Antique New Zealand sterling silver and nephrite tea spoon, marks for Birmingham, James Swann & Son

Small but very elegant, this rare antique New Zealand sterling silver tea spoon with nephrite jade handle bears English hallmarks for Birmingham, sponsor’s mark for James Swann & Son, with this mark used in the early period of their partnership circa 1922 to 1937. Although the year mark is rubbed, with the sponsor’s mark we can determine that this spoon is circa this period.

Silversmiths being relatively uncommon in New Zealand at the time, it is likely that silver blades and settings were made in the Old World and shipped to New Zealand where they would have been mounted.

Beautiful handle with Maori motif; this variety of nephrite, which is native to New Zealand amongst other countries, has been prized throughout time for its beauty and rich green shade.

Price marked at $100 AUD.

Measurements: 11.2 cm length, 8.7 g total weight.

Excellent antique condition overall; light wear overall to gilt.