Silver tray 925 silver gold-plated oval

An oval tray made of 925 sterling silver, showcasing three worlds on one surface: a mirror-polished silver center, a warm, gold-plated frame with baroque ornaments, and the dark contours of niello that define the gold's intricate patterns. An object for a room that is invited to be still for a moment.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver (solid)
• Surface: high-polish silver center + galvanic gold plating (0.5 microns)
• Decoration: engraved baroque ornaments, chasing, niello inlays
• Weight: approx. 975 g
• Dimensions: approx. 41.5 x 28 cm (L415 x W280 x H10 mm), oval
• Outer rim: structured bead pattern, chased
• Fineness: 925 sterling silver
• Engraving/personalization possible upon review

Material and Craftsmanship

This oval silver tray is a composition of three clearly defined zones. The central area belongs to light: polished 925 sterling silver brought to a mirror finish, without engraving or ornamentation. This blank space is intentional—it reflects glasses, decanters, and light, making the room feel more expansive. The frame is the opposite: dense, warm, and animated. Gold-plated 925 silver, engraved and chased with classic baroque patterns—acanthus leaves, volutes, and floral motifs. Embedded in the engravings is niello, a black-blue, matte inlay that provides the gold with its contour. Without niello, the gold-plated frame would blur into itself; with niello, every vine, leaf, and volute gains a clear definition. The edge is finished with a structured outer border featuring a chased bead pattern—a classic signature of Russian silversmithing. The 0.5-micron galvanic gold plating is the final step: it is applied only after the frame's engraving and chasing are complete, permanently sealing the engraved lines against oxidation. Niello itself is one of the oldest finishing techniques in goldsmithing—its history spans over 3,000 years and remains vibrant in the Russian silversmithing tradition to this day. Weighing approx. 975 g, the tray has a palpable, substantial feel—solid sterling silver from surface to base, no lightweight construction.

Usage and Occasions

In a private bar or lounge, the tray carries decanters and glasses, while the polished center reflects the light and colors of the contents. In a formal reception room, it serves as an independent object even without contents—on a console table, a sideboard, or a dark desk. Made of 925 sterling silver with niello inlays and galvanic gold plating, the tray is fully functional for serving. As a gift, it is suitable for corporate anniversaries, honoring a retiring executive, weddings, or silver wedding anniversaries—an object one displays, exhibits, and keeps.

Engraving and SilberVerse Card

A personal engraving—a name, date, dedication, or monogram—can be added to the polished center surface upon review. Upon request, we include a personalized SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm)—individually designed to suit the occasion, free of charge.

Care

A soft silver polishing cloth is suitable for the polished silver center. Clean the gold-plated areas with a soft, slightly damp cloth. Chlorine-based cleaners, dishwasher use, and silver dip solutions should be avoided. With regular care, the contrasts between the gold-plated frame and the niello will become deeper and more pronounced over time.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which crafting techniques were used for this tray?
A solid 925 sterling silver base, engraving of the ornaments, chasing for three-dimensional depth, niello inlay in the engraved recesses, as well as galvanic gold plating (0.5 microns) of the frame and high-gloss polishing of the center area with a chased bead pattern border.

What does 0.5-micron gold plating mean—how durable is it?
Galvanic gold plating with a layer thickness of 0.5 microns denotes a gold layer permanently bonded to the silver base. With proper care, this gold plating lasts for many decades, additionally protected by the niello in the ornamental lines.

Is the tray suitable for serving?
Yes. The tray is made of 925 sterling silver with fired niello inlays and galvanic gold plating. It is suitable for cold food and drinks as well as the presentation of glasses and decanters.

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