Teacup Porcelain 925 Silver Niello | Astra Classic Gold | 130ml

The Astra Gold teacup is the most luxurious interpretation of Russian tea culture within the Astra collection: the finest porcelain for tea enjoyment and a fully gilded 925 silver setting with niello art for a special presentation. What distinguishes this variant from the Astra Classic is revealed in the details – the V-shaped rim is fully polished gilded, a single flower in the niello band stands out in radiant gold, and both the handle and base are polished gilded. With a capacity of 130 ml, the cup is perfectly sized for a classic tea ceremony.

At a glance

• Material: White porcelain (insert), 925 sterling silver setting, fully gilded, with niello inlays
• Silver surface: matted/satinized, with polished gilded rim, handle, and base
• Ornaments: hand-engraved floral band in deep niello black with a gilded accent flower
• Dimensions: approx. Ø 82 × W 103 × H 66 mm
• Capacity: approx. 130 ml
• Silver weight: approx. 65 g
• Hallmark: Original hallmarking on the base
• Scope of delivery: Teacup with porcelain insert, gift box
• Engraving service: Personalization possible on request (on the base)

Material and workmanship

Why porcelain inside and silver outside? Porcelain is taste-neutral, heat-resistant, and retains heat longer than glass or metal, while also allowing the color of the tea to be seen – an important part of the tea ceremony. The silver setting protects the delicate porcelain from breakage and carries the artistic side of the cup: a hand-engraved floral band in deep niello black, from which a single flower stands out in radiant gold. This selective gilding is technically challenging – after niello engraving, the relevant flower is covered with a protective layer before the niello paste is applied to the other engravings; then the protective layer is removed, and the flower is gilded separately. The V-shaped rim, the handle, and the base are additionally fully polished gilded – a difference from the Astra Classic, where only individual elements are gilded. The porcelain has vertical grooves in the upper area, which also control heat dissipation, and sits securely in the setting in the lower, smooth part.

Use and occasions

With 130 ml, the Astra Gold teacup is designed for a classic cup of tea – not too big, not too small, made for a mindful tea moment. It is suitable for special occasions such as weddings, golden anniversaries, or jubilees, as well as a gift for collectors of Russian silver art who value the combination of porcelain, niello, and selective gilding. Together with the teapot, sugar bowl, and milk jug from the Astra Classic collection, a harmonious tea set can be created, in which the Astra Gold cups stand out as a special element.

Engraving and SilberVerse Card

Personalization is possible on request on the base – contact us with your engraving wish before ordering. Additionally, we offer the SilberVerse card: a photo in 15 × 10 cm format (landscape), individually designed and currently free of charge.

Care

Even though porcelain is dishwasher-safe, we recommend hand washing the entire cup to protect the polished gilded elements. After use, rinse with warm water, if necessary with mild detergent, and dry with a soft, lint-free cloth. The polished gilding of the rim, handle, and base can be gently polished with a special silver polishing cloth – proceed carefully to avoid scratching the polished surface. Never use aggressive cleaning agents or coarse sponges. If the porcelain breaks, the insert can be replaced, while the silver setting with its gilding remains – feel free to contact us.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between Astra Gold and Astra Classic?
The Astra Gold has significantly more gilding: The V-shaped rim is fully polished gilded, the handle and base are polished gilded instead of matte gilded, and a single flower in the niello band is additionally accented in gold. Furthermore, the setting contains slightly more silver, approx. 65 g, than the Classic variant.

Does the Astra Gold teacup match the Astra Classic teapot and sugar bowl?
Yes. The gilded accent flower in the niello band picks up the gilded flowers of the Astra Classic teapot and sugar bowl, and all silver parts are made of 925 sterling silver with a matted surface.

How do I care for the polished gilded elements?
With the utmost care: rinse with warm water and mild detergent after use, dry with a soft, lint-free cloth, and gently polish with a silver polishing cloth if necessary. Never put it in the dishwasher.

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Discover more parts of the Astra collection in our Table Silver & Silverware collection. For the right occasion idea, take a look at our Gift Ideas.