The term “spoon” originates from the Old English word spon, meaning ‘a chip of wood’.

The earliest spoons were probably shells or stones used for scooping food.

Ancient Romans used spoons called cochlearia, which were often crafted from bronze or silver.

Spoons became common eating utensils in Europe much later than knives.

Viking-era spoons were frequently made from cow horn.

The modern round-bowled spoon shape became standardized during the 18th century.

A “spoon” is one of the oldest units of household measurement.

A teaspoon’s measurement varies slightly between different countries.

Some spoons from Tudor England featured tiny religious figures carved into the tops of their handles.

Preserved examples of ancient Egyptian spoons include those made from ivory, flint, slate, and wood, many carved with religious symbols.

In China’s Shang dynasty, spoons were created from bone.

Spoons are mentioned in the King James Bible: in the Book of Exodus, God instructs Moses to make gold spoons for the Tabernacle.

Caviar spoons are traditionally made from mother-of-pearl to prevent altering the delicate flavor.