Tea glass holder “St. George the Victorious” made of 925 silver gold-plated

On this tea glass holder made of solid 925 sterling silver, a centuries-old symbol meets a technique that combines three material contrasts in one piece: the deep black niello in the relief depressions, a gilded equestrian figure in the center of the medallion, and the bright silver all around, framing both. Manufactured by ArgentA, Russia, this podstakannik is the golden counterpart to the silver St. George model.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, solid, with niello and partial gilding
• Holder: H 95 x Ø 72 mm, approx. 129 g silver, gilded equestrian relief in medallion, handle
• Tea glass: H 100 x Ø 65 mm, 200 ml capacity, diamond cut
• Manufacturer: ArgentA, Russia
• Hallmark: 925 mark, manufacturer's mark, Russian state hallmark
• Engraving: not possible, the motif is the statement
• Delivery: includes gift box with velvet inlay

Material and workmanship

925 sterling silver, solid: Not silver-plated metal, no brass core, but an alloy with a legally protected 925 hallmark, confirmed by the Russian state hallmark and ArgentA's manufacturer's mark. The weight of approx. 129 g of silver is noticeable to the touch. In the depressions of the relief is the niello, a dark surface treatment that creates shadows and depth, not paint or lacquer, but a bond with the silver itself that does not wear off over time. The equestrian figure in the center of the laurel wreath medallion is additionally gilded, permanently incorporated into the relief, which gives it a luminosity that the silver sister model does not have. Three contrasts in one piece: black, gold, silver. The diamond-cut tea glass, H 100 x Ø 65 mm, 200 ml, is perfectly matched to the holder.

Usage and occasions

The motif of St. George has been on the coat of arms of the city of Moscow since the 15th century; the Order of St. George, founded by Catherine the Great in 1769, was the highest Russian military decoration. As a Father's Day gift, the gilded motif strikes a chord that an ordinary present cannot reach: it remains, it is used, it is explained. As a business present for very special occasions, such as the conclusion of a major deal, this set signals that the recipient is not an ordinary customer. This piece is also a suitable choice for promotions, name days for any George, Georgi, or George, as well as for collectors who appreciate the value of niello and partial gilding.

Care

Solid 925 silver with niello and gilding is easy to care for: wipe the holder dry with a soft, lint-free cloth, no aggressive polishing agent that would attack the dark patination or gilding. Rinse the tea glass separately in lukewarm water. Neither the holder nor the glass belong in the dishwasher.

Frequently asked questions

Is the silver real or silver-plated?
The silver is real, solid 925 sterling silver, not silver-plated base metal. Its authenticity is confirmed by three hallmarks: the 925 mark, ArgentA's manufacturer's mark, and the Russian state hallmark.

What is partial gilding, is it durable?
Yes, the gilding is durable and incorporated into the relief of the equestrian figure. It will not rub off during normal use because the recessed, nielloed areas serve as a natural protective zone.

What is the difference to the silver St. George model?
Both models bear the same relief with niello in the depressions. In the gilded model, the equestrian figure is additionally gilded, which gives it significantly more luminosity and contrast: black, gold, and silver instead of just black and silver.

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You can find more podstakanniki with historical motifs in our selection of tableware and silverware made of 925 silver. For more occasion ideas, check out our gift ideas made of 925 silver.