Discovering Malta Stone’s Rich Legacy
Emily A. Francis visits Malta Stone in Ta’ Qali, a family-owned shop offering unique stone creations, custom jewellery, and rare gems.
Located in the scenic village of Ta’ Qali, Malta Stone is much more than just a shop—it’s a tribute to Malta’s rich artisanal heritage. Founded in 1969 by Reuben Schembri’s father, this family-owned business has grown into a renowned destination for stone enthusiasts, collectors, and admirers of natural beauty. Reuben has carried on his father’s traditions, preserving the craftsmanship while infusing it with his own passion for stones and gems from around the world.
As you step inside Malta Stone, you’re greeted by a warm, welcoming atmosphere that invites you to explore the island’s finest natural treasures. From glittering gems and crystals to custom-made jewelry, stone tabletops, intricate wall clocks, and other one-of-a-kind creations, Malta Stone showcases a world of artistry crafted from the earth’s natural resources.
From Maltese Calcite to Global Treasures
Malta Stone’s roots lie deep in the local landscape. Originally, the store focused solely on Maltese calcite—an exquisite stone sourced from the island’s own limestone quarries. Reuben and his father began their journey by crafting beautiful, handcrafted items from these locally sourced stones, establishing a reputation for creating exquisite clocks from raw stone slabs. The clocks remain one of Malta Stone’s most iconic creations, each one a unique work of art that reflects both the island’s natural beauty and the artisans’ skill.
Though local calcite still remains a cornerstone of the shop’s offerings, Malta Stone has since expanded its horizons, incorporating stones from all over the world. Reuben now curates a breathtaking selection of rare and exotic stones, each with its own unique story. Some of the prized items in the store include hard-to-find apophyllite crystals, stunning desert rose selenite formations, and massive amethyst geodes. These treasures, sourced from different corners of the globe, make Malta Stone a must-visit destination for collectors seeking rare and striking pieces.
Craftsmanship That Honours Nature’s Beauty
At the heart of Malta Stone is Reuben’s philosophy of respecting and showcasing the natural beauty of each stone. Every piece begins its journey as a raw slab, brought in to Reuben’s stone cutter, who carefully slices one side of the slab to reveal what they call “the window of the stone.” This first glimpse into the stone’s core reveals its true character—its colors, textures, and patterns. It’s this moment that guides Reuben and his team in deciding how to best shape the stone into a beautiful, functional piece.
Reuben has a deep understanding of each stone he works with. He instinctively knows how to highlight its natural features, ensuring that every clock, jewelry piece, or decorative item created at Malta Stone is truly one-of-a-kind. The store’s selection of clocks, in particular, has become a signature item, each crafted from raw slabs and featuring the stone’s natural, unpolished edge. These pieces blend elegance with the raw beauty of nature, making them treasured keepsakes.
A Paradise for Stone Collectors and Jewellery Lovers
For stone collectors, visiting Malta Stone is like stepping into a paradise of rare and beautiful minerals. The shop’s selection is constantly evolving, featuring a wide range of crystals, gems, and stones that are difficult to find elsewhere. Collectors will be especially delighted by the stunning display of apophyllite, amethyst, desert rose selenite, and more. The stones’ varying hues and intricate formations captivate the imagination and offer something for every type of enthusiast, whether they’re seasoned collectors or simply discovering a love for natural gems.
In addition to its stone collection, Malta Stone is well known for its custom jewellery services. If you’re looking to repair a cherished piece of jewellery or have something unique designed just for you, Reuben and his team offer personalised consultations to ensure your vision is brought to life. Their craftsmanship is impeccable, and their friendly, approachable service makes the process enjoyable from start to finish.
A Shop That Reflects Passion and Expertise
One of the standout qualities of Malta Stone is the passion that Reuben and his team bring to their work. The shop’s reputation has grown over the years not just because of the quality of their stones, but also due to the warmth and expertise that visitors experience when they walk through the door. Reuben’s deep understanding of stones and gems is matched by his friendly and welcoming nature, making each visit to Malta Stone feel personal and memorable.
Whether you’re a seasoned stone collector or a casual visitor looking for a special piece, you’ll leave with more than just a purchase—you’ll have a deeper appreciation for the beauty and significance of the natural world.
