Among Links of London’s most sentimental and rare creations is the sterling silver first birthday candle holder, a small but meaningful piece once offered as part of the brand’s baby and christening collection. This vintage 2007 example combines elegance with innocence, featuring a playful sitting teddy bear charm and a birthday candle cup, both mounted on a polished round base.

Design Overview

Crafted entirely in sterling silver (925), the piece consists of a 26mm diameter circular disc, only 1mm thick, with an off-centre candle cup (9mm outer diameter, 5.5mm internal) designed to fit a traditional birthday cake candle. Alongside it sits a sculptural teddy bear in a relaxed pose — 17mm high, 12mm wide, and 9mm thick — adding a playful element that evokes childhood nostalgia.

The charm of this item lies in its purpose and detail. It was created not just as a decoration, but as a functional birthday accessory that could be placed on a child’s birthday cake or displayed in a nursery. With its sweet proportions and meaningful symbolism, the piece speaks to celebration, love, and memory.

Hallmarks and Authenticity

Fully hallmarked by the Edinburgh Assay Office, the piece bears the “LL” Links of London sponsor’s mark and a 2007 date letter — confirming its authenticity and production era. These markings are found on the reverse and underside, as is customary for Links of London silverware from that period.

Links of London’s Baby & Christening Collection

This candle holder was one of several pieces in a broader collection of baby-themed keepsakes offered by Links of London during the late 1990s and 2000s. These included:

• Sterling silver “First Tooth” boxes
• Child-size ID bracelets (including Mr. Happy bangles)
• Silver rattles, trinket boxes, and photo frames

All were designed with high-quality finishes, full hallmarking, and timeless appeal — intended as heirlooms for families and gifts for newborns. The first birthday candle holders were a natural extension of this range, offered by department store stockists like John Lewis and Francis & Gaye in the “Christening Gifts” category.

Restoration and Legacy

Like many vintage Links of London pieces, this candle holder has been professionally restored, including a full clean and polish. Despite minor signs of age, it presents beautifully and is ready for gifting or display once more. Supplied in a vintage oval Links of London box, it captures the brand’s legacy of blending British charm with thoughtful design.

Why It Matters

• Authentic vintage Links of London piece from 2007
• Full UK hallmarking and “LL” sponsor’s mark
• Designed as a keepsake for baby’s first birthday
• Rare collectible from Links’ discontinued nursery range

Whether passed down as a family heirloom or given as a heartfelt gift, the Links of London sterling silver first birthday candle holder remains a shining example of how small objects can carry deep meaning. For collectors and families alike, it offers a lasting link between celebration and memory.