Ilya Abelsky -- noted Russian jewelry designer and creator of a dazzling 600-piece collection of miniature jeweled eggs that continues the tradition of the heralded 19th century Carl Faberge, jeweler to the Russian Imperial Family -- will exhibit his hand-crafted miniatures here in a special, three-day pre-Mother¹s Day exhibition at Tamsen Munger Fine Jewelry, May 6, 7 and 8 2004.

Abelsky will be available to meet with customers from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. each day of the exhibition at Villaggio Shopping Center, 7909 North Blackstone Avenue.

Recognized Around The World

The vibrant color, exquisite styling and expert craftsmanship of Abelsky's Russian miniature eggs are recognized around the world. Abelsky has exhibited his creations in London, Paris, Vienna and Berlin -- as well as in other major cities across the United States. Although many of Abelsky's designs are inspired by Faberge, the exhibition also will include a series of 20 American patriotic eggs, especially appropriate with so many Americans serving in Iraq, Afghanistan and elsewhere around the world. In addition, Abelsky will offer a line of eggs that are appropriate for the Mother's Day gifts.

The brilliant color, sophisticated styling and expert Old World craftsmanship of Abelsky's Russian miniature eggs are considered unique in the jewelry industry. While original Faberge eggs are kept behind glass and untouchable in the world's finest museums and private colections, Abelsky's creations are affordable and collectable for all. America's largest collection of Faberge eggs, previously owned by the late Malcolm Forbes has just been sold to a Russian collector and returned to Russia leaving this country without a collection of the priceless objects.

Special Eggs Available

Abelsky explained that jeweled eggs are an important part of Russian culture and are traditionally given as gifts. "Eggs, Abelsky explained, "are a symbol of love in Russia and are appropriate as gifts." Abelsky's miniatures are approximately 3/4 inch tall. They are made out of sterling silver with 14 carat gold overlay and brilliant, multicolored enamel. The secret, Abelsky says, is in the hand enameling. Abelsky's eggs are often mistaken for Faberge eggs -- although the master did only 48 miniatures that are known to exist, according to Abelsky.

Designed in the U.S.

Abelsky designs the eggs in Atlanta and uses six expert U.S.-based Russian jewelers, that he helped emigrate to this country, to produce them. It typically takes two-to-three months for a new design to be created. Each egg is given eight painstakingly delicate coats of enamel.