The best pewter vase will be well made from quality pewter, fit your needs, and be priced appropriately for your budget. It should also fit with your personal style and the style of the decor in the area where it will be used. There are many different types and sizes of vase in a wide range of prices. They are available in shops and boutiques as well as online and through catalogs.
Before you start shopping, decide how much money you are willing to spend on a pewter vase. There's no need to spend a lot of money on a vase unless you have a large budget and find a vase that you absolutely love and that happens to be high priced. Remember that out of your whole household, this is only one accessory out of the dozens you will need. Budget accordingly, and make a note of the amount you decide is appropriate.
Next, consider what your overall needs are. If you're looking for a vase which can handle large bouquets of long-stemmed flowers, you'll need a tall vase with a wide mouth. If you simply want an accent piece for buffet table or mantle, you probably want a small one. Along with your budgeted amount, make a note concerning how and where you intend to use the vase and the approximate size you will need.
Finally, consider your overall style and decor. Verbalize your style with words to describe the aesthetic. The words can be specific, like "traditional, elegant, and simple" or symbolic like, "calm, the night sky, blue." When you're shopping, try to verbalize the qualities of the vases you consider to see if there is similarity between the words you use to describe your own style and the words you use to describe the vase. This will help you decide if a vase represents your own aesthetic if you are unsure.
Once you have your budget amount, your needs, and your description, it is time to start shopping. There's no substitute for seeing a pewter vase in person to judge whether it meets your expectations, but it's not always possible to find what you need in brick and mortar stores. If you must shop online, make sure that the company has a generous return policy and provides enough time for you to ship an item back if necessary. Check carefully for restocking fees, which deduct a percentage of the price of the item from your reimbursement.
When you find a pewter vase that you like, inspect it for good craftsmanship. The seams, which are common along the base, at handles, or on the outside of the vase should be very faint or not visible at all. Pewter must be cast in a mold to be formed, and if seams are visible the craftsman or machine didn't do a good job removing excess material.
Pewter is also cut on a lathe to create the detailing. Check for even, symmetrical cuts, especially if the piece is handmade. All parts should be attached firmly.
The vase should not wobble. It should sit steadily on a flat surface. If a piece does not appear to be well put together, pass on it. It is better to keep looking than to buy a pewter vase which needs repairs after a few uses.