The game of chess is as much an art as it is a sport – that’s why your choice of chess set can matter, especially if you’re looking for certain qualities. Sets from different parts of the world can differ in terms of material, design, and craftsmanship, so there are plenty of options to choose from.
In this blog post, we will explore three of the main countries where chess sets are produced and explain a little bit about what makes these unique.
Indian 🇮🇳
India is known for its wealth of expert artisans when it comes to the production of chess pieces. Chess workshops in areas such as Amritsar utilise many different types of wood, and you can expect the pieces, especially the knights, to be carved with a profound level of detail unmatched by most others. They produce anything from entry-level right up to luxury, and you can expect the same vetted craftsman to be working on this whole range. The knight’s carvings are usually left to those who have many years of experience, though, as it can take up to two weeks to produce a set of knights!
Italian 🇮🇹
Italy has long been celebrated for its woodworking traditions, particularly in the art of marquetry and fine furniture, and this extends into chessboard production. Italian workshops, especially those in regions like Florence and Sorrento, are known for creating striking inlaid chessboards using woods such as walnut, elm burl, and maple, from manufacturers such as Italfama. These boards often feature intricate veneer work, high-gloss finishes, and geometric precision that transforms them into functional works of art. While the chess pieces themselves are often sourced from elsewhere, the boards made in Italy are widely regarded as some of the most luxurious and decorative available, making them a favourite among collectors and gift buyers.
British 🇬🇧
The United Kingdom holds a special place in the history of chess sets, being the birthplace of the iconic Staunton design, which is still the tournament standard to this day. While full-scale production of wooden pieces is now less common in Britain, several respected names such as Jaques of London and Berkeley Chess continue to operate. These UK-based companies focus on high-end traditional sets and distinctive themed ranges, many of which are cast in crushed stone resin and hand-painted in England. The emphasis here is often on heritage, quality control, and design curation, with many British retailers working directly with international workshops to uphold consistent craftsmanship across their product lines.
Whether you’re after the handcrafted detail of India, the elegance of Italian marquetry, or the heritage of British design, your chess set says something about your taste and priorities. Each region brings something distinct to the board and to your living room or tournament table.
