Tea glass holder with tea glass

Tea glass holder made of 925 silver — the Russian way to enjoy tea

The podstakannik has been an integral part of Russian tea culture for over 150 years. The solid silver holder encloses a finely cut crystal glass, protecting the hand from the heat and providing a secure grip. Our collection features nine tea glass holders crafted from 925 sterling silver—some embellished with niello decoration and gilding.

From samovar to long-distance train — history of the podstakannik

Originally designed as a practical accessory for the samovar, the tea glass holder became a standard feature of Russian railway carriages in the 19th century. Even today, Trans-Siberian Railway trains serve tea in podstakanniks. This piece of Russian everyday culture uniquely combines function and aesthetics—making every tea ceremony a special experience.

Material & Care

Each tea glass holder is made of 925 sterling silver. The crystal glass is removable and can be cleaned separately. The silver holder is best cared for with a soft silver polishing cloth. Avoid harsh cleaning agents—especially on pieces with niello decoration or gilding, as these surfaces are more delicate. With normal use and care, these pieces will last a lifetime.

Occasions & Gift Ideas

A sterling silver teacup holder makes a suitable gift for many occasions: birthdays, anniversaries, weddings , or as a thoughtful present for collectors and tea enthusiasts. Podstakanniks are especially popular as gifts for people who feel connected to Russian culture—or who simply enjoy drinking tea in a unique way.

Discover more tea & coffee collections

Complete your Podstakannik with matching silver accessories: Discover our silver tea strainers , browse the collection of coffee and tea sets with niello , or find other drinking vessels among our coffee and tea cups .

Frequently asked questions about silver tea glass holders

What is a Podstakannik?
A podstakannik is a traditional Russian tea glass holder. It encloses a glass, protects the hand from heat, and also serves as a decorative element of Russian tea culture.

Can I replace the crystal glass in the tea glass holder?
Yes, the crystal glass is removable. It can be cleaned separately or replaced if necessary.

Are the tea glass holders suitable for daily use?
Yes. 925 sterling silver is robust enough for regular use. With proper care, the holders will remain beautiful for generations.

What does Niello decoration mean?
Niello is a traditional silver-plating technique in which a dark alloy is incorporated into engraved patterns. The result is high-contrast, detailed ornamentation on the silver surface.

Can I have a personal engraving added?
Yes, personalized engraving is available upon request. Please contact us with your desired text.