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Virginia Pewtersmith produces Christmas ornaments, chess sets, pewter-decorated glassware and other custom designed products.
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Let’s face it. There is something special about handcrafted items. Whether holiday decorations or gifts, few things are more novel than those made by hand.
Jim Vanderwerff, owner of Virginia Pewtersmith, takes great pride in a rich tradition of craftsmanship that spans four generations of family owners. Located in the Gallery Shops at Lightfoot, the store offers unique pewter gifts and ornaments.
The popularity of pewter traces back to early colonial times, as newly arrived colonists brought the malleable alloy from England. Considered to be somewhat of a luxury item, by 1610, pewter made its first appearance here in Jamestown.
Pewter contains mostly tin, along with traces of copper, antimony or other hard metals. This keeps it at a price point significantly less than gold or even silver.
“Old pewter contained lead,” said Vanderwerff. “These days it’s lead-free.”
Inside the store, customers will find an array of keepsake and unique treasures. Each year, as the holidays approach, there is a limited edition offering. While the angel ornaments festooned with a bright red ribbon will always be popular, what will commemorate 2020?
“We are tossing around a few ideas,” Vanderwerff said. “One being a Santa with a face mask.”
Lillian has spent 30 Christmases in Williamsburg, so she was especially excited to write about this family-owned and operated business, which enjoys a storied past in the Historic Triangle.
757-378-5658 · virginiapewtersmith.com
