Questions, answered
The things people ask at the counter of the Kolkata shop, and on the phone, answered plainly.
Is everything in the shop real silver?
Every piece is silver plated: a 0.2 micron layer of real silver over a solid brass body, sealed with a lacquered polish. Nothing is sold as sterling. That distinction is on the shop's own care card and explained on the care page.
Does silver plated tarnish?
Bare plate would, just like sterling. Argent Lane's pieces are lacquered, which seals the silver away from the air that causes tarnish. Kept away from damp and never polished or cleaned with chemicals, the finish stays bright.
How should I clean a piece?
With a soft, dry cloth, and nothing else. No liquid acid, no chemicals, no acetone or solvents, and no polishing, because polish can strip the protective lacquer. The full instructions from the shop's care card are on the care page.
Do you take bulk or return-gift orders?
Yes. Wedding return gifts, tattva sets, corporate and festive orders are all taken with advance notice. Call with the occasion and rough quantity, and settle the details with the shop directly.
Do you take custom orders or engraving?
Yes to both. The shop makes custom pieces and curates sets to a brief, silver plated over a solid brass base, and offers engraving and personalisation. Ask about timing when you order.
Where exactly is the shop?
At 14 Tamarind Lane, Kolkata: just south of the the lake apartments, a short ride from the park, the park and the avenue.
What are the opening hours?
Open 11 am to 8 pm. Coming a long way? Ring +91 00000 00000 first; the same number answers on WhatsApp.
Do you deliver?
Yes. Delivery can be arranged when you place your order; settle the details on the phone or at the counter.
Do gifts come boxed?
Many pieces come in lined presentation boxes, as the shop's own photographs on this site show. Ask at the counter which pieces are boxed when you buy.
Something else? Call the shop or send a WhatsApp message.