Silver tray 925 silver gold-plated Niello

Six leaf-shaped medallions in deep niello black float on a matte silver background, connected by thin golden tendrils: This round tray in 925 sterling silver relies on a more open principle than classic niello bands — the ornaments do not fill the surface, they rest upon it.

At a glance

• Diameter: 202 mm
• Height: 12 mm
• Weight: approx. 345 g
• Material: 925 sterling silver with electrolytic gilding and niello
• Gilding thickness: 0.5 microns
• Surface: matte silver, brushed (not high-gloss)
• Niello motifs: 6 leaf-shaped medallions with ornamental interior filling, encircling
• Gilded elements: outer rim, connecting tendrils between the medallions, inner dividing ring
• Fineness: 925 sterling silver
• Gift box: included

Material and workmanship

The matte silver, finely brushed surface remains deliberately expansive and open — no encircling band, no dense ornament. Instead, six almond-shaped cartouches of deep niello black are positioned at 60-degree intervals, evenly distributed. Each bears its own filling pattern of fine lines and rosettes. Gilded tendrils run between the medallions, connecting the six cartouches like an ornamental thread.

925 sterling silver consists of 92.5% fine silver. The tray is crafted by the SevChern manufactory in Russia. Niello is a black inlay that is melted by hand into the engraved lines, sanded flush, and polished — like ink in silver — firmly anchored in the silver, not applied, and non-removable. The gilding is an electrolytic layer of 0.5 microns on the silver, warm and durable as long as it is not mechanically abraded.

The difference from polished high-gloss silver is more than visual: Matte silver reflects light more calmly and evenly, shows fingerprints and light scratches less clearly, and thereby allows the niello black and warm gold to stand out more strongly.

Usage and occasions

Leaf-shaped medallions are among the oldest forms of decorative metalwork — in Byzantine art as a frame motif, and in 18th and 19th-century Russian silversmithing as a standard repertoire on tea sets, trays, and boxes. For a wedding, this tray is a piece that remains on the shared table long after other gifts have been forgotten. For a housewarming, it stands for hospitality as a tangible promise; for a milestone anniversary or birthday, it carries the weight of the occasion. It is also a quiet, unobtrusive choice as a representative corporate gift.

Engraving and SilberVerse card

Upon review, a personal engraving is possible — SevChern checks each piece individually to determine which form and placement is technically feasible and provides you with concrete suggestions. Additionally, you can choose a SilberVerse card: 15 × 10 cm in landscape format, designed free of charge as a personal addition to your gift.

Care

Hand wash with warm water and mild detergent; a soft cloth is sufficient. No dishwasher, no scouring powder, no silver dip bath. Gently remove tarnish from the silver surface with a silver polishing cloth. The gilded tendrils are sensitive to abrasion — use only light dabbing, no circular motions on gilded areas. The niello itself is resistant to normal care.

Frequently asked questions

What is the difference compared to other silver trays with niello?
This tray features six individual leaf medallions on a matte silver surface, connected by gilded tendrils — not a closed ornamental band. This creates a lighter, more open appearance than densely decorated edges.

Is the surface polished or matte?
Matte, finely brushed. This surface makes the niello and gilding stand out more strongly and is easier to care for in everyday use than polished silver.

Can the tray be engraved?
Yes, after checking. We check on the piece itself which engraving form and placement are possible. Simply order the flat fee for the engraving service along with the tray – you will receive concrete suggestions after your order, and if an engraving is not possible, we will refund the flat fee.

You might also be interested in

Further serving pieces can be found in the Table Silver and Silverware collection. For a wedding or anniversary, our selection of 925 silver gift ideas is also a perfect fit.