Our Inspiring Journey

The history of Turquoise Inlaying

Turquoise inlaying (called Firooze Koobi in the Persian language) is an Iranian art of combining turquoise with metals such as copper, brass, silver, nickel, or bronze. Firooze (which was named initially “Pirouzeh” meaning victory in the Persian language) is one of the most precious stones in the world. From the depth of the earth, a sky-colored gemstone is extracted that people have adored and esteemed for thousands of years, believing that it has magical powers, such as transmitting peace and tranquility to its owner.
Moreover, this stone is very effective in strengthening the function of the heart, eyes, respiratory system, liver, and digestive organs. In Europe, It iscalled Turquoise, meaning Turkish, because this stone from Iranian mines was imported to Europe by way of Anatolia.
Iranian artists and craftsmen have created many world-famous and precious artistic works using a variety of materials and techniques. One of these Iranian handicrafts that have attracted a great number of art lovers from all over the world is turquoise inlaying handmade.
Turquoise inlaying is very similar to mosaic art since the stones are put together and attached to a metal base with great precision, creativity, and delicacy. It is a very popular and eye-catching Iranian handicraft that can be used for practical and decorative purposes.

What is Firoozeh Koobi or Turquoise Inlaying?

Turquoise Inlaying (or Firooze Koobi) is one of the newest Iranian arts that dates back at least 50 years ago. After almost twenty years, the industry was brought from Mashhad to Isfahan by another craftsman named Haj Dadash. Over time, many Isfahani artisans became interested in this industry and created many beautiful and valuable works of art. It is a luxurious and glamourous modern art that brings together a great harmony of red copper and green and blue turquoise.

Turquoise is found predominantly in Neishabour (that sometimes called the turquoise land), a city located in the northeast of Iran. There are many turquoise mines in this city that have supplied the world with turquoise for at least two millennia.
Despite turquoise’s origin in Neishabour and turquoise inlaying’s birthplace in Mashhad, turquoise inlaying has developed in Isfahan in less than a decade. Currently, Isfahan is the center of excellence for this art.
In Isfahan, in addition to jewelry and accessories, turquoise inlaying has been used also on many different containers and utensils like plates, trays, candy dishes, fruit bowls, rose-water sprinklers, vases, candlesticks, mirror frames, photo frames, tea sets, turquoise inlaid flying saucers, and many others.