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

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

At a Glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver with ornamentation in blue, silver, and gold
• Natural stone egg: green semi-precious stone with a golden Orthodox cross
• Gemstones: green cabochons on stem, base, and lid finial
• Shape: Chalice with domed lid, stone egg lies in gilded cup
• Ornamentation: Leaf and rhombus pattern in blue, silver, and gold
• Dimensions: Ø 44.2 x H 125.6 mm
• Weight: approx. 86 g (without stone egg)

Material and Workmanship

The silver chalice, which holds the natural stone egg, features two ornamental zones: at the top, a broad band with dense leaf decor in blue, silver, and gold, and below it, a rhombus pattern with gilded fields. The stem is slender and adorned with gilded blossoms featuring green cabochon stones that echo the color of the natural stone egg. The ornamentation is repeated in a variation at the base. The domed lid mirrors the cup: the same leaf and rhombus pattern, with a round finial topped with a green stone. At the center of the chalice lies an egg of green natural stone — smoothly polished, with a natural grain that is unique to each stone. A golden, filigreed Orthodox cross with small green stones at its ends sits atop the stone.

Use and Occasions

This ensemble is intended as a decorative and devotional piece, not as an item for use. The natural stone egg with a cross is suitable as a gift for Easter, baptism, or communion — for godmothers, priests, or parents. For collectors who already own other souvenir eggs from the collection, this piece, with its combination of silver, enamel ornamentation, and natural stone, offers a unique addition. As a gift for a milestone birthday, it is perfect for people who appreciate both faith and craftsmanship.

Care

Clean the silver chalice with a soft silver polishing cloth. For stubborn areas, a mild silver polish applied to the polished silver surfaces is suitable. The natural stone egg can be carefully wiped with a soft, dry cloth — avoid moisture directly on the stone and the golden cross. Do not use immersion baths, abrasive cleaners, or a dishwasher.

Frequently Asked Questions

What kind of 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 a unique grain.

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?

Green cabochon stones, set into the gilded blossoms on the stem and the lid finial. They echo the color of the natural stone egg and give the piece a cohesive color palette.

You Might Also Be Interested In

Further souvenir eggs and decorative pieces made of 925 silver can be found in our Home Accessories. For other occasions and recipients, it's also worth taking a look at our Gift Ideas in 925 Sterling Silver.