Crystal Decanter Help

[Indian Steve]

A good friend gave us a matching pair of decanters that had been in her family for a while. They 11 3/4 inches tall including the stopper, 9 1/8 inches tall without the stopper, 2 5/8 inches across the glass top, 3 1/2 inches across the base and weigh 3 pounds 8 ounces. The stopper is stamped Sterling 637 and the stopper on one is etched 62 and the glass decanter is etched 62. I guess the numbers were to match the stopper & glass. It has 8 panels. Does anyone on here know a possible maker or age? How do you remove the milky looking film inside? Thanks

 

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[Deftone]

I've had some success soaking stuff overnight or maybe a bit longer with warm water and vinegar. Good luck Steve. Cool stuff!

 

[WG2020]

In addition to the vinegar, I add rice to clean a milky decanter. Add a handful of rice to the vinegar, swill it around vigorously, then rinse with hot soapy water and dry with a clean cloth.

 

[Back-of-the-boat]

When I worked in a restaurant as a kid we would put crushed Ice and salt and I don't remember if we put a little cold water to clean up the coffee pots, you put it in and swish it around and they come out clean as could be.

 

[ANTIQUARIAN]

Those are some beautiful decanters Steve, younger people just don't appreciate these types of pieces anymore!

Your decanters are probably American-made cut glass and date from the 1860 - 80 period. They remind me of the type of items that Gorham would've retailed in the 19thc. These very likely started out as a set of three, Whisky, Brandy & Gin and may have sat on a sterling silver decanter stand.

If you can find a silver assay stamp on the tops you will be able to more accurately date these pieces.

Great advice from the other members on cleaning the cloudiness of the glass too.

Dave

 

[Indian Steve]

Thanks for all of the information. They are stamped STERLING.