What Are Faberge-Style Eggs?

Jewelry boxes have been in use for centuries and at some given time a woman has owned one. It may have been given as a special occasion gift or a gift from a parent to a daughter in one of the popular styles such as a chest or armoire.

Chests and armoire jewelry boxes add to the appeal of any room but if you're looking for something unique for yourself or for a gift there's another option besides a traditional jewelry box. Faberge-style eggs are unique jewelry boxes for individual pieces or small amounts of jewelry. The eggs are decadent and bright and offer a fun option to hold your favorite pieces and accent your dresser top or corner table.

Faberge Eggs

The origination of the the eggs began in the House of Faberge by Gustav Faberge during 1885 as a gift to the Czar Alexander III for his wife Czarina Maria Fedorovna for the twenty year anniversary of their betrothal. It was given as a gift and when the "shell" was opened it held a yellow gold yolk inside. The yolk also opened to reveal a small multi-colored hen and pendant. From this time forward there were a multitude of Easter eggs created in small and large sizes for the Czar's family. The eggs became even more prominent after Peter Carl Fabergé joined the house. The fame of the eggs allowed the House of Faberge to create eggs for other very select clients such as industrialist Alexander Kelch, Duchess of Marlborough and Yusupovs.

Faberge Style Designs

Each Faberge egg was created with its own unique design but purchasing an original piece is out of the question for most. On the other hand; there are Faberge style eggs made to accommodate everyone's taste. Replicas and new creations are produced in porcelain, pewter, enamel, Swarovski crystals and often 22K,23K or 24K plating.

Size

There are several styles available in hen, goose and ostrich sizes. Although these are the names of the sizes each size will vary depending on the style and accessories. For example; the addition of legs or stands can change the dimensions for some eggs. Though the sizes are smaller than traditional jewelry boxes a Faberge style egg is perfect for your favorite piece.

Styles

Faberge style eggs are crafted to be unique but some will also have small surprises within. There are versions with ballerina's, brides and grooms, ring rolls and other figurines. You can also find Faberge style eggs that are music boxes and picture frames. Other accessories such as detachable legs, stands and even chariots are available with certain eggs. Several egg styles open across the middle, from the front, all sides or two sides, as well as, has a soft inner lining to protect your jewelry or precious trinkets.

Source: Jewelry Box Direct
Source: About.com
Source: Faberge.com