Ambaji Marble Earns GI Tag

• 17 Nov 2025

Source: TH

Ambaji marble from Gujarat has been granted the Geographical Indication (GI) tag, recognising its unique white stone and strengthening its cultural, industrial and global identity.

• Origin: Ambaji marble quarried in Ambaji town of Banaskantha district, Gujarat, a major pilgrimage site and Shaktipeeth.
• Unique Qualities: It is known for its pure white colour, exceptional shine, high calcium content and remarkable durability. 
  • Its durability is often compared to other historical stones, including those used in the Taj Mahal and it is widely used in temples and sacred architecture, it is valued for both its aesthetic appeal and strength.
• Significance: Ambaji marble is exported for temple architecture to cities such as Miami, Los Angeles, Boston, and to countries like New Zealand and England.
  • The marble mines of Ambaji are believed to be 1,200–1,500 years old and were used in the construction of the Dilwara Jain Temple in Mount Abu.
• Implications of GI Tag: A GI tag is a type of Intellectual property right (IPR) that identifies products with qualities linked to a specific region and protects them from imitation. 

  • It is valid for 10 years, renewable, and regulated by Department for Promotion of Industry and Internal Trade under the Ministry of Commerce and Industry

  • GI tag will help build a distinct brand identity, enhance market demand, and support local industries and artisans.
  • GI recognition safeguards authenticity, prevents imitation, and improves export competitiveness.

Marble

• Marble is a metamorphic rock formed when limestone undergoes high heat and pressure, causing its calcite to recrystallise into a denser mass of interlocking crystals. 
  • Mostly made of calcite (CaCO₃) and may include clay, mica, quartz, pyrite, iron oxides or graphite. Marble colours come from small impurities present during metamorphism. 

Read more: Rocks