Souvenir Egg in 925 Silver Chalice — Nephrite Egg, Niello, Gemstones

A chalice made of 925 sterling silver with a domed lid — and inside, a green natural stone egg with a gold Orthodox cross. This piece combines three materials in one object: the silver chalice with dense niello ornamentation and gilding, the green natural stone with its natural veining, and the gold cross as a symbol of faith. Closed, it looks like a small cathedral; opened, the chalice reveals its secret — a decorative and devotional piece, not intended for everyday use.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver with niello and gilding
• Natural stone egg: green semi-precious stone with a gold Orthodox cross
• Gemstones: green cabochons on the stem, base, and lid finial
• Shape: chalice with domed lid; stone egg rests in the gilded cup
• Ornament: leaf and diamond patterns in niello, silver, and gold
• Dimensions: Ø 44.2 x H 125.6 mm
• Weight: approx. 86 g (without stone egg)

Materials and craftsmanship

The silver chalice holding the natural stone egg features two ornamental sections: a wide band at the top with dense leaf decoration in niello, silver, and gold, and a diamond pattern below with gilded fields. The slender stem bears gilded flowers set with green cabochons, echoing the color of the natural stone egg. The base features a variation of the ornament. The domed lid mirrors the cup: the same leaf and diamond patterns, topped with a round finial set with a green stone. At the center of the chalice lies an egg made of green natural stone — smoothly polished, with natural veining unique to each stone. The stone is topped with a finely crafted gold Orthodox cross, with small green stones at its ends.

Uses and occasions

This set is intended as a decorative and devotional piece, not for everyday use. The natural stone egg with its cross makes a fitting gift for Easter, a baptism, or a First Communion — for a godmother, priest, or parents. This piece also makes a distinctive addition for collectors who already own other souvenir eggs from the collection, thanks to its combination of silver, niello ornamentation, and natural stone. As a gift for a milestone birthday, it is well suited to someone who appreciates both faith and craftsmanship.

Care

Clean the silver chalice with a soft silver-polishing cloth. For stubborn marks, use a mild silver polish on the polished silver surfaces. The natural stone egg can be gently wiped with a soft, dry cloth — avoid getting moisture directly on the stone or the gold cross. Do not use immersion baths, abrasive cleaners, or a dishwasher.

Frequently asked questions

What stone is the green egg made of?

The egg is carved from a green natural stone — its deep, dark green color and smooth surface suggest nephrite or a related semi-precious stone. Each egg has unique veining.

Can the egg be removed from the chalice?

Yes, the stone egg rests loosely in the gilded cup and can be removed.

What are the green stones on the stem and lid?

They are green cabochons set in the gilded flowers on the stem and in the lid finial. They echo the color of the natural stone egg and give the piece a harmonious color palette.

You might also be interested in

You can find more souvenir eggs and decorative pieces made of 925 silver in our home accessories. For other occasions and recipients, take a look at our gift ideas in 925 sterling silver.