Milk jug, 925 sterling silver, gold-plated with niello | Astra Classic | 220 ml

Astra Classic milk jug – Where elegance meets Russian craftsmanship

The Astra Classic milk jug, crafted from 925 sterling silver, is far more than just a vessel for milk or cream – it is a masterpiece of Russian craftsmanship that transforms the beauty of nature into timeless form. Hand-engraved floral ornaments twine across the matte silver surface, while black niello inlays bring the interplay of light and shadow to life. A central flower is highlighted in gold – a deliberate accent that draws the eye and underscores the delicate handwork.

In the time-honored SevChern manufactory, which has perfected the art of niello for over a century, each milk jug is meticulously handcrafted. The fully gilded rim and interior, the elegantly curved spout, and the harmonious handle speak of a time when patience, precision, and dedication to craftsmanship were paramount. With a capacity of 220 ml, the jug is perfectly sized for milk with tea, cream with coffee, or as a stylish addition to your Astra tea set.

Floral Niello Art – The perfect harmony with teapot and sugar bowl

The milk jug features the same floral masterpiece as the Astra Classic teapot and sugar bowl: hand-engraved blossoms and leaves, which have symbolized growth, beauty, and permanence in Russian silversmithing for centuries. The central flower is particularly striking, its radiant gold contrasting with the black niello ornamentation. This contrast is not accidental, but a deliberate composition – it creates depth and lends the jug a dynamic elegance that reveals different facets depending on the light.

The jug's bulbous shape is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally sophisticated: the wide base ensures stability, while the tapered body facilitates pouring. The elegant spout is precisely shaped and gold-plated, allowing the milk to flow evenly and without dripping into the cup. The handle is ergonomically curved and positioned so that the jug fits perfectly in the hand, without the fingers coming into contact with the hot silver body.

What is Niello and why does it make the milk jug so valuable?

Niello is a centuries-old technique in which a mixture of silver, copper, lead, and sulfur is inlaid into intricate engravings. After melting at a precise temperature and subsequent polishing, a deep, velvety black contrast emerges, bringing the hand-engraved ornaments to life. This art form requires years of experience—one wrong moment during heating, and the pattern is irretrievably lost.

The Astra Classic milk jug embodies this tradition. Each flower is first engraved by hand into the 925 sterling silver – a process that takes hours and demands the utmost precision. The black niello compound is then poured into the engravings, heated, and polished to a high shine. The result is a living work of art that never looks the same – depending on the light, new details, new depths, new facets are revealed. The combination of niello engraving, matte silver, and gilding is particularly rare: only a few manufacturers worldwide have mastered all three techniques to this level.

Fully gold-plated inside – functional elegance meets hygiene

The inside of the milk jug is completely gold-plated – a detail that not only looks elegant but is also practical. The gold plating protects the 925 sterling silver from tarnishing caused by milk, cream, or coffee, ensuring that the jug retains its flawless shine for years to come. At the same time, gold-plated silver is antibacterial and perfectly hygienic – ideal for everyday use on special occasions.

The gilded rim at the top of the pitcher is not only decorative but also functional: it protects the delicate edge from damage and provides a visual separation between the matte silver body and the gold interior. The spout is also gilded and shaped to ensure a smooth, drip-free flow of milk – a detail that demonstrates the thoughtful design of this pitcher.

Why is a milk jug made of 925 silver with niello so valuable?

The value of this milk jug lies not only in the material, but in the combination of time, skill, and tradition. While machine-made jugs can be produced in a few hours, the Astra Classic undergoes a process that takes several weeks. From the initial sketch of the floral pattern to the shaping in solid 925 sterling silver, to the final niello finishing and gilding – every step requires the hand of a master craftsman.

The SevChern manufactory employs silversmiths who have learned their craft through generations of apprenticeship. Niello masters pass on their knowledge only to select successors – an art not found in textbooks, but acquired through years of practice. The average weight of 187 grams indicates that the milk jug is crafted from solid 925 sterling silver – not a flimsy shell, but a robust, durable piece. The combination of niello engraving, matte silver, and complete interior gilding is particularly rare: only a few manufactories worldwide master all three techniques to this level. This makes each milk jug a unique piece whose value increases with age.

The Astra Classic milk jug in detail

• Material: 925 sterling silver with gold plating and niello inlays
• Surface: Matt/satin finish (no high-gloss polish)
• Ornaments: Hand-engraved floral patterns in niello black with a gilded accent flower.
• Gilding: Entire interior gilded, rim, spout and decorative bands
• Dimensions: Diameter 81.5 mm × Width 107 mm × Height 90 mm
• Capacity: 220 ml (ideal for milk, cream, coffee specialties)
• Average weight: 187 grams (solid 925 silver)
• Origin: Russia, SevChern factory
• Special features: Intricate handwork, niello hand engraving, drip-free spout, over 100 years of manufacturing tradition
• Hallmark/Stamp: Original hallmark present (certificate of authenticity)
• Included: Milk jug, high-quality gift box
• Engraving service: Personalization available upon request

For whom is the Astra Classic milk jug the perfect gift?

This milk jug is a gift for those who find beauty not in ostentation, but in detail. It suits tea lovers who savor the moment of drinking tea, coffee connoisseurs who serve cappuccino with style, collectors of fine silverware, and all those who value quality that lasts for decades. The jug is the perfect complement to the Astra Classic teapot and sugar bowl – together they form a harmonious tea service set that brings Russian elegance to any table.

As a wedding gift, the milk jug symbolizes the promise of shared moments – from the first cup of tea in the morning to the evening cappuccino for two. The flowers in the niello pattern represent growth and permanence, while the gilded accent flower symbolizes the special nature of every relationship. As an anniversary gift, it honors the enduring nature of a love that, like silver itself, only grows in value with age.

For collectors, the Astra Classic milk jug is a must-have: it represents Russian niello art at its finest and comes from a manufactory whose older pieces already fetch prices at auctions far exceeding their material value. Anyone acquiring a milk jug from the SevChern manufactory today is investing not only in beauty, but also in cultural significance and potential for appreciation.

The milk jug as part of the Astra tea service set

The Astra Classic milk jug is part of the comprehensive Astra collection and harmonizes perfectly with the teapot, sugar bowl, teacups, and all other pieces in the series. All items feature the same floral niello pattern with gilded accents, creating a cohesive and harmonious look. Whether used individually or as part of a complete tea service set, the milk jug integrates seamlessly into the Astra world.

Set recommendation: Combine the milk jug with the Astra Classic teapot, sugar bowl, 2 teacups with saucers, and 2 teaspoons for the perfect tea ceremony set for two. Or expand your set with 6 teacups and saucers for a complete 15-piece tea service for guests – the milk jug perfectly complements any set.

Versatile uses – More than just milk

The Astra Classic milk jug isn't limited to milk. Its elegant design and gold-plated interior make it the perfect complement to a wide variety of drinks and occasions.

• Milk with tea: Classic for the British tea ceremony
• Cream for coffee: For cappuccino, latte macchiato, Irish coffee
• Frothy milk: For coffee specialties and latte art
• Condensed milk: For Russian tea or desserts
• Syrups & Sauces: For desserts or pancakes
• Water: As a stylish carafe for small portions

The 220 ml capacity is perfectly sized: large enough for a tea ceremony for two, but not so large that the teapot appears bulky. The drip-free spout ensures that the milk flows precisely into the cup without staining the table. The gold-plated interior protects against discoloration and ensures that the teapot will retain its flawless shine for years to come.

Frequently asked questions about the Astra Classic milk jug

Does the milk jug match the Astra Classic teapot and sugar bowl?

Yes, absolutely! The milk jug features the same floral niello pattern with gilded accents as the Astra Classic teapot and sugar bowl. All three pieces are crafted from 925 sterling silver with a matte finish and harmonize perfectly. They are part of the comprehensive Astra collection, which comprises over 70 pieces – from tea sets to flatware. All pieces fit together seamlessly and can be mixed and matched as desired.

Is the drain truly drip-free?

Yes, the spout is precisely shaped and gold-plated, ensuring a smooth, drip-free flow of milk. The spout's design has been refined over generations, allowing for controlled pouring without spills. It's important to tilt the pitcher slightly while pouring and allow the milk to flow slowly – then the drip-free spout works perfectly. This precision is a testament to the craftsmanship of the SevChern manufactory.

Can I have the milk jug personalized?

Yes, personalization is possible upon request. Due to the handcrafted niello inlays and the matte finish, engraving is technically demanding and should only be done by professionals. Please contact us, and we can discuss the possibilities of a custom engraving – for example, on the underside or in a discreet location that doesn't detract from the floral design.

How do I properly care for the matte surface?

The matte finish is a characteristic feature of the milk jug and should be cared for accordingly. After use, rinse the jug with warm water (with mild dish soap if necessary) and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. For external cleaning, use a special silver polishing cloth – never use harsh cleaning agents, scouring cream, or abrasive sponges. The niello inlays and the gilding are sensitive to mechanical stress. With this care, the matte finish will remain beautiful for decades.

Is the milk jug also suitable for hot milk?

Yes, the milk jug made of 925 sterling silver is completely heat-resistant and can be used for hot milk without any worries. The silver conducts heat evenly and keeps the milk warm longer than ceramic or glass. The handle is shaped so that your fingers don't come into contact with the hot silver body. Please note: Silver conducts heat very well, so the outside of the jug will also get warm – always hold it by the handle!

Why is the Astra Classic milk jug so valuable?

The value lies in the combination of three factors: First, the art of niello – only a few manufacturers worldwide still master this centuries-old technique at this level. Second, the handcraftsmanship – each flower is individually engraved, filled with niello, and polished. A process that takes weeks. Third, the SevChern manufactory – for over 100 years, it has been producing silver art, whose older pieces already fetch prices at auction far exceeding their material value. The milk jug is not just a utilitarian object, but a work of art that will last for generations and whose value increases with the years.

Which other items from the Astra collection match the milk jug?

The milk jug coordinates perfectly with all pieces in the Astra collection. We particularly recommend the following items: Astra Classic teapot (550 ml), sugar bowl (400 ml), teacups with saucers (130 ml), sugar tongs, teaspoons, and silver tray. For a complete tea service set, we recommend: teapot + milk jug + sugar bowl + 6 teacups with saucers = 15-piece set for 6 people. All pieces feature the same floral niello pattern and are perfectly coordinated.

Can I give the milk jug as a gift?

Yes, the milk jug comes in a high-quality gift box, ready for immediate gifting. The elegantly designed box protects the jug during transport. Upon request, we can discreetly package the gift and send it directly to the recipient. Please contact us if you would like to include a personal greeting card – we're happy to help make your gift truly special.

A gift that creates memories

The Astra Classic milk jug is not a product for those who prioritize quantity over quality. It is designed for those who understand that true beauty takes time – time to create, time to admire, time to enjoy. Every time this jug is placed on the table, it tells the story of an art that has almost been lost in our fast-paced world.

It tells the story of Russian silversmiths who patiently and precisely engraved flowers in silver. Of niello masters who, with the devotion of monks, inlaid black ornaments into gleaming silver. Of gilders who, with a steady hand, added golden accents. And of you – the person who now holds this pitcher and becomes part of its story.

The matte surface feels warm to the touch. The gilded flower catches the light. The niello ornaments speak of nature and tradition. The spout pours the milk precisely and without dripping. And in the stillness of a tea ceremony, this milk jug becomes what it is meant to be: a companion for unforgettable moments.

Product details at a glance

Silver Verse – Memories that last

Memories fade. Photos yellow. But a milk jug made of 925 sterling silver endures. It is passed down from generation to generation, and with every cup of tea made with its milk, its story grows. The gilded flower will one day become a symbol of the grandmother who always added a splash of milk to her tea. The niello ornaments will become a reminder of afternoons spent together around the kitchen table. The drip-free spout will become a tactile reminder of elegance and precision.

The Astra Classic milk jug is not just an object – it's a legacy. For people who want to not only see beauty, but feel it. For unforgettable moments. For memories that last.