The members of British aristocracy were very formal people. This formality extended to even the most basic of everyday things – even small things like tea became very rigid ceremonies in powerful families. This is probably one of the things that made the British so sure of themselves – they ran the world’s most truly sophisticated global empire without batting an eyelid at the tremendous risk and responsibility of it all.
How did they do this? One of the ways was, interestingly enough, through their jewellery. Not necessarily through the jewellery they wore, but through the things that they used to bring these ceremonies – such as the daily tea and crumpets – to life.
And if you need further proof that the British consider their jewellery to be an indicator of authority and power, look no further than the fabled Crown Jewels in London. Housed in the Tower of London (formerly an executioner’s dungeon), these jewels are probably the safest-guarded collection of jewels in all of Europe – and yet the Royal Family ensures that they are accessible to all those members of the general public who want to view them. And as a result of this, hundreds of people come to view the Crown Jewels every day – not just tourists, either, but many born-and-raised Britons as well. Why is this, then? Why would they come out to look at some dust-covered old jewels? Because, of course, the focus is not on the jewels themselves, but what the jewels represent – the bygone era of British power, of chivalry and knights and royal families and the East India Company. These glory days may never return, but they will remain firmly cemented in the minds of the British, and the minds of the rest of the world.
And if you are interested in bringing this British elegance into your life, you can do this in a surprisingly affordable manner. Not everyone needs the crown jewels – or a complete set of sterling silver flatware, there are much simpler ways of injecting a touch of class into your life. For example, there is the silver teapot, a quintessential item of Britishness, and perfect for brewing some Earl Grey. And if tea is not your thing, there are other ceremonial objects as well – perhaps none more important or recognizable than the sterling tray. Winston Churchill received letters from President Roosevelt on silver trays, presented by his butler. The sterling silver tray, also known as a “salver”, has cemented its place as an item of historical importance in the cultural identity of the British.
Letters are not the only things these can be used to deliver. Their original purpose, of course, was as a tool upon which to serve food. Silver serving trays have sadly left our mainstream consciousness today, and most people seem to be equally happy with the brown plastic trays they get at McDonalds, but if you truly want to enjoy the luxurious experience of being served food before beginning a meal, you can get a very well-made silver serving tray for an astonishingly reasonable price these days.
If you are interested in purchasing one, the main choice is really between a salver made of solid silver, or a silver plated tray. Solid silver is probably the sturdier option (and has a very satisfying weight to it); unfortunately, these are very hard to find so you may have to settle for the lighter version.