Brand Guide
Tiffany & Co. Silver
Founded 1837 · New York
Signature Collections
Moore-Era Japonesque
1868-1891Under Edward C. Moore's direction, Tiffany silver became museum-quality art. He pioneered the Japonesque style in America, integrating mixed metals like copper and gold. This isn't just silverware, it's competitive global exhibition art.
Authentication Guide
Hallmarks
- ◆Marked 'TIFFANY & CO' followed by 'STERLING' or '925'.
- ◆Critically, look for the pattern numbers and the initial letter of the prevailing director (e.g., 'm' or 'M' for Moore).
What to Look For
- ✓Unbelievable heft and gauge. The silver is thick, deeply chased, and perfectly balanced.
- ✓In Japonesque pieces, the mixed metals (copper/gold) are seamlessly inlaid or applied.
Red Flags
- ✗Thin, flimsy construction.
- ✗Erased monograms. If you hold it to the light and see a thin spot where an engraving was buffed out, the piece is severely compromised.
- ✗Fake mixed-metal apps that look glued on.
Price Ranges
Best value era: 1870s-1890s (Moore era)
What Dealers Look For
Understand that this is a completely separate market from Tiffany jewelry. You buy this at silver specialist auctions, not jewelry sales.
Edward C. Moore is the magic name. Anything with his director's mark ('M' or 'm') carries serious weight.
Leave the tarnish in the deep recesses! Taking a piece to a high-polish shine ruins the contrast the maker intended.
Monograms from the 19th century are normally a plus if they are beautifully hand-engraved. Don't let them scare you off.
Weight matters. Substantial gauge silver from this era feels totally different from modern 20th-century hollowware.
Frequently Asked Questions
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