The number shown alongside the category includes available and sold items, sold items can be accessed by using the drop down bar on right hand side of page.
To view most recently sold items click on the last available page.
We’re here to your answer your queries, don’t hesitate to reach out.
category info
Silversmiths began creating silver dessert spoons in the 18th century to elevate the dining experience as formal dining customs evolved. They designed these spoons specifically for enjoying desserts, distinguishing them from other tableware through size and elegance.
During the early period, artisans crafted dessert spoons with a smaller and more refined shape than regular table spoons, making them suitable for delicate desserts. Wealthy households, eager to impress their guests, invested in these beautifully crafted spoons as part of elaborate dessert services. The designs often included intricate engravings, monograms, and ornate handles, reflecting the sophistication of the host.
As the 19th century progressed, the production of silver dessert spoons expanded alongside the growing middle class. Silversmiths responded to the increasing demand by offering a variety of styles that catered to different tastes and budgets. The Victorian era, in particular, saw a flourishing of design diversity, with patterns inspired by Gothic, Rococo, and Classical motifs becoming popular. Advances in manufacturing techniques allowed for both hand-crafted and mass-produced options, making silver dessert spoons more accessible to a broader audience.
In the late 19th and early 20th centuries, dessert spoons often came as part of complete silverware sets, presented in elegant cases. These sets became popular wedding gifts and heirlooms, symbolizing family heritage and social status. The Art Nouveau movement brought about more fluid and naturalistic designs, while the subsequent Art Deco period introduced sleek, geometric patterns.
Throughout the 20th century, changes in dining habits and the advent of new materials like stainless steel led to a decline in the everyday use of dessert spoons. However, their appeal endured among collectors and those who appreciated fine tableware. Antique silver dessert spoons remained valued for their craftsmanship, beauty, and historical significance.
Today, silver dessert spoons continue to be treasured as both functional items and decorative pieces. They are often featured in formal dining settings, used in celebratory meals, and collected as part of antique silverware collections. The enduring legacy of dessert spoons highlights their role in the evolution of dining customs and their lasting appeal as symbols of elegance and refinement.
Situated within the Central belt of Scotland (UK), we are a small, family run business. Indeed, we traded in silver for many years before forming Dart Silver Ltd in 2006.
