Modern Stainless Steel Teaspoon by Ampro
Flatware (Spoon) · Ampro; a contemporary manufacturer or private label brand focusing on mass-produced consumer kitchenware and catering supplies.
Pattern: Generic teardrop or 'fiddle' style contemporary pattern; non-cataloged high-volume production design.
Type
Flatware (Spoon)
Maker
Ampro; a contemporary manufacturer or private label brand focusing on mass-produced consumer kitchenware and catering supplies.
Material
Stainless Steel; no silver content present. Composition is likely 18/0 or 18/8 grade steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
Dimensions
Standard teaspoon length, approximately 6 inches (15 cm); estimated weight 30-45 grams.
Description
A utilitarian modern teaspoon featuring a streamlined, unadorned aesthetic. The piece prioritized function and ease of maintenance, lacking the ornate details found in traditional silverware.
Key Features
Explicit 'STAINLESS STEEL' marking, machine-stamped brand name, and lack of silver fineness marks (like .925 or Sterling).
Material & Composition
Stainless Steel; no silver content present. Composition is likely 18/0 or 18/8 grade steel for durability and corrosion resistance.
Finish & Decoration
High-polish mirror finish; undecorated minimalist design with no engraving or relief work other than the stamped brand and material name.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Stamped with 'STAINLESS STEEL' on the neck and the brand name 'Ampro' on the terminal of the handle in sans-serif capital and lowercase letters.
Construction Details
Machine die-struck from a single sheet of stainless steel; cold-pressed manufacturing typical of modern industrial flatware.
Functional Features
Ovoid bowl for liquids/solids, tapered neck for balance, and a flared handle for ergonomic grip.
Handle & Grip Details
Integral solid metal handle, flat profile with a rounded teardrop terminal; part of a single-piece construction.
Craftsmanship Details
Industrial machine-grade; features clean die-cut edges and a consistent polish but lacks the hand-finishing or depth of precious metal work.
Authentication Indicators
The item is clearly identified as non-silver by its own 'STAINLESS STEEL' stamp; it lacks the hallmarks required for sterling or plated silver.
Origin & Manufacturing
Likely manufactured in East Asia (China or Southeast Asia) for global distribution in retail or food service markets.
Era & Period
Modern/Contemporary Era (late 20th to 21st century); representative of utilitarian mass-market design.
Age Estimate
Circa 1990-present; contemporary production based on the stamping font and manufacturing style.
Cultural Significance
Represents the democratization of dining utensils where durable, low-cost materials replaced precious metals for everyday use in the modern household.
Condition Notes
Good condition; visible surface scratches and 'spider-webbing' consistent with daily use and mechanical dishwashing.
Value Estimate
Nominal value; typically part of a budget set priced at $1-$2 per piece or sold in bulk for food service use.
Care & Maintenance
Dishwasher safe; avoid prolonged soaking in acidic liquids to prevent pitting; no polishing with silver cream required.
Similar Pieces
Comparable to generic flatware found in 'Big Box' retailers or restaurant supply sets like those from Oneida, Cambridge, or Libbey.
Interesting Facts
Stainless steel flatware was first widely adopted in the mid-20th century as a 'no-polish' alternative to silver, revolutionizing household dining maintenance.