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Over the years the pewter combinations varied a lot and it is important to know what is pewter made from. However, one thing is for sure: depending on its purpose and use, the proportions of metal used vary as well, so that it is softer and easier to use. The aesthetics matter as well, that is why some metals have been replaced over the years with better ones.

Having this in mind, the effects of some pewter combinations are as follows:

• Antimony – Ideal to maintain pewter bright and easily to tarnish.
• Copper – A high level of copper softens the pewter, being workable.
• Lead - Due to its carcinogenic nature a mixture of lead is specifically used for plates and hollowware.
• Bismuth, Copper & Lead – Based on how the pewter will be used to create pewter art, pewter plates or pewter ornaments, the proportions used will vary. In this way, control will be better maintained and the metal will look great for many years ahead.
• Casting pewter – This type of pewter requires a lower melting point, but sometimes changes are made to suit the customer’s requirements.

Even if pewter antique works are more valuable than the modern ones, the quality and aesthetics of the actual pewter art has improved severely. Therefore, it is important to be aware of what is pewter made from, its origin and types of pewter existent today. The proportions used vary according to its use, but the aesthetics and quality have improved. The high proportion of tin used makes the alloy softer.

In the past centuries, there were used three degrees of pewter:

• Fine pewter – which contained 99% tin and only 4% copper.
• Trifle pewter – which contained 92% tin and approximately 4% copper.
• Lay pewter – which contained a minimum of 4% and maximum 15% lead, the rest was tin.

The pewter alloy resulted was used to create various pewter items. For example, the fine pewter and trifle pewter were used to produce eating utensils, tableware and plates. Experts believe that the reason for the low number of pewter artifacts existent today is due to the low melting point of pewter. In addition, it seems that some of the pewter items were melted down and used to create new ones.

In time, the pewter combinations and the metals used to create the pewter alloy changed a lot. For instance, after it was discovered that lead produces poisonous effects, it was soon replaced with a combination of bismuth and antimony. This combination is used today as well, and depending on what pewter item will be produced the chemical specification vary.

Pewter it is known to be the fourth most precious metal after gold, silver and platinum. Nowadays, the pewter tankards, pewter flatware and pewter jewelry are still very popular and highly used for any special occasion, wedding or Christmas holiday. If you are interested in antique pewter items, there are auctions organized.

Finally, once you are properly informed about the chemical specification, pewter combinations and pewter history, you only have to browse through our great pewter items and choose the favorite ones.
You can start the home decoration by finding the best antique pewter articles and collectables that will match your home furniture and home design.