At the 10th anniversary party last month held in the 30-dealer centre, which specialises in silver and vintage costume jewellery, she reaffirms this.
“When we opened we aimed to keep high standards of quality and condition and we have achieved this,” Smith says.
“Our customers are often looking for traditional christening gifts or presents that have a purpose, rather than just for display or pieces that can be treasured and passed on.
“We find that silver egg cup sets are always popular. A cased silver egg cup and spoon will usually be around £100-125 depending on the date, maker and condition.”
Another popular idea, adds Smith, is a piece of silver, usually a spoon or napkin ring hallmarked 100 or 200 years before the birth year.
“We also have a good number of collectors and vesta cases are popular here,” she says. A late Victorian or early Edwardian vesta case in good condition will usually start from £45-65, while unusual examples of a combination of vesta with a sovereign holder or a photo locket are “more sought-after and command a higher price”.
