Everlast Forged Aluminum Rose Pattern Scalloped Plate/Candy Dish
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Plate) · Everlast Metal Products Corp (Everlast Forged Aluminum). Founded in NYC (1932) by Louis Schnitzer and Nathan Gelfman. Known for pioneering decorative hand-forged aluminum giftware that mimicked expensive silver.
Pattern: Wild Rose (Triple Rose Cluster variant). This was one of Everlast's most prolific and iconic patterns, featuring trio or single blooming roses with serrated leaves.
Type
Hollowware (Serving Tray/Plate)
Maker
Everlast Metal Products Corp (Everlast Forged Aluminum). Founded in NYC (1932) by Louis Schnitzer and Nathan Gelfman. Known for pioneering decorative hand-forged aluminum giftware that mimicked expensive silver.
Material
Forged Aluminum (not silver). It is composed of industrial-grade aluminum alloys. It contains 0% silver. The metal was marketed as 'Hand Forged' during the Great Depression and WWII era as a durable, non-tarnish alternative to silver.
Dimensions
Approximately 6 to 9 inches in diameter. Weight is significantly lighter than silver, likely 150-250 grams. Aluminum has a low density compared to the heavy 'heft' of sterling silver.
Description
This is a classic piece of Mid-Century 'Hand Forged' Aluminum. While it mimics the aesthetic of high-end sterling repoussé (like Kirk Steiff), it is actually made of lightweight aluminum. The dish features three large blooming roses at the center of a scalloped, wavy rim. The surface has a distinctive matte, brushed texture that hides scratches well and gives it a rustic yet elegant appearance.
Key Features
Characteristic 'grey' metal tone of aluminum; lightweight feel; 'Hand Forged' anchor hallmark on back; floral rose motif; scalloped crimped edges.
Material & Composition
Forged Aluminum (not silver). It is composed of industrial-grade aluminum alloys. It contains 0% silver. The metal was marketed as 'Hand Forged' during the Great Depression and WWII era as a durable, non-tarnish alternative to silver.
Finish & Decoration
Satin/brushed finish with a 'hand-hammered' look. Decoration consists of die-struck or chased floral motifs (roses and leaves). The edges are crimped and scalloped with a subtle pie-crust texture. The surface shows characteristic wire-mesh or wheel-brushed swirl marks.
Hallmarks & Stamps
Likely stamped on reverse with an anchor mark and 'EVERLAST FORGED ALUMINUM' in a circular or linear arrangement. It may also include the word 'HAND DONE'. There are no silver hallmarks (no lions, no '925', no 'Sterling') because the item is aluminum.
Construction Details
Machine-stamped from a sheet of aluminum and then finished with hand-applied techniques to simulate artisanal silver. Use of hydraulic presses for the main shape followed by hand-crimping of the scalloped edges and surface brushing.
Functional Features
Used as a candy dish, nut tray, or decorative coaster. Highly functional due to the metal's resistance to tarnish; it does not require the heavy polishing that silver does.
Handle & Grip Details
None; this is a low-profile dish intended to be held by the scalloped rim.
Craftsmanship Details
Hybrid manufacture. The roses are die-pressed, while the crimped edges show manual manipulation. The quality is 'commercial-artistic' rather than 'fine-art' silversmithing.
Authentication Indicators
Lack of silver hallmarks; lightweight density; characteristic 'swirl' marks from factory brushing; typical 1940s floral stamping style. Red flag: often mistaken for 'Mexican Silver' by novices, but the greyish-blue matte tint is definitive for aluminum.
Origin & Manufacturing
USA (New York City). Manufactured in the Everlast workshop which transitioned from silver-plating to aluminum to survive the economic climate of the 1930s.
Era & Period
Depression Era / Mid-Century Americana (late 1930s-1950s). Historical context: Aluminum was a 'modern' metal that was accessible to the middle class during periods when silver was unaffordable or silver production was diverted for war efforts.
Age Estimate
Circa 1940-1955. The style and metal type are synonymous with mid-century American giftware.
Cultural Significance
Represents the 'Genteel Poverty' of the Depression era and the growth of the American giftware industry. It democratized the look of luxury by providing a silver-like aesthetic at a fraction of the cost.
Condition Notes
Good to Very Good. There are visible surface scratches and 'pitting' (small dark spots) which are common in old aluminum exposed to acidic foods or moisture. Some minor oxidation is present. Grade: Good.
Value Estimate
$10 - $25 USD. Market value is low as these items were mass-produced. Value is mostly decorative or sentimental rather than as a precious metal investment.
Care & Maintenance
Clean with warm soapy water. Do not put in the dishwasher (will turn the metal a dark, dull grey). Use fine steel wool or specialized aluminum polish to restore luster. Do not use silver dip.
Similar Pieces
Wendell August Forge (higher quality), Continental Silver Co. (Wild Rose pattern), Rodney Kent (Ribbon/Tulip patterns). Differ from sterling pieces like Kirk-Stieff Repoussé by weight and lack of tarnish.
Interesting Facts
During WWII, aluminum became scarce as it was needed for aircraft production; items like this became prized gifts because they looked like silver but were far more durable for everyday use. Everlast was the leading brand in this 'Aluminum Renaissance'.