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

The Astra Classic teacup combines two materials that have long complemented each other in Russian table culture: fine porcelain for the pure taste of tea and a frosted 925 silver setting with niello ornamentation and gilded accents for aesthetics. The porcelain retains heat and imparts no taste of its own, while the silver setting protects the delicate material and features a hand-engraved floral band that wraps around the cup. At 130 ml, it is perfectly sized for a mindful cup of tea.

At a glance

• Material: porcelain (insert), 925 sterling silver (setting) with gold plating and niello inlays
• Silver surface: frosted/satin-finished
• Ornaments: hand-engraved floral band in niello black, all-around
• Gilding: handle, base, and wavy rim at the porcelain/silver transition
• Porcelain: white, with vertical grooves at the top, smooth at the bottom
• Dimensions: approx. D82 × W92 × H67 mm
• Capacity: approx. 130 ml
• Weight of silver part: approx. 56 g
• Origin: Russia, SevChern
• Scope of delivery: Teacup with porcelain insert, gift box
• Engraving service: upon 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 uncoated metal — at the same time, it allows the color of the tea to be seen, which plays a role in the tea ceremony. The silver setting protects the delicate porcelain from breakage and carries the actual design element: a delicate, hand-engraved floral band in niello black, which wraps around the cup. The niello compound is inlaid into the engraving, fired, and polished until a velvety black contrast is created. A gilded, wavy rim finishes the transition between the porcelain and the silver setting — the wavy shape echoes the organic design language of the flowers. The handle and base are also gilded; the handle is classically curved and shaped so that the fingers do not come into contact with the hot porcelain when drinking.

Use and occasions

This teacup is part of the Astra collection and harmonizes with the teapot, sugar bowl, and milk jug from the same line — all silver parts feature the same floral niello pattern with gilded accents. With a capacity of 130 ml, it is intended for a conscious tea moment, not for a hasty coffee on the go. As a gift, it suits people who do not just drink tea, but celebrate it: for weddings, as an anniversary gift, or for tea lovers who appreciate the combination of material and craftsmanship. As a single piece, it can be supplemented with other parts of the Astra collection at any time later.

Engraving and SilberVerse card

Personalization is possible upon request — the engraving is done on the gilded base of the silver setting and is discreetly placed so that the floral design remains untouched. Please inform us of your engraving request when placing your order. Upon request, we can also include a personalized SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm) — individually designed, suitable for the occasion, and currently free of charge.

Care

The porcelain is dishwasher safe, but for the entire cup, we recommend hand washing to protect the frosted silver setting with its niello inlays and gilding. After use, rinse with warm water, with mild detergent if necessary, and dry with a soft cloth. A special silver polishing cloth is suitable for the silver setting — do not use aggressive cleaning agents or abrasive cleaners, as these can attack niello inlays and gilding. If the porcelain insert is ever damaged, it can be replaced if necessary, while the silver setting is preserved — please contact us for this.

Frequently asked questions

Why porcelain inside and silver outside?
Porcelain is taste-neutral and heat-resistant; it retains heat longer than pure metal and shows the color of the tea. The silver setting protects the porcelain from breakage and carries the decorative niello ornament — a combination with a long tradition in Russian tea culture.

Does the teacup match other parts of the Astra collection?
Yes. It features the same floral niello pattern as the teapot, sugar bowl, and milk jug from the Astra line and can be combined with these pieces.

Can I put the cup in the dishwasher?
The porcelain is dishwasher safe, but for the silver setting with niello inlays and gilding, we consistently recommend hand washing to maintain its shine and contrast.

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You can find more items for a festively set table under Table Silver & Silverware. For suitable gift ideas, also check out our Gift Ideas.