The silver blackening craft originally developed in Russia back in the 17th century, and eventually became synonymous with the town of Veliky Ustyug in the north of Russia. The manufacturer follows in the footsteps of ancient traditions and is renowned for its intricate signature patterns, meticulous craftsmanship, and austere shapes. The collection is impressive and features around 2000 products, all made in 925-grade silver, from tableware and jewellery to religious items. The silver blackening technique used by the local silversmiths dates back at least three centuries and is known as niello. The masters use niello - a special metallic alloy made with sulphur - to decorate the surface of the silver items.

The manufacturer and its artisans made a great name far beyond Russia for the quality of the engraving or etching and the elegance of the niello ornaments that create a striking contrast with the silver. State-of-the-art objects made by Severnaya Chern form part of the collections of the major Russian art galleries and have travelled all around the world, from New York to London to Milan. The manufacturer won a Grand Gold medal at the 1937 Paris World Exhibition and is protected as a piece of Russian national cultural heritage.