Gift Set “Saint Panteleimon” 925 Silver Niello — Pendant and Spoon in Case

Some gifts are not meant to be worn, but displayed. Some are not eaten, but drunk. And some are not looked at, but touched — as a small ritual every morning. This “Saint Panteleimon” gift set is exactly such a piece: a silver water pendant bearing the image of Saint Great Martyr Panteleimon, patron saint of healers, together with a teaspoon featuring the same symbolism, crafted in genuine niello silver.

At a glance

• Set: Saint Panteleimon water pendant + teaspoon with saint’s image, 2 pieces in a case
• Material: 925 sterling silver with genuine niello silver
• Design: Saint Great Martyr Panteleimon (patron saint of healers) + Orthodox cross
• Total silver weight: approx. 49.4 g (pendant + spoon combined)
• Case: Navy blue, velvet-lined

Material and craftsmanship

The water pendant features an oval medallion with an image of the saint in niello technique on the front and an Orthodox cross with an inscription on the back, joined to a second, smaller round pendant on a delicate silver chain. The teaspoon has a classically curved handle with an oval finial: the front bears an image of Saint Panteleimon in niello, while the back features an Orthodox cross with the Cyrillic inscription “Св. Влмч. Целитель Пантелеимон” (Saint Great Martyr and Healer Panteleimon); the bowl is highly polished for the daily ritual.

What you see on both pieces is genuine niello inlay: a black silver-sulfur compound fused into engraved silver, then filed flat and polished. The black sits flush with the silver, deep and glossy like fresh ink on paper. This niello tradition from Veliky Ustyug has been documented in writing since 1683; the SevChern manufactory continues it to this day. The black niello background makes the silver figure of the saint stand out in relief.

Uses and occasions

Panteleimon was born around 275 in Nicomedia and trained as a physician. He converted to Christianity and treated the poor free of charge. Since then, he has been considered the patron saint of doctors, healers, care workers and all the sick. In the Orthodox Church, he is one of the Fourteen Holy Helpers; his feast day is August 9, and he is among the most venerated saints in Russia.

As a baptism gift, the set is a traditional godparent’s gift in the Orthodox tradition — a piece of silver bearing a saint’s image that becomes a family heirloom over the years. Anyone named “Panteleimon” or “Pantaleon” will especially appreciate this gift on August 9. As a sign of sympathy for someone who has recovered from an illness, this spiritual gesture is also meaningful to recipients who are not practicing Christians. The set also makes a thoughtful professional gift for doctors, care workers and midwives, as well as a gift from a godfather or godmother for a confirmation.

Placing the pendant in a glass of water or a carafe is a centuries-old Russian ritual tradition. This set adds spiritual significance to the time-honored gesture: the pendant bears the image of the patron saint of healers, making the carafe a small home altar for Orthodox families.

Care

925 sterling silver with genuine niello silver: the niello sits flush with the silver and, with normal care, will last for generations. Clean the pendant and spoon by hand only, using warm water, mild dish soap and a soft cloth; never put them in the dishwasher. If the silver surfaces tarnish, a soft silver polishing cloth without abrasive grit will restore their shine without affecting the niello. Do not place the water pendant in hot or acidic water; rinse and dry it thoroughly after use. Wipe dry after use and store in the case.

Frequently asked questions

Who is Saint Panteleimon?

An early Christian physician from Nicomedia who died in 305. He is the patron saint of doctors, healers and the sick, and one of the Fourteen Orthodox Holy Helpers. His feast day is August 9.

Is the niello genuine?

Yes, it is niello silver from Veliky Ustyug, made using the silver-sulfur inlay technique by the SevChern manufactory. Niello is not silver sulfide tarnish, but a fused inlay compound that lasts for generations.

Can the spoon be used every day?

Yes, it is designed for everyday use. The spoon is made of durable 925 sterling silver. Please clean it by hand only; never put it in the dishwasher.

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