How Marble Inlay (Pietra Dura) Is Made in Agra

Marble inlay, known as pietra dura, is a decorative technique that dates back to the construction of the Taj Mahal in the 17th century. Agra artisans continue the tradition today, hand-cutting semi-precious stones and colored marble into intricate floral and geometric patterns set into a white or colored marble base.

The process starts with a design drawn onto the marble slab, followed by hand-chiseling of cavities for each inlay piece. Stones such as malachite, lapis lazuli, and carnelian (or more affordable substitutes for commercial-grade pieces) are shaped individually and set with adhesive, then polished flush with the surface.

For B2B buyers, it's worth distinguishing between fully hand-inlaid pieces (higher cost, longer lead time, heirloom quality) and semi-mechanized or painted-finish alternatives that mimic the look at a lower price point for volume retail. Asra Global can source both tiers depending on your target price point.