Turkish tea glass with tea glass holder made of 925 silver & crystal glass

The shape of the Turkish tea glass is world-renowned: the slender waist, the curved top, the clear glass through which the tea glows in its true color. This tea glass holder, crafted from 925 sterling silver by SevChern from Veliky Ustyug, encases the crystal glass within a frame of open gold filigree and a circumferential niello ornamental band.

At a Glance

• Holder: 925 Sterling silver, partially gilded, niello
• Filigree: open gold arches at the top, openwork
• Glass: Crystal glass with facet cut
• Handle: gilded, smoothly curved
• Dimensions: approx. Ø 8.6 cm, height 7.7 cm
• Weight: approx. 115 g
• Manufacturer: SevChern, Veliky Ustyug, Northern Russia
• Hallmark: present
• Engraving: very limited, upon request
• Gift box: included

Material and Craftsmanship

A wreath of open, golden filigree arches encircles the waist of the crystal glass, beneath which a narrow, circumferential niello ornamental band marks the transition to the polished silver base. Niello is not a paint, but a black metal alloy of silver, copper, lead, and sulfur, which is melted into finely engraved depressions and permanently bonded with the silver base. The ornament on this holder was hand-engraved into the silver, filled with niello, and then ground free; the result is insoluble and does not fade. The open gold filigree arches above provide a clear view of the crystal glass: The facet cut of the glass shimmers through the gold arms and refracts the light with every movement. The gilded, smoothly curved handle is positioned on the side of the holder, cool and stable in the hand.

SevChern produces niello silver in Veliky Ustyug, Vologda Oblast in Northern Russia, where this art has been documented since 1683. The niello tradition of this city carries a geographically protected designation of origin; authentic niello from Veliky Ustyug may only be produced there. In 1937, this tradition received a gold medal at the World Exhibition in Paris. This tea glass holder undergoes six production stages: shaping the silver blank, hand-engraving the ornament, niello melting, grinding and exposing the pattern, gilding the filigree arches and handle, and final polishing. The Russian Federal Assay Office confirms the 925 alloy with its hallmark; the master's personal manufacturer's mark is also present.

Usage and Occasions

The Turkish tea glass shape, called Cay bardagi in Turkish, keeps the tea warm in the lower, narrower part, while the upper, wider end remains cool when drinking. The crystal glass in this holder precisely follows this geometry, with the silver holder grasping it at the waist without obscuring the shape. At approximately 115 grams total weight, the piece feels substantial but not heavy in the hand. As a wedding gift, this tea glass holder is suitable for a new beginning together, as well as an exceptional present for tea lovers who wish to combine oriental tea culture with Russian silver art. This piece is also an enrichment for collectors who appreciate Russian goldsmithery with unusual forms. The glass can be easily removed from the holder for cleaning and refilling.

Engraving and SilberVerse Card

Engraving is very limited on this model, as the outer wall is largely occupied by the filigree and the niello band. Contact us before ordering; we will work with you to determine which area might be suitable for a discreet engraving. Upon request, we will include a personalized SilberVerse card in photo format (15 x 10 cm landscape), individually designed and appropriate for the occasion. It is currently free of charge.

Care

The glass and silver holder are separable, which facilitates care. Clean the crystal glass normally with warm water. Wash the silver holder exclusively by hand: lukewarm water, mild dish soap, soft cloth. No dishwasher, no silver dip, no ultrasonic cleaner; these methods will damage the gilding and niello inlay. For the polished silver surfaces at the base, a soft silver polishing cloth is sufficient. Store dry, ideally in the gift box.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference from a classic Podstakannik?
A Podstakannik is the Russian term for a tea glass holder. This holder follows the same principle, a silver holder and a glass vessel with a handle on the metal, but in a Turkish rather than a Russian-cylindrical glass shape.

Can the crystal glass be replaced?
Yes, the glass sits in the holder and can be removed, which is practical for cleaning and refilling. In case of damage, please contact us, and we will check if a replacement glass is available.

Is the piece suitable for hot beverages?
Yes, the crystal glass is designed for hot beverages. The gilded handle remains comfortable to hold, even when the tea is still hot. Let the water cool briefly before pouring, instead of pouring it directly boiling.

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Further models with tea glass and silver holder can be found in our selection of table silver and silverware made of 925 silver. For more occasion ideas, check out our gift ideas made of 925 silver.