Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Q: What is the history of the Spode Christmas Tree pattern?

Spode, the English pottery in Stoke-on-Trent that has made china since 1770, introduced the Christmas Tree pattern in 1938. Spode’s U.S. sales agent, Sydney Thompson, asked for a new Christmas design for American customers, and designer Harold Holdway created the decorated tree with gifts beneath it. Orders came in right away, and the pattern grew into full dinnerware services over the following years. Replacements, Ltd. reports it as their top-selling china pattern from 1985 to 2019. For more, see our post on Spode Christmas Tree china: https://eclectiquas.com/blogs/news/spode-christmas-tree-china-a-holiday-classic

Q: What part of the Spode Christmas Tree plate is this pendant made from?

This pendant features the Santa Claus from the top of the tree, cut from a vintage Spode Christmas Tree plate and set in sterling silver. As the story goes, designer Harold Holdway had never seen an American-style Christmas tree when Spode asked him for a 1938 design for the U.S. market. Unsure what belonged at the top, he chose Santa over the usual star or angel. Pieces made from other parts of the tree, along with other Christmas china patterns can be found in our Christmas china jewelry collection.

Q: Why does this Spode Christmas Tree Santa necklace make such a great Christmas present or holiday gift?

For anyone who grew up with Spode Christmas Tree on the holiday table every year, this Santa necklace brings back the nostalgia of family Christmases and the special people gathered around that table. It’s a unique gift for a Spode Christmas Tree collector, a thoughtful hostess gift for whoever is hosting the holiday meal, and a perfect piece to wear to a Christmas tea, a luncheon, or a holiday party. Many people are unaware that broken china jewelry exists, so unwrapping a handmade china necklace made from the Spode Christmas Tree china is a delightful surprise, and a gift she will be excited to wear year after year.