Broadway & Co Review: The Last Silver Brush

The "Silver Hairbrush Set" used to be a standard 21st birthday or christening gift. Most modern ones are silver plate over plastic. Broadway & Co (founded 1900) in Birmingham makes the real thing. Hallmarked Sterling Silver.

The Process: Die Stamping

They use Victorian steel dies to stamp the pattern (Art Nouveau, Art Deco) into a sheet of solid silver. The silver shells are then mounted onto wooden brush bodies (filled with natural bristle). The polishing is done by hand.

The Verdict

It is an anachronism. Who sits at a dressing table brushing their hair for 100 strokes anymore? But as an object, it is beautiful. It is an heirloom. A plastic brush goes in the bin. A silver brush goes to your granddaughter.

Pros:

• Solid Sterling Silver (Hallmarked).
• Traditional patterns are stunning.
• Made in Birmingham Jewellery Quarter.

Cons:

• Silver tarnishes (needs polishing).
• Very expensive (£200+ for a brush).

Related: Deakin & Francis Review | Kent Brushes Review