Blue Serpent Clock Faberge Egg, Dimensions: 6in (H) X 2in (W), Material: Pewter, Enamel, Crystals, The Blue Serpent Clock Egg is made of varicolored gold, diamonds and translucent royal blue and opalescent white enamel. Designed as a clock in the S?vres tradition, this Egg is a beautiful example of Faberge's use of the quatre couleur technique in gold. Around the shaft supporting the Egg, a diamond-set serpent is coiled, the head and tongue pointing to the hour. The famed Faberge eggs are jeweled eggs, often with the most ornate, minuscule designs on them. The House of Faberge made the original pieces from 1885 to 1917. At that time, they became popular gifts given during the Easter season. Larger versions were made for the Russian royal family, including Alexander III and Nicolas II. Of these, 42 of the 50 originals exist today. Most Faberge eggs, though, were much smaller and hung from a chain around the neck. These eggs have precious metals on them or gemstone decorations, often with intricate detailing. These are a symbol of luxury and thought of as individual masterpieces.