While both cutlery and silverware are types of utensils used for eating, they’re unique categories that embody different construction materials and are used for different occasions. Cutlery, which is another name for flatware, includes a wide assortment of eating utensils that are usually made from stainless steel or another durable metal. Cutlery generally includes knives, forks, and spoons which are used for cutting, piercing, and transporting food to your mouth. Durable and functional, cutlery is perfect for casual, everyday use.
Unlike cutlery, which can be made from a variety of different materials, silverware specifically refers to eating utensils fashioned from sterling silver or silver-plated materials. Thanks to its high-end construction, silverware is often associated with occasion dining. While cutlery is often plain or simple in appearance, silverware often showcases handles with ornate designs. It is also likely to be heavier in weight than cutlery. Since it’s made of silver, which has a high market value, silverware also tends to be much more expensive than cutlery. Likewise, silverware is often a heirloom item, passed down from generation to generation in families.