Scottish Pewter is used in the manufacture of quaichs, cufflinks, brooches, and numerous other practical and decorative items. It has undergone a revival in recent years and is widely used in the manufacture of Scottish Gifts today.

This article provides an introduction to pewter and its component metals.

What is Pewter made of?

Pewter is a mixture of metals (alloy). The main constituent is tin (90%+). Other metals used include antimony and copper. Pewter made in early timeshad a high lead content. As a result Pewter items of the time were heavier and generally had a dull appearance. The antimony used today replaces the lead. Pewter made today will generally be lighter, easier to clean, and of course does not carry the risk of lead poisoning.

Pewter and Tin Misconceptions

Did you know that tin, the main constituent of pewter, is a precious metal?

It is widely believed that tin is a cheap metal used in the manufacture of tin foil and cans. Tin cans were in fact made from iron dipped in tin to prevent rust. The tinfoil of today is made from aluminium.

Tin is the 4th most precious metal in used today after platinum, gold and silver.

A Rough History

• Pewter was used in ancient Egypt.

• The Romans introduced pewter to Britain in the 2nd Century AD.

• By the 15th century pewter was used in the manufacture of everyday household items traditionally made of clay, leather, or wood. These included plates, bowls, buttons, candlesticks, cutlery, toys, and many other items.

• In the 18th and 19th centuries advances in glass and porcelain manufacturing processes lead to a widespread decrease in the use of pewter.

• Today the popularity of pewter ware is more popular than ever driven by consumer demand and crafts people who have rediscovered the pewter’s beauty and practical function.

In Scotland today Pewter is used to make Scottish and Celtic jewellery. Many examples of modern pewter jewellery can be found with intricate patterns inspired by Celtic and Pictish designs of old. Of course Scottish pewter jewellery is not only restricted to the traditional designs of many centuries ago. Pieces can be found featuring traditional Scottish symbols such as the Thistle, some with a modern twist.

Other more traditional Scottish pewter jewellery may also feature designs such as the claddagh and luckenbooth (strictly speaking Irish in origin). Both used as a symbol of love. It is said the Mary Queen of Scots presented Lord Darnley with the luckenbooth which at the time would have been in the form of a brooch.

The claddagh originates from a small Irish fishing village. It is made up of three symbols used to display loyalty, love, and friendship.

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