History
Knives date as far back as the Stone Age, when they were used for hunting and eating. Before the advent of the spoon, people used naturally hollowed-out items from nature such as shells. Animal horns, bone and wood were used for the first man-made spoons. Knives and spoons were personal property and were carried in a small bag attached to the belt. Originating in the Orient, forks have joined the flatware family only within the past few centuries.
Significance
Silverware often gets passed down through the generations of a family. Typically, a mother will pass her cherished flatware set to her oldest daughter as a wedding gift. The set is considered the family's "fine silverware" and is reserved for formal or other special occasions. If you have had antique silverware passed down to you, have it valued by an antiques appraiser. You may want to consider insuring the set.
Patterns
A number of silverware patterns were designed to imitate styles of earlier eras, such as the fairly common Louis XIV-inspired patterns of 17th and 18th century France. Other flatware patterns are explicit to a particular company. This is the case of a 19th century silversmith William (or Wm.) Rogers, who was best known for his Elberon pattern. Many silversmiths patented their patterns to prevent duplication by competitors and make them easily identifiable with specific companies. Antique silverware patterns reflect the time when they were produced. Simple times called for simple flatware while economically strong times called for more magnificent flatware.
Collecting
For collectors of antique silverware, the functionality of a piece is an important consideration, particularly when it's a specialized serving piece that's become obsolete. Aesthetics is another essential aspect of collecting antique silverware. When buying a complete set of flatware, pick an eye-pleasing pattern. If you've had a silverware set passed on to you and you're unsure of the pattern, a website like SilverCollect.com has a published list and photo examples of numerous silverware patterns to aid in identification.
Value
The overall condition of an antique silverware set affects its value. Missing, pitted, tarnished or otherwise damaged pieces will lower the overall value. Larger, complete sets with serving pieces will generally be worth more. Silverware made before 1830 will be more valuable, as this marks the point when mass production began. Before that, silverware was hand-made by an artisan. When it's well cared for, antique silverware will continue to appreciate in value.