Silver goblet 925 silver turtle dove niello 280 ml

The turtle dove is one of humanity's oldest symbols – a migratory bird that returns every spring and has always represented loyalty and new beginnings. On this cup of pure 925 sterling silver, it sits in fine niello relief on a branch, surrounded by blossoms and leaves, while an oval medallion with its own floral motif brings the eye to rest.

At a glance

• Material: 925 sterling silver, non-gilded
• Technique: Niello inlay with turtle dove motif and rope-pattern borders
• Dimensions: Diameter 72 mm × Height 102 mm
• Capacity: 280 ml
• Weight: approx. 223 g
• Hallmark: confirms 925 fineness
• Delivery: in gift packaging

Material and workmanship

What appears as a deep black relief on the belly of the cup is not paint, but niello – an inlay technique where motifs are first engraved into the silver and then filled with a molten alloy of silver, copper, lead, and sulfur. This alloy chemically bonds with the base metal, making it last not for years, but for generations.

The SevChern workshop in Veliky Ustyug, a northern Russian city known for its niello silversmiths since the 17th century, crafts each cup in more than 15 steps. The turtle dove sits on a branch among blossoms and leaves, alongside an oval medallion with its own floral motif as a serene counterpart. Rope-pattern borders frame the composition at the top and bottom. The struck hallmark confirms the 925 fineness.

Use and occasions

The turtle dove returns every spring – a natural symbol of new beginnings and loyalty, making the cup a fitting companion for special life moments. For baptisms, the dove has always stood for the Holy Spirit. For weddings, turtle doves embody the loving couple. For the birthday of a nature lover, the cup is a gift that combines symbolism and material quality.

For those who prefer gilded accents, the Nectar line offers the counterpart to this cup – same shape, same dimensions, but with warm gold instead of pure silver. Both variations can be combined on a table.

Engraving and SilberVerse Card

The polished silver between the niello bands offers space for an engraving – a name, a date, or a short dedication, customizable on request.

Upon request, we include a personalized SilberVerse card in photo format (15 × 10 cm landscape) – individually designed, suitable for the occasion, and currently free of charge.

Care

A soft cloth and lukewarm water are sufficient for cleaning. You should avoid silver dips, as they can damage the niello inlay. Since the alloy is chemically bonded with the silver, the piece remains robust – and the contrasts deepen with polishing over time, instead of fading.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this cup suitable as a baptism gift?

Yes. The dove has always stood for the Holy Spirit and peace – a baptism gift with symbolic power that lasts a lifetime.

What distinguishes this cup from the gilded Nectar variant?

Both share the same shape and dimensions (280 ml, diameter 72 mm × height 102 mm). The difference lies in the finish: this cup is pure 925 silver without gilding, cooler and more classic in expression. The Nectar line features gilded accents.

How do I properly care for niello silver?

A soft cloth and lukewarm water are sufficient. Avoid silver dips, as they can damage the niello inlay. Over time, the contrasts will deepen with regular polishing.

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