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 made of green natural stone with a golden Orthodox cross awaits. This piece combines three worlds in one object: the silver chalice with its intricate niello hand-engraving and gilding, the natural stone with its deep green color, and the golden cross as a symbol of faith. When closed, it looks like a small cathedral — the domed lid with leaf niello and a diamond pattern, topped with a green stone as a finial. When opened, the chalice reveals its secret: the egg rests in the gilded cup, the cross points upwards, and the green stones on the stem and base, together with the egg, form a harmonious color family. 125.6 mm high, approx. 86 g — a devotional set that unites faith, stone, and silver.

The green egg — natural stone with a golden cross

At the center of this piece is an egg made of green natural stone — smoothly polished, deep dark green, heavy in the hand. The surface of the stone has a natural grain that is unique to each egg. A golden Orthodox cross sits on the stone — intricately crafted, with small green stones at its ends. The cross transforms the natural stone from a mineral into a devotional piece: an egg you can hold in your hand to feel the cross between your fingers, to hold the cool stone against your skin.

The stone egg is not merely decoration — it is the actual gift. The silver chalice is its throne, the domed lid its protection. Together, they form a set that ties into the tradition of Russian Easter eggs: a precious egg, hidden in an artistic container. Only here, enamel and mechanics don't play the main role, but rather stone and silver.

The Chalice — Niello Ornamentation on Every Surface

The silver chalice holding the egg is itself a work of art. The cup (the body of the chalice) features two ornamental zones: a wide band at the top with dense leaf niello in black and gold, below which is a diamond pattern with gilded fields. The stem is slender and adorned with gilded blossoms featuring green cabochon stones — subtle accents that echo the color of the natural stone egg. At the base, the niello ornament is repeated in a unique variation, and golden bands frame every transition.

The domed lid is a mirror image of the cup: the same leaf niello, the same diamond pattern, topped with a round finial with a green stone. When the lid is in place, the chalice and lid merge into a single unit — the ornamentation flows seamlessly from the foot over the stem to the cup to the lid. No break, no interruption. A cohesive piece that appears to be cast from a single mold.

Three Materials — One Story

What sets this piece apart from the other souvenir eggs in the collection: it brings together three materials rarely united in one object. The 925 sterling silver with niello hand-engraving — that is the language of SevChern, the signature from Veliky Ustyug. The gilding that gives warmth to the silver. And the green natural stone that brings a whole different world: the world of minerals, of the earth, of what has grown. Silver is cast and engraved, gold is applied — but the stone has grown, millions of years old. You feel this age when you hold the egg in your hand.

For what occasions this set is suitable

Easter: A stone egg with a cross in a silver chalice — the most noble form of an Easter gift. In the tradition of Russian Easter eggs, but with its own material character.

Baptism and Communion: The cross on the egg and the chalice as a shape directly connect this piece to faith. A gift for the godmother, the priest, or the parents.

Collectors: Those who already own the XB Easter Egg, the Precious Miracle, or the George Egg will find here the piece with the most unusual mix of materials: silver, gold, and natural stone in one object.

Milestone Birthday: For someone who appreciates faith and craftsmanship — a gift that sits on the mantelpiece and serves as a daily reminder. Further ideas: Gifts for 60th Birthday.

Frequently Asked Questions about the Souvenir Egg in the Silver Chalice

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 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. It feels good in the hand and can be used as an independent devotional piece.

What are the green stones on the stem and lid?
Green cabochon stones set into the gilded blossoms and the lid finial. They pick up the color of the natural stone egg and give the entire piece a cohesive color family.

What other souvenir eggs are available?
7 pieces in the collection: Easter Egg XB, this Chalice Egg, Precious Miracle, Garnet Egg, George Egg, Orthodox Crown.

Is engraving possible?
Upon request — on the base of the chalice. Free SilverVerse card with engraving.