Craft · No. 204
No. 204貴石細工
Wakasa Agate Work
若狭めのう細工
wakasa agate work · 福井県
Wakasa Agate Work is a traditional gem-carving craft centered in Obama City, Fukei Prefecture, in which natural agate stones are meticulously cut, ground, and polished into ornaments, figurines, and decorative objects distinguished by their rich, translucent color and smooth luster.
- Origin
- 福井県
- Category
- 貴石細工
- Materials
- Stone · 砂 · 金剛砂
- Designation
- Nat'l Traditional Craft
No. IHistory
The Wakasa region, historically known as a land of abundant offerings to the imperial court, developed strong trade connections with the Asian contine…
No. IIMaterials
The primary material is natural agate (menou), sourced both domestically and from overseas origins such as Brazil and Uruguay. Agate is a semi-preciou…
No. IIITechniques
The production process is divided into four main stages: rough cutting, shaping, polishing, and finishing. First, the raw stone is roughly cut using i…
No. IVClimate
Obama City, facing Wakasa Bay, enjoys a warm and humid coastal climate and has historically served as a key maritime gateway linking Japan to continen…
