Yes, there are established guidelines for table setting and proper etiquette at formal British dinner parties. While it may vary depending on the occasion and region, the following is a general outline of how you can differentiate between different types of forks, spoons, and other utensils:
1. Salad Fork: Usually, the salad fork is smaller than the main dish fork and has slightly broader tines. It may be placed to the left of the main dish fork.
2. Main Dish Fork: This is the standard fork used for the main course. It is larger than the salad fork and is placed closest to the plate on the left side.
3. Soup Spoon: The soup spoon is usually larger than the teaspoon and has a rounded bowl shape. It is placed to the right of the main dish knife.
4. Teaspoon: The teaspoon is used for stirring tea or coffee and is typically smaller in size. It may be placed above the plate or to the right of the soup spoon.
5. Dessert Spoon and Fork: These utensils are used for dessert. The dessert spoon is placed above the plate with the handle pointing to the right, while the dessert fork is placed below the plate with the handle pointing to the left.
6. Fish Fork and Knife (if applicable): In more formal settings or multi-course meals, there might be specific utensils for the fish course. The fish fork will have a slightly curved shape, and the knife might have a special design for serving fish.
7. Butter Knife: The butter knife is usually smaller than the main dish knife and is placed on the bread plate or to the side of the dinner plate.
These are general guidelines, and the table setting may vary depending on the formality of the occasion. If you're attending a formal British dinner party, it's a good idea to familiarize yourself with proper table setting and dining etiquette. There are various etiquette books and online resources that can help you understand the specifics of British dining traditions and the appropriate use of utensils in different situations. Some classic books on dining etiquette include "Emily Post's Etiquette" and "Debrett's Guide to Etiquette and Modern Manners." Additionally, you can find plenty of online resources that cover British table manners and formal dinner etiquette.