A mouth blown English crystal whisky tumbler with a detachable sterling silver base.

Here at JA Campbell Silversmiths we place no restrictions on what you serve in these silver based glasses, although whisky is one of the preferred drinks, we just want you to enjoy using silver on every possible occasion to enhance your lifestyle.

The manufacturing process is described by Silversmith John Campbell.

This glass consists of 2 components, a crystal glass and a silver base. The glass arrives from Dartington crystal and is checked for quality and consistency of size.

The bases are made using the metal 'spinning' method. This is an ancient method of making round hollow objects from flat sheet material. This method is suitable for relatively small production runs and is quite inexpensive to set up. The process is done on a metal spinning lathe which is similar to a heavy duty wood turning lathe. A 'former' or 'chuck' is made on the lathe from wood, brass or steel. A disc of silver is 'spun' over the chuck. The tool used to complete this process is called a 'spinning' tool and it consists of a polished steel burnisher fitted on to a long wooden handle. This is held under the arm of the silversmith and he makes slight sweeping actions to achieve the result required. When the base fits the glass each is numbered to ensure they fit correctly and then a pair of decorative lined are turned into the surface of the silver. A large hole is then cut out of the middle of each silver base.

At this stage the bases are taken to the London Assay Office to be scraped and tested. Once a positive result has been received from the laboratory confirming that the article has been made with metal at least 92.5%, pure silver the hallmarks are punched into the surface. This independent hallmarking process began in the 1400's and is one of the world's oldest and most secure forms of consumer protection.

Upon arrival back at our workshop, the hallmarks are inspected and 'set', that is to remove the dents put in by the punching process. Following this the JA Campbell name punch is applied to the base and the polishing process begins. Using 4 different grades of compound the item is polished to the high luster for which silver is known. It is then ultrasonically cleaned and dried. The correct base is fitted to each glass and then packed into presentation boxes.

Silver is best when used and requires so little cleaning when used regularly, a soft cloth and some mild soapy water after use will keep it looking perfect for many weeks without needing a full polish.

The glasses are sold as a pair and come packaged in a satin lined box which makes them an ideal present for many occasions.

The silver base or the crystal bodies can be engraved with a message of your choice to personalize the gift.

As JA Campbell offer a replacement/repair service for the silver or crystal then you can be sure the silver present will last for years to come.

You can be assured that all JA Campbell products are made up to a standard not down to a price. Nothing leaves the Brentwood workshop until Master Silversmith John Campbell is completely satisfied.

Silver is idea as an investment to hand down to future generations.

Price is for a pair of whisky tumblers. Also shown highball tumbler and stirrer.