Samorodok Silver Cigarette Box

A stunning box covered with reticulated 'Samorodok' silver. By SJ Rose and Sons silversmiths. Hallmarked, London 1966.

Dimensions: 14.25 cm/5⅝ inches (width) x 10.5 cm/4¼ inches (depth) x 4 cm/1½ inches (height).

Samorodok is a Russian word meaning 'metal in its natural state'. This method of working gold, silver and other precious metals was made most famous in Russia, by Fabergé, and is a very difficult technique to master.

The distinctive finish is achieved by heating the metal to a temperature just below its melting point before cooling it abruptly in water, the results resembling raw metal ore.