When this plaque is not used, the crown and costume are often adorned with pearls and other precious stones--sometimes of great price.
In respect of religions significance, Icons are of two kinds: simple, and miraculous or miracle-working (tchudotvorny).

The former are manufactured in enormous quantities--chiefly in the province of Vladimir, where whole villages are employed in this kind of work--and are to be found in every Russian house, from the hut of the peasant to the palace of the Emperor.

They are generally placed high up in a corner facing the door, and good orthodox Christians on entering bow in that direction, making at the same time the sign of the cross.

Before and after meals the same short ceremony is always performed.

On the eve of fete-days a small lamp is kept burning before at least one of the Icons in the house.
The wonder-working Icons are comparatively few in number, and are always carefully preserved in a church or chapel.