Introduction

Faberge eggs are some of the most beautiful and intricate works of art in the world. They were created by the House of Faberge in Russia, and were originally commissioned by the Russian royal family as Easter gifts. Today, these eggs are highly sought after by collectors around the world.

History of Faberge Eggs

The first Faberge egg was created in 1885, and was commissioned by Tsar Alexander III of Russia as an Easter gift for his wife, Empress Maria Feodorovna. The egg was made of gold and enamel, and contained a small surprise inside. This egg, known as the Hen Egg, was the first in a series of over 50 eggs created by the House of Faberge.

Over the years, Faberge eggs became more and more elaborate, with intricate designs and precious materials. Many of the eggs contained miniatures, such as carriages or animals, made of gold and precious stones. Each egg was unique, and was created by a team of skilled craftsmen, including goldsmiths, jewelers, and enamelers.

What Makes Faberge Eggs So Special?

There are many reasons why Faberge eggs are so highly prized by collectors. First, they are incredibly rare. Only a few dozen were made, and many of them were destroyed during the Russian Revolution. Second, they are incredibly beautiful, with intricate designs and precious materials. Finally, they are incredibly valuable. Some Faberge eggs have sold for millions of dollars at auction.

How to Collect Faberge Eggs

Collecting Faberge eggs can be a daunting task, but with some careful planning and research, anyone can start a collection. Here are some tips to help you get started:

1. Set a Budget

Faberge eggs are incredibly expensive, so it’s important to set a budget before you start collecting. Determine how much you can afford to spend on each egg, and stick to your budget.

2. Do Your Research

Before you start collecting Faberge eggs, it’s important to do your research. Learn about the history of the eggs, and familiarize yourself with the different types of eggs that were made. This will help you make informed decisions when it comes to purchasing eggs for your collection.

3. Build Relationships with Dealers

Building relationships with reputable dealers is key to building a successful Faberge egg collection. Dealers can help you find eggs that are within your budget, and can provide you with important information about the eggs you are interested in. They can also help you authenticate eggs and evaluate their condition.

4. Consider Investing in Restoration

Many Faberge eggs have been damaged over the years, and restoring them can be a costly but worthwhile investment. Restored eggs can be just as beautiful and valuable as their original counterparts. However, it’s important to work with a reputable restorer who has experience working with Faberge eggs.

5. Attend Auctions and Exhibitions

Attending auctions and exhibitions is a great way to learn more about Faberge eggs and to see them up close. You can also meet other collectors and dealers, and get a sense of current market trends and prices.

6. Join a Faberge Egg Collectors Club

Joining a collectors club is a great way to connect with other enthusiasts and to learn more about Faberge eggs. Clubs often organize events and exhibitions, and can provide valuable resources and information.

Conclusion

Collecting Faberge eggs is a rewarding and exciting hobby, but it requires careful planning and research. By setting a budget, doing your research, building relationships with dealers, considering restoration, attending auctions and exhibitions, and joining a collectors club, you can build a beautiful and valuable collection of these incredible works of art. Remember to always purchase from reputable sources, and to take good care of your collection to ensure its long-term value.