18K White Gold Plated Sovereign Crest Salt Shaker
Salt Shaker / Tableware · White Gold (Rhodium finish). The cool, silvery-white metallic tone suggests a white gold or rhodium-plated exterior rather than yellow or rose alloys.
Purity: Likely 18K White Gold Plating (Vermeil potential) or Rhodium-plated Sterling Silver; base metal likely 925 silver or nickel-brass alloy.
Type
Salt Shaker / Tableware
Purity
Likely 18K White Gold Plating (Vermeil potential) or Rhodium-plated Sterling Silver; base metal likely 925 silver or nickel-brass alloy.
Gold Type
White Gold (Rhodium finish). The cool, silvery-white metallic tone suggests a white gold or rhodium-plated exterior rather than yellow or rose alloys.
Weight
Estimated 80-120 grams depending on whether the body is solid silver with gold plating or a weighted base design.
Description
An elegant, classically inspired salt shaker featuring a bulbous base that tapers to a slender neck, topped with a domed perforated lid. The body is adorned with a finely engraved sovereign-style crest, resting on four decorative scroll-motif feet.
Key Features
Hand-engraved heraldic crest, decorative cast feet, and a high-luster white metallic finish characteristic of premium white gold or rhodium plating.
Color & Finish
High-polish mirror finish with a cool white metallic tone. Visible surface scratches and slight patina in recessed areas of the footed base.
Hallmarks & Stamps
None clearly visible in image; likely located on the underside of the base or along the bottom rim. Expected stamps: '750' or '18K' if gold, or '925' for sterling.
Dimensions Estimate
Approximately 10-12 cm in height, 4-5 cm base diameter; standard table service size.
Gemstones & Inlays
None. Features an engraved heraldic crest/coat of arms on the main body of the vessel.
Clasp & Closure
Screw-top or friction-fit perforated dome cap for dispensing contents.
Chain & Links
N/A. Features a footed base with ornate scrolled acanthus leaf or shell-style moldings.
Craftsmanship Details
Cast decorative feet joined to a spun metal body; lid perforations appear precision-drilled; crest is likely machine-etched with manual detailing.
Authentication Indicators
Uniformity of color across the crest engraving suggests solid base metal or thick plating. Reflectance profile is consistent with high-grade precious metal finishing.
Origin & Maker
Likely European origin, specifically French or Italian boutique silversmith. French 'Leboncoin' watermark suggests European provenance.
Era & Period
Neo-Classical or Victorian Revival style; likely contemporary production modeled after 19th-century European silhouettes.
Age Estimate
Late 20th Century to Contemporary (circa 1980-2020), utilizing traditional casting and mechanical engraving techniques.
Cultural Significance
Salt cellars and shakers served as vital status symbols at European banquet tables for centuries, denoting wealth and the ability to afford expensive imported spices.
Condition Notes
Good condition. Shows light surface abrasions (micro-scratching) consistent with table use. No significant dents or structural deformations visible.
Value Estimate
Secondary market value $150-$450 based on brand and material verification. Primarily valued for artistic merit and utility unless confirmed as solid gold.
Care & Maintenance
Wash with warm soapy water and dry immediately with a soft microfiber cloth; avoid abrasive silver polishes that can wear down white gold or rhodium plating.
Similar Items
Sterling silver salt shakers by Christofle or Tiffany & Co.; 14K yellow gold salt cellars; Pewter reproduction 'castle' shakers.
Interesting Facts
In the Middle Ages, salt was so valuable it was often kept in elaborate gold and silver vessels called 'nefs', placed specifically to indicate the social status of guests.