Short answer
Pietra dura is stone inlay: thin pieces of coloured stone, such as lapis lazuli, malachite and mother-of-pearl, are cut by hand and set into marble so tightly that the joints almost disappear. In India it is often called parchin kari, and it is the inlay seen on the Taj Mahal.
How pietra dura is made
A design is drawn at full size. Each piece of coloured stone is cut and shaped by hand to its outline, then a matching recess is carved into the marble. The pieces are set flush into the recesses and the whole surface is ground and polished as one.
Because every piece is cut by hand, the work is slow, and the quality shows in how tight the joints are and how smoothly a curve or a petal is shaped.
Which stones are used
Common inlay stones include lapis lazuli for blue, malachite for green, mother-of-pearl for a soft sheen, and carnelian, jasper and onyx for reds and browns. Brass line inlay can be added for borders and geometry.
Where it is used
Pietra dura can be laid into floors and medallions, feature walls and alcoves, dining and coffee table tops, and the outer faces of bathtubs. See our inlays and inlay dining tables.
Caring for inlaid stone
Clean with a soft cloth and a pH-neutral stone cleaner. Avoid acidic cleaners, which etch marble and some inlay stones, and blot spills straight away. On tables, use coasters under glasses and hot dishes. Our marble care guide covers the details.