Faberge eggs

Faberge Eggs have been designed for more than 120 years by special techniques of a famous artist and imperial jeweler Carl Faberge. Their designs were inspired by historical art works that Faberge imitated or copied from his travels or from the Hermitage. The tradition of Faberge Eggs to commorate the tradition of Easter, which is continuing even today is a age old tradition which started with the Russian Tsar, during the festive season of Russian Orthodox Church. There was a surprise inside each egg and he was commissioned with making an Easter egg every year.


source: www.zimbio.com

So, when I was walking around Moscow this summer I decided to buy some cheap versions of these eggs (eggs-pendants) as souvenirs for the relatives. I couldn't easily find them, but when I finally ended up in Staryj (Old, in Russian) Arbat street, which is famous for its crafts and tourists' little things. Then, I finally found them in all the souvenir's shops. But, I warn you! They can be more expensive at one places and cheaper at another and the difference in price is noticeable! I almost bought one pendant for 1.000 Rubles (aprox. 32$US) and I found exactly the same one in another shop on the same street for 550 Rubles (aprox. 17$US). So...Don't rush :) Look with patience and you will find your precious piece. 


I wouldn't advise you to buy Matryoshkas (the traditional Russian dolls) on Staryj Arbat, well....only if you are looking for the variety...But, cheaper Matryoshkas (and they are quite nice and traditional too) are definitely sold in the famous Red Square. There you can also find flasks, lighters, mugs and other useful stuff with the traditional Soviet and typical Russian emblems for good prices. 
I saw the traditional toy - Cheburashka there too. It's something between a bear and a monkey, but until nowadays no one figured out the type of the animal the toy represents and something more interesting its sex. Anyway, it will represent the Winter Olympics in Sochi 2014 and it's cuteeeee! :) So if you want something to cheer you up - buy Cheburashka!! He will keep your mood up!