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Ambaji's celebrated white marble, sourced from the sacred pilgrimage site and Shaktipeeth in Gujarat, received a Geographical Indication (GI) tag earlier this week, marking a significant recognition of its purity, durability and historic value. The registration, granted by the Geographical Indications Registry under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry, formally acknowledges the stone's unique qualities linked to its place of origin. Officials and industry representatives noted that the GI tag is expected to strengthen Ambaji marble's global identity, enhance its demand in international markets, and support the growth of local quarrying and artisanal communities.
Ambaji's revered white marble earned a Geographical Indication (GI) tag earlier this week, confirming its status as a high-quality natural stone with attributes linked specifically to the region's geological heritage. The registration was issued under the name of the Ambaji Marbles Quarry and Factory Association in Banaskantha district by the Geographical Indications Registry of the Ministry of Commerce and Industry. Advertisement
Banaskantha District Collector Mihir Patel remarked that the Government of India had conferred this recognition on the pure white marble sourced from Ambaji's sacred landscape. He stated that, alongside its spiritual importance, the Ambaji Shaktipeeth had now attained a special position in the global marble industry. He also extended his congratulations to the people of the district and the marble association for achieving what he described as a significant accomplishment.
Chief Minister Bhupendra Patel, writing on X, expressed that the GI tag brought pride and happiness to Gujarat. He observed that Ambaji marble had long been valued for its distinct shine and aesthetic appeal, particularly in the construction of religious sites, and added that the new recognition would enhance its brand value globally. He noted that the tag would likely increase demand in both domestic and international markets, benefitting local businesses and encouraging skilled artisans. He also extended his best wishes to Banaskantha's residents and those associated with the sector.
Ambaji-based marble industrialist Kiranbhai Trivedi explained that a GI tag is reserved for products of exceptional quality. He said the marble mines in the region were between 1,200 and 1,500 years old, tracing their use back to the construction of the Dilwara Jain Temple in Mount Abu. He pointed out that the temple's enduring condition served as evidence of the stone's remarkable strength and purity, noting that even the stones of the Taj Mahal had shown signs of ageing while Ambaji marble remained unchanged.
He added that Ambaji's white marble had been used in temples not only across Gujarat but also overseas, including in Miami, Los Angeles, Boston, New Zealand and England. Known for being calcium-rich and structurally strong, the marble is also believed to have been used during the construction of the Ram Temple in Ayodhya owing to its durability.
A recent survey indicated that Ambaji marble contains minerals such as silicon oxide and calcium oxide. The GI tag, officials noted, helps legally safeguard the unique identity and authenticity of products tied to their geographical origin, while simultaneously increasing their market value and export potential.
The conferment of the GI tag on Ambaji's white marble marks a major step in protecting and promoting one of Gujarat's most historically significant natural resources. With its proven durability, aesthetic qualities and centuries-old legacy, the marble now stands to benefit from stronger market positioning and enhanced global recognition. Local industries, artisans and quarry operators are expected to gain from the increased visibility and demand that typically follow GI certification. The development reaffirms Ambaji's longstanding stature in the marble trade and strengthens its cultural and economic relevance at both national and international levels.
Source - PTI
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