====== Christofle ======

Founded in 1830 by Charles Christofle, **Christofle** is the premier French purveyor of silver-plated and sterling silver tableware. The brand is synonymous with the "Art of the Table" (Art de la Table), having served the French royalty, including King Louis-Philippe and Emperor Napoleon III.

Christofle is most famous for its mastery of the **EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver)** process, which they patented in the 1840s, revolutionizing the silver industry.

===== 1. The "Hotel Collection" (Vertigo & Mood) =====

Christofle's **Hotel Collection** is renowned for its "heavy-gauge" plating, specifically engineered for the rigors of professional hospitality while maintaining a high-luster aesthetic.

  * **Durability**: These pieces feature an extra-thick silver coating compared to standard consumer lines, designed to withstand frequent industrial dishwashing and heavy daily use in Michelin-starred restaurants.
  * **Design Language**: Often characterized by minimalist, timeless lines that complement both traditional and contemporary table settings.
  * **The "Mood" Concept**: A modern icon—a sleek, egg-shaped stainless steel case that houses a 24-piece silver-plated flatware set, redefining how cutlery is stored and presented.

===== 2. Technical Excellence: The Christofle Hallmark =====

Unlike many competitors, Christofle uses a high-grade base metal (Nickel Silver) and a proprietary electroplating technique that ensures the silver bond is exceptionally strong. 

  * **Hallmarks**: Every authentic piece bears the "Scales" hallmark and the Christofle name, ensuring the quality and silver content.
  * **Anti-Tarnish**: Modern Christofle silver-plated items often feature an invisible protective coating to slow down the natural oxidation process.

===== 3. Iconic Collections =====

^ Collection ^ Style ^ Description ^
| **Albi** | Classic | Inspired by the clean lines of the Albi Cathedral in France. A staple of formal dining. |
| **Malmaison** | Empire | Features palmette leaves and eagle motifs; the height of Napoleonic elegance. |
| **Jardin d'Eden** | Baroque | Designed by Marcel Wanders, featuring intricate floral engravings across the entire surface. |

===== 4. Care and Maintenance for Christofle Silver =====

  * **Frequent Use**: The best way to care for Christofle silver is to use it. Regular use prevents heavy tarnish from building up.
  * **Dishwasher Safety**: Most modern Christofle silver-plated flatware is dishwasher safe, provided you use powder detergent (avoid gels with chlorine) and do not mix silver with stainless steel in the same basket (to avoid "galvanic corrosion").
  * **Storage**: Store in Christofle's specialized anti-tarnish cloth bags or chests to maintain the brilliance between uses.

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**See Also:**
  * [[:en:materials:silver_plated|Understanding EPNS (Electroplated Nickel Silver)]]
  * [[:en:items:flatware|The History of Luxury Flatware]]

{{tag>brands france silver_plated luxury hotel_collection}}