The Sterling – Stieff mark appears on silver items crafted by The Stieff Company, a respected American silversmith based in Baltimore, Maryland. The word “Sterling” confirms the item is made of genuine sterling silver, while “Stieff” identifies the maker. Stieff was well known for its ornate repoussé work and high-quality hand-chased patterns, especially in flatware and hollowware. This mark assures both the material and craftsmanship quality, making it a key identifier for collectors and appraisers of traditional American silver.