Teacup 925 silver with niello – hand engraving and gift box

Some cups just sit on the table. This one stands on a pedestal — and that changes its entire effect. The chalice cup made of 925 sterling silver rises on a conical base, giving it a presence that a flat-bottomed cup cannot achieve. A wide niello floral motif runs as a dark band around the high-polish wall: blossoms, tendrils, and leaves in deep black, topped by a geometric diamond band. 150 grams of silver, 155 ml capacity, a piece that you won't overlook on the table or in the display cabinet.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, high-polish, niello
• Motif: Floral motif, blossoms and tendrils, encircling
• Trim: Geometric diamond niello band at the top
• Capacity: 155 ml
• Diameter: 76 mm
• Width with handle: 100 mm
• Height: 90 mm
• Weight: 150 g
• Shape: Chalice cup on a pedestal, D-handle
• Fineness: 925 sterling silver (92.5% fine silver)
• Engraving: Possible upon review
• Gift box: Included

Material and craftsmanship

The floral motif on this cup follows the classic Russian repertoire of ornaments: sweeping tendrils, fully bloomed flowers, and leaves that wrap organically around the wall. At the top, a geometric diamond band finishes off the niello area — a deliberate transition from the ornamental to the clear, leaving the polished silver rim open. Niello is neither a paint nor a lacquer, but a black inlay that is melted into the engraved lines, sanded flush, and polished — like ink in silver. The result is a clear harmony: the bright polished silver of the wall against the deep matte black of the motif, without gilding or a third element. Every blossom on this cup was engraved into the silver by hand — no two ornaments are exactly alike, because depth and line work are created during the process.

Usage and occasions

The conical base changes how the cup sits on the table and rests in the hand: when placed down, it rises above the tabletop and makes the niello ornamentation visible from all sides; in the hand, the base sits naturally between the fingers. With 155 ml, it is the classic size for an infusion with substance — suitable for black tea, green tea, rooibos, or chai, and the D-handle makes it easy to hold even when filled with hot contents. As a gift, this cup is suitable for weddings, Mother's Day, or birthdays, and for anyone looking for a silver cup that stands out from mass-produced goods — in shape, material, and ornamental density.

Engraving and SilberVerse card

A personal engraving is possible upon review — initials, a date, or a short dedication. Since the wall features the niello motif, we recommend placing the engraving on the base or in a less ornamented area. Upon request, we will also include a personal SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm) — individually designed to suit the occasion and free of charge.

Care

Hand wash only with lukewarm water and mild dish soap — no dishwasher, no ultrasonic cleaner, and no silver dip, as these methods can attack the niello inlay. For the polished silver surfaces, a soft silver polishing cloth is sufficient, which also corrects tarnishing. Store in a dry place, ideally in the included gift box.

Frequently asked questions

Why does this tea cup have a base?
The chalice cup on a pedestal is a shape that has been known in Russian tea sets since the 18th century, but has become rare in everyday life. The base lifts the cup off the table and makes the niello ornamentation visible from all sides.

Is the cup suitable for daily use?
Yes, 925 sterling silver is robust enough for regular use — it is only important to hand wash it, no dishwasher.

What distinguishes this cup from silver-plated tableware?
Silver-plated tableware only has a silver coating over another base metal, which wears off over time. This cup is made of solid 925 sterling silver — the wall, base, and handle throughout.

You might also be interested in

You can find more silver cups and pieces for the festive table under Table Silver & Silverware. For the perfect gift idea for any occasion, also take a look at our Gift Ideas.