Product Care

Porcelain - Robert Haviland & C.Parlon
and Seignolles

         This porcelain is of the highest specification ensuring  that it is not only exceptionally beautiful but also very practical. Porcelain is fired twice at very high temperatures enabling not only a truly delicate finish but also tableware that is robust.  It is advisable to wash by hand using a soft cloth quickly after use, although plates with non metalic patterns are dish washer friendly if handled with care.

Crystal

Expect minor bubbles, swirls or dotting that are inherent to full lead crystal and are characteristics of the creative process that impart a natural beauty and uniqueness to each individual piece.

Always wash by hand in warm, soapy water and dry with a soft cloth to prevent water marking. Make sure each piece is dry before storage. Always store crystal stemware upright and not rim down, with sufficient space between items to prevent contact.

Sudden temperature changes can cause crystal to crack or shatter. Allow a few minutes for cooling time before adding ice-cold drinks or ice to recently washed crystal.

Do not leave food or drink in a crystal piece for long periods. Prolonged exposure can cause residue build up.

Sterling Silver

All the sterling silver is of the highest quality and is independently assessed and marked by an independent assay office, in this case in Birmingham, to ensure that the products are sterling silver - 925 parts in 1000. The original assay Act was passed by parliament in 1773 to protect both the customer and the silversmith industries

Cleaning and storage

Contrary to popular belief, silver does not need constant cleaning and in fact should not be cleaned more than absolutely necessary. The need to do so can be reduced by regular dusting with a soft cloth, using a brush with very soft bristles for crevices, or washing in warm soapy water, rinsing well and drying with kitchen towel. Silver should not be put in a dishwasher as the salts and detergents may harm the surface. 

Tarnishing does not actually harm silver. It is caused by a number of factors including humidity and  foods such as egg yolks, brussel sprouts, table salt, olives, salad dressing,  vinegar and fruit juices, therefore table silver which has been in contact with them should be washed as soon as possible. Fingerprints can leave deposits which also cause tarnishing so it is helpful to wear cotton gloves while cleaning or dusting. In order to remove tarnish it is best to use impregnated cloths, silver foam or polish as these are the least abrasive products: it is also helpful to use a long-term variety as this will reduce the need for frequent cleaning.

When cleaning silver only use a silver polish, not a metal polish intended for copper and brass.  Rinse after cleaning in clean water and dry with kitchen towel or a clean tea towel. A dry soft brush can be used to remove polish from crevices. Never use wire wool or an abrasive cloth to remove stains as they will scratch the surface, and polish as seldom as possible as a small amount of metal will be removed over time. 

When not in use or on display it will tarnish less if kept wrapped in acid-free tissue paper or undyed cotton or linen and kept in airtight conditions. Avoid using storage cabinets or chests with rubber seals or allowing silver to come into contact with any form of rubber. Do not store in plastic or other wrappings that may contain moisture.