Antique New Zealand sterling silver tea spoon, Chester, 1922, William Vale & Sons

Small but elegant, this rare antique New Zealand sterling silver tea spoon with nephrite jade handle bears English hallmarks for Chester, 1922, sponsor’s mark for William Vale & Sons- Birmingham jewellery and silver smiths active on Unit Street whose work passed through both Birmingham and Chester assay offices.

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.

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 $160 AUD.

Measurements: 12 cm length, 8.8 g total weight.

Excellent antique condition overall.