Swedish Porfyr is often referred to as the “Swedish diamond” or “The royal stone.” One of the most unique type of porphyry, is found in the small village of Älvdalen, located in the northern countryside of Dalarna. Porphyry is a rare stone, found in only a few locations around the world, and Älvdalen is one of those special places. The stone’s distinctive pattern is the result of minerals formed by an ancient volcano, giving it a natural beauty unlike any other.
Porphyrhy from Älvdalen, at the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm.
Porphyrhy from Älvdalen, at the Nationalmuseum in Stockholm.
Porphyry craftsmanship has been a proud and important tradition in our village for centuries. In the 18th century, the King of Sweden was as captivated by Älvdals Porphyry as we are today. He was so enamored by the stone’s unique patterns and colors that he commissioned exclusive gifts made from porphyry for his friends and acquaintances. Today, you can find vases and other exquisite items crafted from the same blocks of stone, sourced from the same forests, in Buckingham Palace in London, Château du Champ de Bataille, and various other castles throughout Europe.
