Picked up these cosmetic pots this Summer at an estate sale, thinking sterling because of the marks. Was polishing them yesterday and they just didn't feel quite right. I got out my magnifying glass for a closer look. One mark was indistinct but the one shown here is clear. Marked SterlinE. Come to find out that it is a trademark for the James E. Blake Co. Used on nickel silver items. In business 1889 - 1936. I only paid $3 each so no big deal. Just not the deal I thought I was getting.
Yes, thanks for the tip. At least, they're not plated and they are very nice! "SterlinE, SterlinE!" (sung to the tune of Dolly Parton's Jolene, Jolene!)
I have one similar one that was my grandma's. She used to put her jewelry in it when the powder was gone. Not sure if there are any marks. Will check later on
Even if they were real silver there wouldnt be much weight, so no great loss. Still nice to have the real thing though. I bought a Royal Brierley crystal powder pot with silver lid a couple of years ago and never managed to sell it. I got as low as £20 and delisted it when I got offered £15. So there it is, sat looking pretty.
Unfortunately, while Blake's trademark was registered and their advertising clear, other makers and retailers started using 'STERLINE' (without the larger 'S' and 'E'), most common on jewelry. The first conviction under the 1906 National Stamping Act didn't occur until 1924 and it involved a 'STERLINE' necklace clasp - the defendant plead guilty and paid a $25 fine. ~Cheryl
