We are often asked how to care for pewter figurines. Unlike silver, modern lead-free pewter made in the United States does not tarnish because it no longer contains lead. Pewter must contain a minimum of 90% tin. The rest is composed of antimony and copper. Your pewter figurines may need an occasional dusting with a soft cloth, but not much more to keep them looking beautiful for years to come. Never use any type of abrasive cloth, cleanser or cleaning sprays on your figurines as this may cause permanent damage. If you feel you need to clean your pewter figurines, use only mild soap and warm water or a cleaner specifically meant for pewter and related metals. As with dusting, use a soft cloth. Be sure to dry your figures thoroughly.

Modern-day pewter figurines come in a variety of finishes from buffed satin (also know as "museum quality" to a sparkling white sterling silver finish. There are some pewter figurines that appear a bit darker or "older" than others. This does not necessarily mean the figurine contains lead or is an older figurine. The figurine was most likely put into an oxidizing solution to give it an "older" appearance. We make our own oxidizing solution to "age" or darken some of our pewter figurines. Some figurines are also diamond-cut along the edges. This can be a dramatic effect.

Compared to platinum, gold, and silver, pewter is a relatively soft metal. Because of this, care should be taken to protect your pewter figures from falling. Pewter figurines with small and/or delicate parts can often bend or break all together and are difficult or impossible to repair depending on the damage done.

With proper care, your figurines will last a lifetime!