Baptismal bowl 925 silver 9x10cm Madrid

When the water flows over your godchild's head, it rests for a moment in this shell — and it is precisely this moment that she will carry with her from then on. The Madrid baptismal shell, made of 925 sterling silver, combines two of the oldest Christian symbols in one piece: the shell as a sign of the journey and the cross as a sign of faith. A gift that is not only beautiful but tells a story.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, polished
• Shape: Shell shape with separate cross motif
• Size: approx. 9 × 10 cm
• Weight: approx. 19 g
• Origin: manufactured in Italy
• Hallmark: 925 (authenticity mark)

You are holding the finest 925 sterling silver, carefully polished to a shine. The curved shell contour forms the body of the bowl, while an independent small cross rises at the upper edge — subtly placed, clearly recognizable, without over-burdening the shape. Weighing approximately 19 g and measuring about 9 × 10 cm, the shell feels pleasant in the hand and never appears delicate, but rather substantial. The 925 hallmark on the back confirms the silver quality according to European standards.

Material and Workmanship

925 sterling silver means: at least 92.5 percent fine silver, the rest an alloy that gives the material hardness and stability — enough to last for generations, and soft enough to form the delicate wave lines of the shell as plastically as you see them here. The shell comes from Italian silver processing, a country with a long tradition in sacred and tableware silver. At SilberKosmos, we see ourselves as curators: We select what is worthy of this occasion and bring it to you — not our own manufacture, but carefully made choices.

Since the Madrid is manufactured in small quantities, there may be a short delivery time depending on demand. Reordering is possible at any time — just contact us if you plan to give the piece as a gift on a specific date.

Use and Occasions

The shell is one of the oldest symbols in Christianity. It recalls the scallop shell, the distinguishing mark of pilgrims on the Camino de Santiago — and the idea that every life's path is a kind of pilgrimage that begins with baptism. In iconography, John the Baptist often draws water over Jesus' head with a shell; this gesture has deeply imprinted itself as an image in Christian baptismal depiction. The cross next to it needs little explanation — it is the central sign of faith, a symbol of remembrance, connection, and hope all at once. Where both signs appear together, as with Madrid, a small, self-contained narrative of faith emerges: the path and the goal, the journey and the steadfastness.

This connection makes the shell a gift that extends beyond the baptism day. It accompanies the ceremony itself — whether infant or adult baptism, celebrated Catholic or Protestant — and thereafter remains in the family as a keepsake. It is equally suitable for name days, communion, or as a forward-looking gift for a birth if the baptism date is already set. Since the shell and cross are gender-neutral, Madrid is suitable for both a girl and a boy.

Engraving and SilberVerse Card

Upon request, the Madrid can be engraved with a name, baptismal date, a monogram, or a short baptismal verse. The smooth surfaces on the back and inner rim are well-suited for this; we would be happy to discuss the exact placement with you before ordering to ensure that the engraving and motif harmonize.

If you choose an engraving, we can include a personalized SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm, landscape) upon request — individually designed for the occasion, child, and godparents, a small unique item, currently free of charge. Just tell us who the card is for and who it's from, and we'll take care of the rest.

Care

After use, simply rinse the shell with lukewarm water and a mild dish soap and rub it dry with a soft cloth. If a slight patina appears over time, a silver polishing cloth will help — when working in the area of the engraving and the cross motif, it is best to avoid pressure. For storage, the included gift box or a velvet pouch is suitable, protected from air and friction. This piece is not suitable for the dishwasher.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does the combination of shell and cross mean? The shell stands for the pilgrimage of life, which begins with baptism, the cross for the faith that accompanies this path. Together, both symbols create a complete small emblem for baptism.

Can the shell be engraved? Yes. The back and smooth inner surfaces can be engraved with a name, baptismal date, monogram, or verse. We will advise you on the appropriate placement before ordering.

Is Madrid also suitable for a Protestant baptism? Yes, the shell is designed to be interdenominational and is suitable for Catholic and Protestant celebrations, for free churches and home baptisms alike.

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You can find more items for baptism in our Baptism Gifts. If you are looking for a suitable addition or a completely different idea, check out our Gift Ideas.