International Silver Co. Gardenia Pattern Silver-Plated Tablespoon
Flatware - Spoon (Tablespoon/Serving Spoon) · International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Founded in 1898 through the merger of multiple independent silver companies (including Rogers and Wilcox), it became the world's largest manufacturer of silver-plated flatware and hollowware during the 20th century.
Pattern: Gardenia (1941). Created by the Wm. Rogers & Son brand (a division of International Silver). The pattern is characterized by a romantic floral cluster of gardenias and scrolls.
Type
Flatware - Spoon (Tablespoon/Serving Spoon)
Maker
International Silver Company, based in Meriden, Connecticut. Founded in 1898 through the merger of multiple independent silver companies (including Rogers and Wilcox), it became the world's largest manufacturer of silver-plated flatware and hollowware during the 20th century.
Material
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). This consists of a base metal alloy (typically copper, nickel, and zinc) that has been thin-coated with pure silver via an electrolytic process. It contains no solid sterling silver.
Dimensions
Standard tablespoon length approximately 7.25 to 7.5 inches. Weight typically ranges between 45 and 55 grams depending on the specific blank used.
Description
An elegant example of American mid-century silverplate, the Gardenia pattern by International Silver captures the optimism of the 1940s floral revival. The spoon features a graceful ovoid bowl balanced by a handle adorned with delicate, realistic gardenia blossoms and flowing scrollwork. Its heavy silver plating was designed to provide the look and feel of solid silver at a price point accessible to the average household during the mid-20th century.
Key Features
Distinctive three-flower cluster at the base of the handle; vertical ribbing transitions into the floral terminal; lack of 'Sterling' hallmark; characteristic 'yellowish' tarnish typical of plated items.
Material & Composition
Electroplated Nickel Silver (EPNS). This consists of a base metal alloy (typically copper, nickel, and zinc) that has been thin-coated with pure silver via an electrolytic process. It contains no solid sterling silver.
Finish & Decoration
The pattern features a combination of mirror-polished bowl finish and embossed floral decoration on the handle. The design is in the Late Art Deco/Romantic era style, featuring a central floral cluster, a subtle sandblasted or matte texture in the recessed background of the handle, and scroll-work borders.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Usually stamped 'WM. ROGERS & SON' or 'IS' (International Silver) on the reverse of the handle. It will lack the word 'Sterling' or the '.925' mark. The 'AA' or 'Sectional' markings may be present to indicate the thickness of the silver plating.
Construction Details
Machine-manufactured using die-striking techniques. The base metal is stamped from sheets under high pressure to create the floral relief, and subsequently electroplated in a silver bath.
Functional Features
Ovoid bowl and flared handle. Designed for general table use or serving side dishes. The handle includes a cartouche area that, while decorated, could theoretically accommodate a small monogram, though this pattern usually features full-field floral decoration.
Handle & Grip Details
Solid one-piece construction (non-hollow). The handle is tapered with a rounded end, featuring high-relief gardenia flowers near the neck and end of the handle.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial quality. Excellent die-work for mass production, showing clean relief lines in the floral pattern. This is a machine-made product intended for consistency and durability over artisanal uniqueness.
Authentication Indicators
Pattern matches the 1941 Gardenia registry; lack of sterling hallmarks confirms its status as silverplate; wear patterns are consistent with electroplated nickel silver rather than solid alloys.
Origin & Manufacturing
United States of America. Manufactured in Meriden, Connecticut, the 'Silver City' of the world, following American industrial factory standards for mass-market consumption.
Era & Period
Mid-Century Modern / World War II Era (Introduced 1941). The style reflects the transition from the geometric Art Deco to the more ornate, romantic floral motifs popular in American homes during the 1940s and 50s.
Age Estimate
Circa 1941 to mid-1950s. The pattern was most prolific immediately following the war years.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of luxury in American dining culture during the 20th century. Patterns like this allowed middle-class families to maintain the social ritual of a formal table setting without the massive investment required for sterling silver.
Condition Notes
Good overall condition. Visible surface micro-scratching (swirl marks) in the bowl suggests frequent use and cleaning. Dark tarnish is present in the crevices of the floral design. Some 'heel wear' (base metal showing through the silver on the back of the bowl) is likely present if viewed from the reverse. Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
$3.00 - $8.00 USD for a single tablespoon. Silver-plated flatware holds primarily sentimental or utilitarian value rather than investment value, as it cannot be melted for metal scrap profit.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with a mild silver cream (e.g., Wright's) using a soft sponge. Do not use abrasive pads or dip cleaners, as these can strip the thin silver plating and expose the base metal. Store in a tarnish-resistant chest or cloth.
Similar Pieces
Oneida 'Coronation', Gorham 'Chantilly' (Sterling version), and International 'Spring Glory'. The key difference is the base metal and the specific floral species depicted.
Interesting Facts
The Gardenia pattern was one of the many designs marketed heavily to young brides during the post-WWII marriage boom. International Silver's 'Wm. Rogers & Son' line was their affordable brand, designed to compete with department store lines by offering high-style patterns.