A Quarter Century in Sterling:
Celebrating 25 Years of Elegance, Craftsmanship, and Legacy
In an era of disposable trends and fleeting fashions, reaching a 25-year milestone in any business is a profound achievement. But for one steadfast proprietor of fine American antique and estate sterling silver, this anniversary marks far more than longevity—it is a testament to passion, perseverance, and the enduring power of timeless beauty.
From a modest beginning to a legacy that now spans a quarter-century, the founder of this venerable silver shop, Raymond Sasson reflects on the significance of reaching his Silver Jubilee— a poetic and deeply personal nod to the very material that has defined both their life’s work and his artistic devotion.
“Let me start by saying that I feel blessed to still be relevant and doing what I love all these years later,” Raymond shares. “The fact that I am still selling silver in the same location after 25 years tells me that whatever I’m doing, I’m doing something right.”
Staying true to one's craft for 25 years is no small feat. Raymond’s journey has spanned moments of triumph and turbulence: from the aftermath of 9/11, to the financial crisis of 2008, and most recently, the COVID-19 pandemic which brought the antique world to a near halt. Each chapter brought uncertainty—but also resilience.
“At each of these junctions, I felt the pain and anxiety, as did many other small business owners. And yet, after each crisis, my business bounced back stronger and more resilient,” he said. “Reaching this milestone reassures me that the values my business was built upon—honesty, integrity, and standing behind everything I sell—are still resonating with people.”
The decision to mark this 25-year celebration as a Silver Jubilee was an inspired one, steeped in both symbolism and sentiment. Traditionally, 25 years is commemorated with sterling silver—a fitting and poetic coincidence for a dealer whose life has revolved around the art of this precious metal.
“The irony and significance was not lost on me,” Raymond laughs. “How could I, a silver dealer, not celebrate my silver anniversary? But beyond the symbolism, it’s a moment to pause, reflect, and look ahead. I want to use this opportunity to connect with a broader audience—those who are longing for the beauty and grandeur that only antique sterling silver can offer.”
Over the years, a passion for silver has evolved from simple admiration to deep stewardship. No longer just a seller, Raymond sees himself as a curator of heirlooms— each piece holding stories, secrets, and history, waiting to be passed down.
“I’m often told I’m a great salesman, but the truth is—I’m not. The silver sells itself. I simply help people see what’s already there,” he explains. “I see myself as someone preserving pieces of art and ensuring they find their forever homes. There are fewer and fewer of these treasures out there. They are, in many ways, an endangered species.”
The challenge, however, lies in educating a new generation—one raised on speed, ease, and impermanence—about the relevance of silver in today’s world.
“For younger generations, everything has to be convenient—and sadly, disposable. I often hear that silver is ‘too hard to maintain.’ But clothing must be laundered, homes maintained, and silver, yes—polished. If you love something, caring for it becomes second nature. I don’t know if I’ve overcome the challenge, but I’ve certainly learned how to speak to it with more clarity over the years.”
As the business celebrates this defining milestone, the message to loyal customers, collaborators, and supporters is clear and heartfelt:
“As long as I am able, I will continue to offer the largest and most extensive collection of fine American antique and estate sterling silver. It’s in my blood. Sharing my knowledge, my passion, and my collection—it’s what I was meant to do.”
Looking ahead to the next chapter, the mission remains rooted in legacy and education. The dream? To ignite a love for silver in a new generation—one that can appreciate not only the aesthetic brilliance of sterling, but the lineage, craftsmanship, and meaning it carries.
“It’s not about what’s easy or trendy. It’s about understanding and honoring history, beauty, and permanence. If I can pass that message on to even a handful of people, then I will have done my job well.”
In an ever-changing world, this Silver Jubilee is more than an anniversary—it is a declaration. A declaration that craftsmanship still matters. That legacy endures. And that, when done right, beauty truly does stand the test of time.
Historical Origins of the Silver Jubilee
Royal Tradition
The concept of a "jubilee" originates from biblical times, where every 50th year was considered a jubilee year—a time of celebration, liberation, and restoration. This idea evolved over centuries and was later adopted by monarchies, especially in Britain and Europe, to celebrate landmark anniversaries of sovereign reigns.
The Silver Jubilee became formalized as a 25-year commemoration—especially for reigning monarchs. One of the most famous modern examples was King George V’s Silver Jubilee in 1935, marking 25 years on the British throne, celebrated with parades, public holidays, and commemorative memorabilia. More recently, Queen Elizabeth II's Silver Jubilee in 1977 was a major national and Commonwealth celebration.
Material Significance of Silver
The use of precious metals to mark time is a tradition dating back centuries. Just as silver represents 25 years, gold is used for 50, diamond for 60, and platinum for 70+. Silver’s symbolism is associated with purity, reflection, strength, and resilience—qualities attributed to endurance and legacy over time.
Adoption by Businesses and Institutions
Beyond royalty, the term Silver Jubilee has been widely adopted by corporations, schools, non-profits, and artisans to honor their 25th year of establishment. It conveys more than a passage of time—it suggests credibility, staying power, and excellence across changing generations and circumstances.