Vermeil (Gold-Plated Sterling Silver) French Christening or Dinner Set by Daniel Crégut
Flatware and Hollowware Set (Spoons, Fork, Cup, Egg Cup, Napkin Rings, and Sugar Tongs) · Yellow Gold (Vermeil plating over a silver base)
Purity: Vermeil - typically 18K to 24K gold plating over .950 or .800 fineness solid sterling silver
Type
Flatware and Hollowware Set (Spoons, Fork, Cup, Egg Cup, Napkin Rings, and Sugar Tongs)
Purity
Vermeil - typically 18K to 24K gold plating over .950 or .800 fineness solid sterling silver
Gold Type
Yellow Gold (Vermeil plating over a silver base)
Weight
Estimated total weight 350-500 grams (combined silverware and hollowware)
Description
An exquisite French vermeil table service including a timbale (cup), coquetier (egg cup), and flatware, known for its iconic 'Grains d'orge' or reeded patterns.
Key Features
Gold-washed bowl interiors to prevent metallic tarnish taste; engine-turned horizontal ribbing on hollowware.
Color & Finish
High-polish mirror finish with rich gold-tone interior 'vermeil' and silver-tone exterior patina
Hallmarks & Stamps
French 'Minerva' head (sterling) and 'Orfèvrerie Daniel Crégut Paris' maker marks
Dimensions Estimate
Cup height approx 8cm; Spoons 14-18cm; Standard European table sizing
Gemstones & Inlays
None; features engine-turned (guilloché) engraving and reeded decorative bands
Clasp & Closure
Not applicable; sets secured in silk-lined presentation boxes
Chain & Links
Not applicable; items feature solid fiddle-style and reed-pattern handles
Craftsmanship Details
Hand-finished machine-turned engraving; high-quality soldering on the cup base and egg cup pedestal.
Authentication Indicators
Distinctive Daniel Crégut retail packaging and known French silver-gilt hallmark consistency.
Origin & Maker
Paris, France; Orfèvrerie Daniel Crégut (est. 1945)
Era & Period
Mid-20th Century French Mid-Century Modern with Art Deco influence
Age Estimate
Circa 1950-1970 based on hallmark style and branding
Cultural Significance
A traditional French 'Cadeau de Naissance' (Christening gift) symbolizing heritage and the start of a child's dowry or silver collection.
Condition Notes
Very Good; light surface tarnish consistent with age; gold wash is preserved in interiors; original boxes included.
Value Estimate
Market value $600-$1,200 USD depending on total silver weight and current spot price plus maker premium.
Care & Maintenance
Hand wash only in mild soap; avoid abrasive polishes that can strip the thin gold 'vermeil' layer.
Similar Items
Christofle Silverplate (lower value), Puiforcat Solid Gold Flatware (higher value), or Ercuis Vermeil.
Interesting Facts
Vermeil was legally defined in France to require a silver base of at least 800 fineness and gold plating of at least 10 microns.