Dessert spoon for children, 925 silver, gold-plated – squirrel

This 925 sterling silver dessert spoon is fully gold-plated and combines two finishing techniques in one piece: The bowl of the spoon features a squirrel in fine gold engraving, framed by floral tendrils. At the end of the handle, it bears a drop-shaped niello flower ornament on both sides – dark lines in the engraved silver that form a high-contrast frame against the warm gold. The motif is crafted at the SevChern manufactory in Veliky Ustyug, Russia, one of the last workshops that still masters niello work of this quality.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, fully gold-plated, niello decoration
• Motif: Squirrel (gold engraving, spoon bowl), flower ornament (niello, handle end)
• Dimensions: Length approx. 16.8 cm, width approx. 3.9 cm
• Weight: approx. 46 g
• Manufacturer: SevChern – Russian niello manufactory
• Fineness: 925 sterling silver
• Scope of delivery: 1 dessert spoon in a gift box
• Note: Dessert spoon format – larger than the children's spoons in the niello series (13 cm)

Material and craftsmanship

The squirrel sits upright in the spoon bowl, its bushy tail curved upwards, holding a nut between its front paws, surrounded by curved floral ornaments. The engraving is executed in fine gold lines and only reveals its depth upon closer inspection. At the end of the handle, there is a drop-shaped niello ornament on both sides: a stylized flower with leaves and tendrils in an almond-shaped frame, where the gold plating is deliberately left out. Niello is a black inlay that is melted into previously engraved lines, ground flat, and polished, like ink in silver – one of the oldest finishing techniques for precious metal, with archaeological evidence dating back to antiquity. More than 15 work steps lead from engraving and melting in the niello mass to grinding, polishing, and the final gold plating. Unlike a lacquer, niello bonds firmly with the silver and is therefore durable.

The squirrel – diligence, foresight, and joie de vivre

The squirrel is one of the few animal motifs that are positively perceived in almost all cultures: it stands for diligence, foresight, and wise preparation without losing the joy of the moment. In Slavic folk art, it is also considered a symbol of prosperity and energy – a nimble, clever animal that often appears in fairy tales as a wise advisor. For a gift for a birth, baptism, or the start of school, it carries a message that reaches far beyond the occasion: Be diligent, think ahead, but do not forget the joy of life.

Dessert spoon instead of children's spoon – format and use

At 16.8 cm in length and weighing approx. 46 g, this spoon is significantly larger than the children's spoons in the niello series (13 cm, approx. 23 g). The wider bowl (3.9 cm) is suitable for desserts, yogurt, muesli, or soup – a full-fledged dessert spoon for children of school age and adults. Many families add it to a child's spoon from the same niello series: the smaller one for the early years, the larger one for later. Others deliberately choose it as a representative individual piece.

Occasions and target groups

For birth and baptism, it is a representative silver gift with symbolic power that goes beyond the usual scope. For a first birthday or the start of school, it grows with the child and can be used as daily cutlery from school age onwards. Collectors of Russian silver art appreciate it as a fully gold-plated addition to the niello collection. For grandparents and godparents looking for a gift with cultural depth, this spoon is an alternative to common motifs.

Engraving and SilberVerse card

Due to the niello ornaments on both sides and the full gold plating, this dessert spoon cannot be engraved – there is no free space left without compromising the overall artistic effect. Even without an engraving, you can give the gift a personal touch: upon request, we can include an individual SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm, landscape) – digitally designed, suitable for the occasion and free of charge.

Care

Clean the spoon exclusively by hand with warm water and mild detergent, then dry with a soft cotton cloth. Never use silver dips or aggressive cleaning agents – they can attack the niello filling and permanently damage the dark contrasts. The gold plating does not require any special care but should not be treated with abrasive cleaners. Not dishwasher safe. The included gift box is suitable for storage.

Frequently asked questions

Is this a children's spoon or a dessert spoon?
A dessert spoon. At 16.8 cm long and weighing approx. 46 g, it is significantly larger than the children's spoons in the niello series and is suitable for children of school age and adults.

Can the spoon be engraved?
No. Both sides of the handle end feature niello ornaments, and the bowl features the squirrel motif – an engraving would destroy the overall appearance. As a personal alternative, we offer the free SilberVerse card.

What is niello, and how do I care for the spoon?
Niello is a black inlay that is melted into engraved lines, ground flat, and polished – like ink in silver. The technique has been used since antiquity. Clean the spoon after use with warm water and mild detergent.

You might also be interested in: Further pieces can be found under Gifts for Birth and Gifts for Baptism.