IAN PICKFORD

After an introduction to the full background of silver as a precious metal, Ian Pickford's guide offers a lively, authoritative survey of the diverse uses to which it has been put in decorative and practical objects throughout history. He examines the makers, their techniques, and the types of decoration used, and also gives clear coverage of marks and assay offices, an understanding of which is vital to the collector. There is coverage of fakes and altered silver, as well as advice on caring for silver. This is an ideal book for the novice collector who wishes to avoid pitfalls and ill-advised purchases. Existing collectors will find all titles in the series act as a handy and portable references, and beginners will welcome a reliable, accessible starting point from which their interests can develop.

Based on the revised edition of Jackson's Silver and Gold Marks of England, Scotland and Ireland , published in 1989, this slim volume contains concise and essential information in a handy pocket size reference, now issued in a paperback version. The editor of Jackson's has selected over 1000 makers whose work is of especial interest: some because they made fine work that is undervalued, others because they are of historical interest; a few because their work should be avoided. Complete cycles of silver marks are given for all the important assay offices, with variations shown for gold, platinum, Britania standard, import marks, etc. The Pocket Edition has been updated to 1991 to include current assay marks. The book is aimed at dealers, collectors, curators, auctioneers, students of silver and gold.