Thoukidides mirror • Green

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It all began with a trip to the island of Tinos, in the Greek Aegean sea for designer, Faye Tsakalides of Marble Rituals.

In the sun-dappled villages of the Greek island of Tinos, in the Cyclades, huge clumps of marble spout out of the ground like daisies. In days gone by, the demand for this glittering rock to be turned into functional, immortal sculptures and objects was high. The light there is extraordinary. A hazy dapple that is unique even by sun-drenched Mediterranean standards. In these villages, the endless expanse of white crystalline rock reflects the golden sun, making the entire places glitter. 

Being fascinated, she couldn’t stop thinking about all these sustainable forms and mindful objects that could come to existence - offering us unique home and personal experiences - unprecedented rituals and new born routines. A new mission was born.

They collect the finest marble blocks from the quarries in Tinos and Greece mainland. A network of internal roads enables them and the machinery to move without obstacles. The quarries are well organized and easily accessible. The choice of marble is crucial. It is important to find the right block. It must be pure, with not a single deformity or impurity.

The blocks are transferred to the local workshops. When it comes to creating beautiful pieces from natural stone, there is no substitute for traditional craftsmanship. Being a natural material - the stone - no two blocks are alike and they must therefore be categorised by tonality. They undergo some sort of cutting and processing that involves a machine. Then comes the craftsmen. The experienced artisan, recognises and values the unique characteristics of its stone that are simply part of their make-up and fascination. They treat them with respect and care.

There is no substitute for the human hand and eye when it comes to working with this material. Hand finishing releases the warmth and the true essence of stone, allowing every single product, from the smallest paperweight or soap dish to an oversize dining table, to tell its own unique story.

We respect the glorious and varied veining, the consequence of a metamorphic process that takes place over millions of years.

From choosing the correct surface of marble to work on to knowing that a piece just needs one last gentle pass of abrasive paper to be absolutely perfect, this is the skill of a true craftsman. They also understand in depth how its veining or particular patterning will impact on the look of the final product.

This is the magic of a material that is gifted to us by nature, enhanced then by human interpretation.

Are all Marble Rituals pieces sealed ?

Yes, all the pieces leave the factory pre-sealed. Since painting the surface of the lovely stones with transparent paints or resins is not preferred, three coats of the highest possible level of protective penetrating sealant is applied. This will preserve both your piece and the natural feel of the stone. That said, please bear in mind that there is no sealer on the market that can make a natural stone 100% stain proof, especially if you leave the staining agent on it for a prolonged period. The sealant allows you to have a few hours between the moment the staining agent (for example, coffee or perfume) comes in contact with the stone and the moment you wipe it off. So, if coffee somehow spills on your piece, you will need to wipe it off within a few hours to avoid permanent staining.

Will my Marble Rituals piece stain ?

Marble is a natural, porous material so be careful not to leave water or liquid for long periods of time on the marble as it will soak in and possibly leave a mark. Many of our products can be used in the kitchen or bathroom, however, some soaps or lotions may contain acidic or oily components, which may mark the marble and leave a bruised shadow appearance. Acidic products such as lemon or vinegar, strong pigments and oily products may dull or stain the marble. Stains usually turn a dull yellow or bruised grey tone - don’t be scared to keep using your piece. It is merely a sign of good use and love!

Are all Marble Rituals pieces exactly the same ?

The pieces are handmade and marble is a natural material, so every piece may differ slightly in size and colour toning. All of the pieces are unique, with different veining and patterning, making each piece uniquely beautiful.No two pieces of stone are alike.

How do I care for my Marble Rituals piece ?

Marble is a fragile product, so please treat your marble pieces with love and respect as they are breakable. After use, wipe out with a neutral cleaner like a mild dishwashing detergent with warm water and pat dry immediately.

Is it normal for Marble rituals pieces to have imperfections such as cracks or fissures ?

Stone is a natural material, that comes deep from the earth, so it may contain fissures, cracks, holes, pits and natural yellowing or browning can be present. Our pieces are a Relic of the Earth and capture a moment in time. We welcome these characteristics as a sign of a truly marvellous world.

What do I do if I have marked my piece ?

If you mark your piece, you can try to lift the stain with dishwashing detergent and warm water. If this fails, we do not advise any other home methods and this should be done so at your own risk. Please don’t fret if you stain your Marble Rituals piece. Small markings and “patina” only add character and appreciation of use and should not deter you from continuing to use your piece. Welcome these unique qualities that add to the already beautiful natural material.