Gift Set Letter Opener and Magnifying Glass 925 Silver — Niello Rose Petals by SevChern

A letter opener and a magnifying glass made of 925 sterling silver, connected by the same niello rose blossom with leaves and tendrils on both handles. Two desk tools designed as a pair, intended to be used and appreciated as a pair.

At a glance

• Set: Letter opener and magnifying glass with matching niello rose blossom ornamentation
• Material: 925 sterling silver, genuine niello inlay (no plating, no printing)
• Letter opener: approx. 43 g, length approx. 20 cm, oval handle end
• Magnifying glass: approx. 88 g, length approx. 16.4 cm, round niello border on the magnifying frame
• Ornament: Rose blossom with leaves and tendrils, identical on both pieces
• Hallmarked: Yes
• Packaging: Dark blue gift box with satin inlay

Material and craftsmanship

Both pieces are made of 925 sterling silver and feature the same niello rose blossom with leaves and tendrils—on the oval handle end of the letter opener and as a border around the frame of the magnifying glass. The dark lines are not a coating or a print: the niello compound is melted into hand-engraved recesses, forming a chemical-physical bond with the silver. This bond is permanent—it does not detach, it does not flake, it only changes through polishing, which makes it even more beautiful: the contrast between the dark niello line and the polished silver deepens with every cleaning. The blade of the letter opener is slender, long, and polished, while the glass lens of the magnifier provides clear magnification. Both pieces are hallmarked. In the SevChern workshop in Veliky Ustyug, this niello technique has been cultivated for generations—it is one of the oldest silversmithing techniques in Europe, where every master has only one chance per line: if it is not placed correctly, the work must be started over from the beginning.

Use and occasions

A set like this belongs where the desk is more than just a workplace. For a company anniversary, it expresses appreciation for a long-standing partnership. Upon retirement or becoming professor emeritus, it accompanies the transition from the office to a private study. For a milestone birthday—the 60th, 70th, or 80th—it is a gift for someone who recognizes and appreciates fine craftsmanship. As a corporate gift for board members, supervisory boards, or long-term business partners, it remains visible on the desk rather than disappearing into a drawer. And as the first personal desk piece for a confirmation or religious initiation, it can be the foundation of a personal silver collection.

Engraving and SilberVerse card

We can check the handle of the letter opener for a space for initials or a date next to the niello rose, and the handle of the magnifying glass is also a possibility—engraving subject to approval. Simply add the engraving service flat rate to your shopping cart along with the set; we will then consult with the workshop regarding feasibility and scope and coordinate the wording with you. If the engraving is not possible, we will refund the flat rate. Upon request, we will include a complimentary 15 × 10 cm landscape format SilberVerse card with your order—digitally designed with your personal message, it adds the perfect finishing touch to the gift presentation.

Care

Clean the silver surfaces with a soft polishing cloth. The niello ornamentation becomes more contrasted with every polish—the rose blossoms stand out more clearly the more often the surrounding silver is maintained. It is best to clean the magnifying glass lens with a glasses cleaning cloth; do not use silver polish on the glass.

Frequently asked questions

Do the letter opener and magnifying glass feature the same ornament?
Yes. Both pieces display the same rose blossom ornamentation with leaves and tendrils—they are designed and crafted as a matching pair.

Is this genuine niello or just blackened silver?
Genuine niello. The rose blossoms are made of actual niello compound, melted into hand-engraved recesses—no artificial oxidation, no coating.

Can I actually use the magnifying glass for reading?
Yes. The glass lens provides clear magnification and is a functional tool—ideal for small print, documents, stamps, or old manuscripts.

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