Teacup 925 silver with niello – hand engraving & gift box

Some cups simply sit on the table. This one stands on a foot — and that changes the whole 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 highly polished wall: blossoms, tendrils, and leaves in deep black, topped by a geometric diamond band. 150 grams of silver, 155 ml capacity, a piece that cannot be overlooked either on the table or in the display cabinet.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, highly polished, niello
• Motif: Floral motif, blossoms and tendrils, all around
• Finish: 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 foot, D-handle
• Hallmark: Present
• Engraving: Possible on request
• Gift box: Included

Material and craftsmanship

The floral motif on this cup follows the classic Russian ornamental repertoire: curved tendrils, blooming flowers, and leaves that organically wrap around the wall. At the top, a geometric diamond band concludes the niello area — a conscious transition from the ornamental to the clear, leaving the polished silver opening free. Niello is not a color or lacquer, but a black metal alloy that is melted into engraved depressions and permanently bonded with the silver. The result is a clear duality: the bright polished silver of the wall against the deep matte black of the motif, without gilding or a third element. Each blossom on this cup was hand-engraved into the silver — no two ornaments are exactly alike, as depth and line guidance emerge during the work.

Usage and occasions

The conical foot changes how the cup sits on the table and in the hand: when placed, it rises above the tabletop and makes the niello ornamentation visible from all sides, and in the hand, the base naturally sits 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 handle even 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 personalized engraving is possible on request — initials, a date, or a short dedication. Since the wall carries the niello motif, we recommend engraving on the bottom or in a less ornamented area. Additionally, upon request, we can include a personal SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm) — individually designed, suitable for the occasion, and currently 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 damage the niello inlay. For the polished silver surfaces, a soft silver polishing cloth is sufficient, which also corrects tarnishing. Store dry, preferably in the included gift box.

Frequently Asked Questions

Why does this teacup have a foot?
The chalice cup on a foot is a form known in Russian tea sets since the 18th century, but it has become rare in everyday life. The foot lifts the cup from the table and makes the niello ornamentation visible from all sides.

Is the cup suitable for daily use?
Yes, 925 sterling silver is food-safe and robust enough for regular use — the key is hand washing only, no dishwasher.

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

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 check out our Gift Ideas.