From the moment Mahlia Interiors was established, just over 7 years ago, we had a special fascination with bone inlay. And why wouldn’t we? As well as its beauty and unique charm, there’s also the unmatched craftsmanship of the artisans who create each individual piece. Today we have a large range of interior décor items – from traditional tribal and rustic pieces to the latest word in contemporary, coastal and boho-chic ‘looks’ – but we still regard our bone inlay items as a ‘signature style’ and a primary focus. And our customers absolutely love them.
The story begins in Rajasthan, India. It’s a story of recycling an abundant natural resource and using traditional skills to make beautiful and unique items that you will treasure.
Produced with care and skill
Like our customers, Mahlia Interiors cares about animal welfare and protection of the environment. The production of bone inlay pieces is a non-exploitative industry. It uses ethically-sourced camel bones, collected from animals that die of natural causes. In India and Pakistan, the camel population is large enough to make this sustainable. Bones that would otherwise decay and release carbon into the atmosphere are preserved and transformed into stunning furniture, homewares and decorative items.
It’s important to know that India has strict wildlife and marine protection laws. Workshops are routinely inspected and every item exported must be accompanied with a Departmental Certificate to show that the raw materials were properly sourced.
The skills used in the making of bone inlay items today are the same as those used for hundreds of years. Some of the tools and techniques might have developed over the years but the fundamental methods are the same. Craftsmen pass on the techniques to the next generation and, in this way, they make sure their valuable skills are kept alive. The beautiful inlay products are also an important source of income that sustains the craftsmen and their families.
How are bone inlay products made?
After the bones are collected, they are taken to workshops in Rajasthan, in north western India. Craftsmen carve the fragments into specific shapes, then file and smooth them. The pieces might be shaped for delicate leaf and floral patterns, scallop or Japanese-inspired designs or they might be striking geometric chevron patterns and bolder modern looks.
The pieces are then arranged, mosaic-like, in detailed patterns on the items. The designs complement a range ofinterior décor choices, from traditional Raj and Moroccan to modern western and eclectic styles.
Furniture pieces are constructed by hand from various types of timber.
Mango wood is a popular choice. It’s a fast growing and highly water-resistant timber, which is strong and durable but lightweight. Because of the demand for mangoes, it is also plentiful. It is easy to work with and has an attractive colour and grain. All these factors make it ideal for furniture.
Teak substrate is another good choice – particularly recommended for locations where there’s high humidity, as it’s less likely to absorb moisture and warp.
Mahlia Interiors also sources many other timber products, such as trays, lamps and trinket boxes. When inlaid with camel bone, they are transformed into items you’ll treasure for years.
Once the patterns are complete, the spaces between the bone pieces are filled with hot, coloured resin. The piece is then left for several days and, when it has cooled and dried, the surface is sanded and polished to produce an exquisite, glowing finish.
Imagine a rich sky blue, offset with delicate arched patterns in ivory; our Arches 1 Drawer Bedside is a perfect example. Or add impact with striking black and white, sage green or oriental pink.
An alternative to camel bone is mother-of-pearl, named for its softly glowing surface, which is reminiscent of pearls. It is also known as ‘nacre’ and comes from the inner shell of abalone and other molluscs. It is a lustrous and extremely strong and resilient material. Our beautiful mother-of-pearl inlay pieces have an unmistakeable delicately toned finish, which combines perfectly with glowing resin in white or a range of colours.
Caring for your inlay product
Sometimes an extra protective layer – a polyurethane coating – is applied for an even ‘smoother to the touch’ and slightly glossier finish. An uncoated finish is also extremely durable, provided you give it the proper care.
To help you look after your precious inlay item, we have put together Tips for Caring for Your Inlay. Follow the easy directions and your new treasure will retain its beauty.
Whether bone or mother-of-pearl, inlay is special. Browse our whole collection. You’re sure to find something to suit your taste and décor.
Not only will you have a unique piece to enjoy in your home for years, you’ll also be helping families in the developing world and playing your part in supporting sustainable industries.
