A Fabergé egg is an exquisite and highly sought-after piece of jewellery created by the House of Fabergé. This type of egg style is celebrated for its intricate craftsmanship, luxurious materials, and historical significance. It was produced by renowned Russian jeweller and goldsmith Peter Carl Fabergé. Born in 1846 in Saint Petersburg, Russia, Peter Carl Fabergé was one of the most celebrated jewellers of his time. His family business, established in 1842, specialised in high-quality jewellery and decorative arts. His father, Gustav Fabergé, was a Russian jeweller of Baltic German origin and was the founder of the House of Fabergé. After his father left the business in the hands of Hiskias Pendin, Carl was sent to study business administration. He attended a course at Schloss’s Commercial College in Paris and visited several European galleries and museums for inspiration. By then, he had mastered the techniques of repairing antique objects at the Hermitage Museum.

In 1872, Peter Carl Fabergé married Augusta Jacobs and took over responsibility for running the company after the demise of Hiskias Pendin. The Tzar Alexander III had commissioned Fabergé to make an easter egg for his empress in 1885 and 1886 after seeing their works at the Pan-Russian Exhibition in Moscow. This recognition got the jewellers' mass attention. After the Russian Revolution in 1917, Fabergé’s business was nationalised, and many of the eggs were lost or sold. The eggs that survived were dispersed around the world and now only 43 of the original Imperial eggs remain.

Apart from specific themes, some eggs depict abstract patterns and artistic designs that showcase Fabergé's skill in working with materials like enamel, precious metals, and gemstones. Other eggs have been designed to celebrate various seasons and holidays such as Easter, which aligns with the tradition of giving eggs as gifts. Many of the eggs were designed with themes relating to the Russian imperial family, featuring miniature portraits of the royal family or symbols related to the Russian monarchy, such as the imperial double-headed eagle. Nature-inspired motifs were also common in Fabergé eggs including flowers, birds, and insects.

Each egg reflects Fabergé's creative vision and the tastes of the Russian imperial family. Some notable themes and motifs in Fabergé Eggs incorporated elements of architecture, such as miniature replicas of famous buildings or intricate designs reminiscent of architectural styles. A fine example of this is reflected in the ‘Imari Egg’ work created utilising porcelain, sterling silver, vermeil, and cabochon ruby executed in 1992 by Theo Fabergé (1922-2007).

Theo continued the legacy of his grandfather, Peter Carl Fabergé. His work often combined traditional techniques with modern designs, blending historical elegance and current style. The talented designer had achieved mastery in design, technical drawing, engineering, and fine instrument making. Apart from being the owner of an engineering business, he was also a member of the Royal Air Force, serving during World War II. Later after the sale of his engineering business in 1974, he turned his attention to executing objects and restoring antiques. He received several awards including the Freeman Prizeman of the Turners Company and the Lady Gertrude Crawford Medal. His works continue to be admired by viewers and collectors across the globe.

Fabergé eggs became symbols of luxury and artistic excellence. They represented a unique fusion of fine art and craftsmanship and were often associated with the grandeur of the Russian imperial era. Their allure extends beyond the jewellery world, influencing popular culture and captivating audiences with their beauty and history. Today Fabergé eggs continue to be displayed in major museums, such as the Kremlin Armoury Museum in Moscow, the Fabergé Museum in Saint Petersburg, and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London, and are part of several private collections worldwide.