Chunky Rings | The story behind the stone
Photo by Glen Wilde.
Afghanistan is home to some of the most diverse and complex geology in the world. Its mountains hold an abundance of precious and semi-precious stones, a richness that has shaped a unique culture of gem-cutting and jewellery-making that dates back thousands of years.
Today, master jewellers in Kabul continue this tradition, combining generations of craftsmanship with the country’s exceptional natural materials. Earlier this week, we launched our best-selling chunky rings in three new stones - white marble, green agate, and green onyx. Keep reading to find out more about the history and meaning of these remarkable stones.
The Origins of Green Onyx
Onyx from Afghanistan is renowned for its exceptional quality and colour - ranging from soft greens and yellows to warm whites and browns. It was named after the Ancient Greek word for claw or nail, as onyx's textured bands have been thought to resemble a fingernail.
Historically, onyx has been valued for centuries across many cultures - used for carvings, inlay work, and ceremonial jewellery alike. Green onyx's rare, jade-like tones lend it a unique elegance. Its serene hue is thought to have soothing qualities, bringing calm and clarity to its wearers.
The Origins of Green Agate
Agate takes its name from its first recorded discovery on the shorelines of Sicily's ancient River Achates (now known as the Dirillo). A beloved gemstone all over the world, agate has been found on every continent - including Antarctica.
Agate comes in a variety of colours, and is characterised by alternating bands of different mineral compositions. This stone has been used in jewellery, amulets, and ornamental carvings for milennia. Green agate's vibrant, verdant hue makes it an eye-catching choice for statement jewellery.
The Origins of White Marble
Treasured for its timeless beauty, marble - from the Ancient Greek word for 'shining stone' - has been used in sculpture and architecture since antiquity. Its purity and strength has made it an enduring symbol of luxury all over the world.
Marble is also favoured for pietra dura, an intricate inlay technique favoured from Renaissance Italy to the Mughal Empire, where its most elaborate expression is found in the Taj Mahal.
Marble is also favoured for pietra dura, an intricate inlay technique favoured from Renaissance Italy to the Mughal Empire, where its most elaborate expression is found in the Taj Mahal.
Today, marble jewellery effortlessly evokes that rich history and classical beauty. Afghanistan is home to many high-quality marble quarries, with a wide variety of compositions found across the country.
Chunky Rings
Bold, yet timeless, our chunky rings are the perfect everyday statement. They also come in lapis lazuli and red carnelian.
Shop our complete collection of chunky rings, handcrafted by master artisans in the old city of Kabul, Afghanistan.
