How To Choose A New Baby Gift

Welcoming a new baby into the world is a momentous occasion, one that calls for a truly special gift. For centuries, sterling silver has been the material of choice for christening gifts and heirloom baby keepsakes. From silver spoons to baby rattles, these cherished items have been passed down through generations, symbolising love, protection, and prosperity. In this guide, we explore the rich history behind silver christening gifts and why they continue to hold significance in modern celebrations, including baby showers and naming ceremonies.

The History of Silver Christening Gifts

The tradition of gifting silver to newborns dates back to medieval times when silver was considered a precious metal. Silver was believed to possess protective and healing properties, making it the perfect material for baby gifts. Affluent families would present a silver spoon, often engraved with the baby’s initials, as a sign of wealth and good fortune. This tradition gave rise to the well-known phrase, “born with a silver spoon in their mouth.” 

During the Victorian era, the practice of giving sterling silver christening gifts flourished. Ornate silver baby rattles, cups, and cutlery became cherished heirlooms, symbolizing purity and longevity. These keepsakes were carefully crafted by skilled silversmiths, with many featuring intricate engravings and embellishments.

Why Sterling Silver?

Sterling silver (92.5% pure silver) has long been revered for its durability, beauty, and hypoallergenic properties, making it ideal for baby gifts. Unlike other metals, sterling silver is sterile and does not tarnish easily when properly cared for, ensuring that heirloom pieces remain stunning for generations.

The Symbolism of Silver in Baby Gifts

• Protection: In ancient folklore, silver was believed to ward off evil spirits and offer protection to the wearer.
• Prosperity: Silver has long been associated with wealth and good fortune, making it an auspicious gift for a newborn.
• Purity: The brilliance of sterling silver symbolizes innocence and purity, aligning perfectly with the sacred nature of christenings and naming ceremonies.

The Modern Heirloom: Lily Blanche Sterling Silver Baby Rattle

One of the most treasured heirloom baby gifts is the Lily Blanche Sterling Silver Baby Rattle. Based on a classic Victorian design, this exquisite rattle is handcrafted in solid sterling silver and can be engraved to create a unique, personal keepsake. Each personalised baby rattle comes with a choice of ivory, baby blue, baby pink or Dress Stewart tartan ribbon. All of our sterling silver baby rattles are independently tested and hallmarked with a full UK hallmark by the Edinburgh Assay Office. The baby rattles are safe to give to a baby from 3 months of age onwards. Please remove the ribbon from the teething rattle before giving it to the baby. Beautifully presented in a luxury gift box and available with gift wrapping, it is the perfect way to celebrate a newborn's arrival.

Why Choose a Sterling Silver Baby Rattle?

• An Heirloom in the Making: Designed to be cherished and passed down, a silver rattle is a timeless keepsake.
• Personalisation: Engraving adds a bespoke touch to an antique-style baby rattle, making the gift even more meaningful.
• Craftsmanship: Handcrafted in solid sterling silver, ensuring exceptional quality and longevity.
• Presentation: Arrives beautifully packaged, making it an effortless yet impressive gift choice.

Silver Christening Gifts in the Modern Era

While traditional christening ceremonies remain popular, many families today celebrate a baby's arrival with alternative ceremonies, such as baby naming ceremonies and baby showers. Modern parents appreciate gifts that blend tradition with contemporary style, and sterling silver keepsakes fit perfectly within this trend.

Silver rattles for babies, engraved silver cups, and delicate silver bracelets are now given not only at christenings but also at baby showers, symbolising love and bestowing blessings on the newborn.

Choosing the Perfect Silver Baby Gift

When selecting an heirloom baby gift, consider:

• Personalisation: Engraving initials, a name, or a birth date adds sentimental value.
• Quality: Ensure the item is made from genuine sterling silver and features a hallmark for authenticity.
• Presentation: A beautifully boxed and gift-wrapped item enhances the gifting experience.

Final Thoughts

Heirloom gifts crafted in sterling silver are a testament to timeless elegance, making them the perfect way to welcome a new baby into the world. Whether you're celebrating a christening, a baby shower, or a newborn's arrival, a sterling silver keepsake—such as the Lily Blanche Sterling Silver Baby Rattle—is a gift that will be treasured for generations to come.

Discover More

Explore our exquisite range of heirloom-quality sterling silver gifts at Lily Blanche and find the perfect keepsake to celebrate life’s most precious moments.