Russian Tea Glasses and Russian Tea Glass Holders

Tea glass holders, called ‘podstakannik’ in Russian, originated in Russia in the late 18th century when tea drinking became a popular culture in Russia. The tea glass holders were a practical invention to hold the extremely hot glasses of tea, which the Russians liked to drink soon after brewing. Many a ‘hot’ accident would have prompted the development of tea glass holders, which, in turn must have been responsible for preventing many more such accidents. As is normal for any product, with time, the tea glass holders moved away from being merely practical to being practical as well as ornamental.

Soon, tea glass holders were developed more as works of art and souvenirs that were passed proudly from generation to generation. The majority of Russian tea glass holders are produced in the town of Kolchugino in Russia. The metals most commonly used in the manufacture of the tea glass holders are silver and nickel as well as their alloys. Silver by itself, may not be the best choice because it is a very good conductor of heat. But various silver based alloys are perfect materials for tea glass holders.

The Russian store offers tea glass holders in a variety of interesting styles and designs. Crystal glass varieties catch the light at different angles adding a rainbow like hue to the entire room, transforming your tea into magical wonder liquid. If you want to add a dash of history to your tea party, why not opt for the ‘Soviet Space Program’ design tea glass holder. You can also be a part of the Russian nobles by choosing a tea glass holder that has a Russian Romanov family (Russian Tsars) double eagle crest on its design

Technically called tea glass holders, but you don’t have to use it only for drinking tea, do you? Why not convert it into an interesting milk glass holder for your toddler? You might be amazed at the high rate of disappearance of the normally ‘unpopular’ drink. Occupying a position of honor amongst your cutlery and mugs, these Russian historical relics are sure to add a touch of elegance to your tableware and your home.

Serving tea in ‘podstakannik’ is the traditional way of tea drinking in Russia, Belarus and Ukraine. Though many urban homes in these countries have moved towards drinking tea in mugs or cups, in the rural areas or at railway stations, tea glass holders are still used. In a world that is getting increasingly xenophobic, adopting this small bit of foreign culture in your home can help in opening your heart to others’ beliefs and values. If you look at it this way, the Russian tea glass holders are much more than mere vessels that protect you from hot teas. Though, of course, that is still an important practical use, isn’t it?