Buying Zanjan silver filigree (malileh)

What to look for

• Fine, evenly twisted wire
• Clean solder joints without blobs
• Symmetry without casting seams
• Hallmark or purity stamp

Common objects

Jewellery, sugar bowls, tea glass holders, decorative boxes and trays.

Care

Store in an airtight bag with anti-tarnish strips. Clean only with soft silver cloths — dips can clog the openwork.

A note on this guide

This is a general introduction written by the CraftPersia editorial team and has not yet been reviewed by a specialist. Workshop practice varies between towns and families; treat dates and figures as approximate and confirm details with makers, museums or published scholarship before relying on them.