home and feel one representing your new abode is the right fit. Rest assured, you’re absolutely right.

One look at your New Home ornament and you’ll feel just as cozy as you do inside the place you call your own.

Baby’s First Christmas

What better occasion to celebrate in unison with Christmas than the presence of a new life? If your little one is about to enjoy their first holiday season, you might want to mark the momentous occasion with a Baby’s First Christmas ornament.

A Baby’s First Christmas ornament also makes a great gift for new parents. You can gift it at any time of the year and watch their faces light up with proud parental memories when they finally hang it.

Your little one’s first Christmas is a significant experience: you’ll watch their faces light up at the beautiful lights and essence of Santa for the first time in their lives. Why not also watch their twinkly eyes marvel at the shine and glimmer of a beautiful Christmas ornament just for them?

No matter what milestones this holiday season represents for you, you can cherish all the major moments of your year with the help of a commemorative silver Christmas ornament.

4 Holiday Traditions to Bring Back

Posted: October 13, 2020 in Christmas, Decorations, Gifts, Lifestyle, Ornaments
Tagged: Christmas Decorations, Christmas Ornaments, Holiday Traditions, Traditional design

The holidays are upon us and because this year has been a doozy, holiday cheer is exactly what we need to close it out. Though many of the holidays we’ve celebrated this year have been stifled under quarantine mandates, the loosening of restrictions have come just in time.

As stores and restaurants do their best to safely reopen, we can expect that much of our Christmas routine will resemble the years past.

While many are still being careful about entertaining large groups, hanging lights and decorations around your home is a tradition that can be safely done with your roommates and immediate family. And while your usual traditions drum up the old nostalgia, maybe you’re hoping to add a little spice by starting a few new traditions. And by new, we mean retro.

Popcorn & Cranberry Garland

We know stringing popcorn sounds like something out of a made-for-tv Christmas movie, but it’s just the kind of thing that can turn a boring evening into a family event. Imagine sitting around the living room, a cup of cocoa or eggnog with a splash of brandy, Nat King Cole on in the background, and bowls of popcorn (to string AND snack).

It’s an activity that’s easy to do while catching up on life’s events. Pop some cranberries on those strings and you’ve got yourself a simple, yet festive tree decoration.

Ornament Exchange

Decorating the Christmas tree is a common tradition in many homes. Each year, a tree is brought home from the tree farm (or the faux tree box is pulled out of storage) and decorated with the same ornaments from the year before.

Whether they’re generic and solid colored, craft ornaments made by your children, or decorative heirloom ornaments passed down from generation to generation, adding a new one each Christmas is a fun way to commemorate the year.

Wrap a new ornament, Invite over a few friends, and make a game of it! Roll dice and choose whoever has the highest number to start. Continue that way until all of the ornaments are given out. For an added bonus, allow each player (at the start of their turn) the opportunity to steal from someone who has opened their ornament already.

Mistletoe

Kissing under the mistletoe might seem like a thing of the past, but when it’s meaning might make you want to bring it right back to the present. Historically, the Greeks started the tradition of kissing under the mistletoe at weddings to increase the chances of fertility.

Later, it became a symbol of peace. Enemies at war would restore peace by coming under the mistletoe in agreement. After the year we’ve had, a little peace between friends and family might be just what you need!

12 Days of Christmas

This tradition might be a little more familiar to you. Many families still celebrate the 12 Days of Christmas, but if you don’t, it could be a fun addition to the festivities you’ve already planned.

While it has traditionally been a religious ritual meant to commemorate the day that the three wisemen came to visit Jesus on the 12th day, you can make it your own.

It begins on Christmas Day and ends on January 6th. You can celebrate by opening one gift per day as a family (or one gift per person in the household) or enjoy a wintry activity that your household can enjoy together. You can also purchase from our 12 Days of Christmas ornaments, and hang one ornament on each corresponding day.

A Brief History Of The Wallace Candy Cane

Posted: July 3, 2018; Updated October 29, 2024 in Christmas, Decorations, Gifts, Lifestyle, Ornaments, Traditions
Tagged: 2024 Wallace Candy Cane, Annual Candy Cane, Annual Ornaments, Candy Cane Ornament, Wallace Candy Cane, Wallace Ornaments

A History Of The Wallace Candy Cane

The 2024 Wallace Candy Cane is just one of the many classic ornaments that we offer at Silver Superstore. This piece has been released annually for decades, but where did it get its start?

A Brief History Of The Candy Cane

If a legend dating to 1670 is to be believed, the first candy cane was the brainchild of a German church choirmaster. Hoping to keep the little ones quiet during a reenactment of the Nativity, he asked a local confectioner to make what he described as “sugar sticks” for them. To justify doling out treats in church, the choirmaster suggested adding a crook at the top; with any luck, that would inspire the children to reflect on the humble shepherds in the scene.

This lovely story may have some basis in truth, but the first stick candies didn’t debut until confectioners competed for prizes at an exhibition in Massachusetts in 1837. The earliest recipe for a straight peppermint candy stick was published in 1844, and there’s mention made of a candy cane in an 1866 literary work. Candy canes as we now know them didn’t show up on Christmas trees until the early 1880s.

They’re still showing up today.

The Wallace Silversmiths Candy Cane

Wallace launched its popular silver sleigh bell ornament series in 1971. Competitors were turning out snowflakes, crosses, Christmas trees and other emblematic designs.

In 1981, Wallace started producing annually issued candy canes as well. The ornaments in this series are made of gold plate and enamel and have charming seasonal motifs. As with the sleigh bells, each year’s candy cane is uniquely detailed. All are painted in traditional Christmas colors with a little lime green occasionally thrown in for variety. Every piece is a testament to thoughtful design and fine craftsmanship.

Wallace started making sterling silver candy canes in 2008 while continuing the traditional line. The silver ornaments, which are dressier than the enamel ones, incorporate Wallace flatware patterns. The Sir Christopher, Impero and Coburg patterns are recent examples.

Both ornament styles are timeless. When the trinkets are carefully unwrapped on a cold winter day, they inspire people to make a fire, bake cookies and revisit old family albums. They will make future generations smile.

Each colorful enamel candy cane has a Christmas symbol that repeats over the hook and down the length. The classic stripes are formed from gold plate. All the ornaments are around 4 ½ inches long and 1 ½ inches wide.

The first, issued in 1981, featured alternating red and green Christmas bows. Other themes in the series include holly, gingerbread men, Santa Claus hats, mittens, ice skates, snowflakes, snowmen, Christmas trees, toy soldiers and reindeer. The 26th edition featured a string of colored lights, and the 2004 issue sported a little train on a curving track.

This year’s 39th edition reverts to the red and green Christmas bow motif, but the shades are much subtler than in the original. The 2019, 12th-edition sterling silver candy cane features the Shenandoah flatware pattern. This timelessly elegant piece will add an eye-catching glimmer to your tree or mantel.

Each ornament comes with a gift box, a protective velvet pouch, a festive red bow for hanging and a brochure. The Wallace mark is stamped on the reverse side.

Treasured Heirlooms

Wallace Silversmiths has 185 years of experience. Its products are designed to last, retain their beauty and stay in families for years to come. You can make your ornament even more personal by adding an engravable gift tag. We offer a number of distinguished fonts.

These collectibles are in high demand. They often become hard to find or sell out before it’s time to decorate the tree. Don’t delay ordering your special memento of the season.

A History Of Gorham & The Gorham Snowflake

Posted: June 29, 2017 in Gifts, Lifestyle, Ornaments, Traditions
Tagged: 2017 Christmas Ornaments, christmas, Christmas Decorations, Gifts, Gorham, Holiday Traditions, snowflake ornament, Snowflakes, Tree Decorations

The 2024 Gorham Snowflake is in stock. Buy it now while supplies last!

A Brief History of Gorham & Their Annual Gorham Snowflake

One of the cheeriest days of the year is the day that holiday ornaments are unpacked. Greeting familiar items warms a winter day like nothing else, especially when trinkets have been in the family for years.

The annually issued Gorham Snowflakes are particularly elegant pieces. Their appearance varies from year to year, but it remains true to the original designer’s vision. For over 50 years, these sterling silver ornaments have been brightening Christmas trees, fireplace mantels and gift boxes across the country.

History

Jabez Gorham founded Gorham Manufacturing Company in Providence, Rhode Island, in 1831. In addition to sterling silver spoons, the company produced thimbles, jewelry, combs and other small items.

It was Gorham’s son John who expanded the family business by recruiting designers and craftsmen from the finest houses in Europe. He soon landed a lucrative contract to manufacture all the silverware sold at Tiffany & Co.

The enterprise eventually moved to Fifth Avenue in New York City, into a building designed by the famous architect Stanford White. Gorham’s reputation for quality led to its becoming one of the largest and most respected sterling silver manufacturers in the world.

Gorham creations were an integral part of the White House decor during several administrations. Mary Todd Lincoln enjoyed a tea and flatware set. To commemorate the U.S. centennial in 1875, Julia Grant commissioned a vase made of more than 2,000 ounces of silver.

The 740-piece Furber dining service was made for the president of Universal Life Insurance Company in 1870; it’s a fine example of Victorian-era opulence. Trophy commissions have included the Davis Cup for tennis, the America’s Cup for yachting and the Borg-Warner Trophy for Indianapolis 500 auto racing.

Gorham pieces are on display in museums around the country.

The First Snowflake

Richard Maiella conceived and crafted the first snowflake in 1970. The multifaceted ornament was not only lovely, but it was designed to shimmer as it reflected Christmas tree lights.

Just as they are today, the snowflakes were sold with a storage box, protective pouch and red velvet ribbon for hanging. Maiella is said to have expressed the hope that they’d fetch at least $10. He couldn’t have predicted the public’s wild enthusiasm for his creation.

Variations

Designs may be complex one year and less ornate the next. Like the real thing, no two Gorham snowflakes are exactly alike. The 2015 Gorham Snowflake, for example, features tiny heart-shaped cutouts, which are not featured on the 2016 Gorham Snowflake. Waiting for the newest edition is part of the fun of collecting them.

Craftsmen elaborate on the six-pointed star that always forms the center. The ornaments are approximately 3 inches in diameter at their widest.

A few editions were enhanced with other materials. The 2000 version commemorated the millennium with crystal, and the ornaments produced from 1981 to 1989 incorporated gold plating.

Gorham was forced to use silver plating in 1980 when price manipulation drove raw silver prices to around $100 per troy ounce. The manufacturer could hardly expect to charge $200 when the previous year’s snowflake had sold for $30. Every other edition has been made of sterling.

The ornaments had a flat side for engraving until 2009. Now, both sides are multifaceted. It is possible to personalize them with an engraved tag. The company name and edition year are stamped along one edge.

Prices for previously issued snowflakes vary wildly depending on condition and scarcity. The presence of the original box, pouch and ribbon increases value. Current editions typically sell out in early December.

Collecting Gorham Snowflakes to pass down to future generations is an enjoyable and thoughtful tradition.