An exquisite collection of Faberge eggs created by descendants of the legendary Russian craftsman is set to be shown in Norfolk.

An exquisite collection of Fabergé eggs created by descendants of the legendary Russian craftsman is set to be shown in Norfolk.

It will be only the third time the St Petersburg Collection has been displayed in the county and tickets for a fund-raising lunch will be in aid of a Moscow orphanage.

The collection contains the work of the legendary Carl Fabergé's grandson, Theo, and his daughter Sarah.

Carl Fabergé's bejewelled eggs and animals carved out of semi-precious stones once filled the drawing room at Sandringham House. They were collected by Edward VII's wife, Queen Alexandra, and shown in specially-made display cabinets.

So, fittingly, the next generation of Fabergé creations is to be shown at the Sandringham Visitor Centre in March.

Theo Fabergé has continued his grandfather's passion for designing ornate objects and created the St Petersburg Collection which is housed in London.

It includes a variety of previous objet d'arts and jewellery made by Theo Fabergé and Sarah, who launched her first designs for the collection in 1994, though it is not known at this stage which pieces will be shown at Sandringham.

The lunch will be in aid of the St Dimitry's Community and Orphanage in Moscow.

The idea to use the collection to raise funds for the orphanage came from two friends from Lyng in mid-Norfolk.

Eileen Head and Rita Miell have been fundraising since 1992 for the orphanage, which provides a loving home for more than 50 children alongside a day school and a nursing school.

Miss Miell said: "We are extremely lucky they are able to host this event for us. It is a unique opportunity for people to see these amazing pieces. There is still a great need to help the children as the orphanage does not get state support and relies on donations."

Philip Birkenstein, chairman of the St Petersburg Collection, said: "This is only the third time it has gone to Sandringham. The event is always a sell-out. We will be bringing a selection of work and there will also be an amusing talk about the Fabergé history."

The luncheon will be at the visitor centre on Friday March 9.

There will be a wine reception and two-course lunch followed by the talk and an opportunity to view the pieces.

Tickets are £30 and for more information contact 0155 767557 or visit the King's Lynn Festival Office in Queen Street.