From Quarry to Queen: The Journey of Alabaster Chess Sets

Few materials capture the elegance of a chess set quite like alabaster. With its softly translucent quality and rich colour variations, alabaster has been prized for centuries, not just for sculpture, but for functional art. In the world of chess, it transforms ordinary pieces into striking, tactile treasures. But how exactly does this stone make the journey from raw mineral to refined chessboard? In this post, we explore the fascinating path of alabaster chess sets - from the heart of the quarry to the top of the board.

⛏ Step One: Sourcing the Stone

Alabaster used in chess sets is typically quarried in central Italy, especially in the region of Volterra, Tuscany. This area has been associated with alabaster carving since Etruscan times, and it remains one of the most prominent centres of the craft today.

Alabaster is a soft, fine-grained form of gypsum or calcite, depending on local geology. It can range in colour from pure white to rich honey, black, green, pink, or even blue, depending on the mineral content. Its softness makes it ideal for intricate carving, while its natural translucency gives it a glow under light that’s hard to replicate with synthetic materials.

🔧 Step Two: Cutting and Shaping

After extraction, the stone is cut into large blocks and transported to artisanal workshops, such as Scali Alabastro. Skilled stoneworkers then saw the alabaster into smaller slabs or cubes, selecting the clearest, most colour-consistent pieces for chess use.

Turning the stone into chess pieces is done with a lathe and hand tools. Each pawn, bishop, rook, or knight starts from a solid chunk that is turned and chiselled with care. Because alabaster is more delicate than wood or resin, this process demands a light touch and years of experience.

Notably, the knights - often the most intricate pieces - are shaped individually, with special attention paid to the mane, jawline, and facial features. In a full set, it’s not uncommon for these to vary slightly due to the handcrafted nature of the work.

🎨 Step Three: Polishing and Finishing

Once carved, the alabaster pieces are sanded smooth and hand-polished using fine abrasives and waxes. This is what brings out the stone’s natural lustre. Some pieces may be lightly oiled or sealed to protect against moisture and wear, while others are left untreated to age naturally.

For two-tone sets, the darker side is often made from a colored alabaster variant, such as red or blue, or a lighter stone that has been dyed using mineral-based pigments. This is done in a way that preserves the marbling and depth of the natural material.

Chessboards are often constructed from matching alabaster squares in a mosaic pattern, bonded to a wooden or composite base for strength. These boards are polished to a mirror-like finish that beautifully complements the pieces.

📦 Step Four: Packaging and Presentation

Because alabaster is fragile compared to other materials, the sets must be carefully packed in foam-lined boxes or wooden cases to prevent damage. Many high-end sets come in hinged presentation boxes with compartments for each individual piece, offering not only protection but an elegant storage solution.

Why Choose Alabaster?

• Aesthetic appeal: The glossy, luminous finish and rich colour make alabaster sets striking display pieces.

• Cool to the touch: The weight and temperature of the stone offer a satisfying tactile experience.

• Italian craftsmanship: Most alabaster sets are still made in family-run workshops with generations of knowledge behind them.

• Unique character: No two pieces are exactly the same, thanks to the stone’s natural veining and hand-finishing.

Final Thoughts

An alabaster chess set isn’t just for playing - it’s for admiring. Whether you’re a collector, a casual player, or looking for a gift with timeless appeal, alabaster delivers both beauty and heritage. From the ancient hills of Tuscany to the surface of your chessboard, each piece carries with it a story carved in stone.