Agate Stone Craft of Cambay, Gujarat

The existence of Agate mines at Ratnapur and Rajpipla date back to A.D. 77. Cambay is best known for shaping agate stones and the method of processing agates used by the artisans here still surpasses that of their overseas competitors. The stones are broken into the required pieces, and these pieces are heated, chiseled, bleached, and surfaced. The finishing touch is given by polishing. The artisans craft jewellery like ear rings, nose rings, bangles, and necklaces, along with buttons, trays, ashtrays, and paperweights.