Cut Glass Holder with Silver Base

I inherited this heirloom from my mother. Its history is uncertain, although she was an avid collector of crystal and cut glass of all kinds; this is the only piece that was given to me. I would assume it is either a cigarette or match (?) holder. The glass seems truly cut, and the etching on the main faces seems hand-done (couldn't really get a good picture to share).

It stands just over 4" high; the glass holder is about 1-1/8" x 2", with the inside approximately 3/4"x1-1/4". The base is silver and about 2-1/2" in diameter, although I can't tell if it is solid or plated. It does have a series of 7 numbers hand-engraved in the base, with another 4 numbers, then a space and 2 more numbers after that, again hand-engraved. I have no idea what these numbers mean or represent, although someone suggested that this makes the bottom more likely to be solid silver.

I would love to have anyone's feedback on what this item is, what is was used for, or any history you may want to share. I use it as a rather lovely business card holder on my desk, although it seems rather elegant for such a menial task.