Continental silver, also known as European silver, refers to the many non-sterling silver grades that were used across continental Europe, and does not confirm to the English Sterling standard of purity.

 

When a malleable metal is shaped by hammering from the reverse side to create a design in low relief, this is called repoussé (embossed pieces are the opposite).  This technique is ancient and has been used the world over.  Metals soft enough for use for repoussé include gold, silver, copper and alloys such as bronze. Very simple tools are employed, yet there is allowance for tremendous diversity of expression.