Silver and niello
Siam silver is sterling decorated with niello, a black inlay of silver, copper and sulphur fused into engraved lines. The black ground makes the hand-cut figures seem to glow.
Mekkala and other figures
The most common figure is Mekkala, the goddess of lightning, often shown dancing. You’ll also see temple dancers, mythical birds and scenes from the Ramakien.
Pieces from this guide
Dating a piece
Most pieces were made between the 1930s and the 1970s, many as souvenirs. The mark “Siam” stayed in use long after the country became Thailand in 1939, so it isn’t a date on its own.