This sterling silver James style goblet will grace any type of home from a classic 'olde worlde' to a more contemporary one. It is a joy to use, being a piece of handcrafted work of lasting value in contrast to some of today's landfill production. It is a treasure to pass on to future generations and will make a great talking point at the dinner table.

I had been skeptical of mixing old with new until I saw an exhibition by contemporary silversmith Stuart Devlin where his contemporary range was displayed on antique furniture in a Bond Street retailer.

The method of production is an interesting one, from 4 main components of sterling silver. The bowl, then a reinforcing plate, a cast stem and finally the base.

Today's silversmith buys readymade silver sheet from a bullion dealer. He then cuts the several silver discs for all the components (except the stem) and proceeds to spin the bowl part of the goblet. This has to be done in several stages  Upon completion of the bowl, part 2 a small thick disc about the size of a 1p coin is domed and soldered to the underside of the bowl, this is to strengthen the area where the stem will attach and stop damage occurring.

The next component is the cast stem. In this case the cast goblet stem is soldered to the sub assembly components 1 and 2. Last is the silversmithing process in the base. This is again the spinning process. The base is then soldered to sub assembly 1-2-3 to make the finished but unpolished and unhallmarked goblet. At this stage it has a flat milky coloured surface which is the pure silver at the surface of the metal . Next is a visit to the London Assay office in Goldsmiths Hall London where each of the 4 components are tested If the results are positive the 'hallmarks' are punched into the surface in a position of the silversmiths choosing. Upon returning to the silversmiths workshop the small dents (caused by the punching of the hallmark) are removed. The piece is finally polished using 4 grades of abrasive, terminating in jeweler quality rouge which imparts the final luster.

And in the case of a drinking goblet, the inside of the bowl is gold plated which eliminates any chance of a slight coppery taste which might be experienced without this gilding.

This silver goblet will enhance any table and the soft glow of candlelight on silver is something not to be missed.

A suggested silver present idea is to buy a boxed pair and have them engraved to mark the occasion, a wedding, or a special anniversary perhaps.

These silver James style goblets can be passed from generation to generation and treasured by everyone that uses them.

In the unlikely event of damage JA Campbell provide a repair service. 

You can be assured that all J A 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. Price is for a single goblet.