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From the Crystal Cabin Gallery archives. A collection of Argillite carvings by Haida Carvers from Haida Gwaii.
Argillite is a type of slate. Black argillite from the islands of Haida Gwaii is unique compared to other types of argillite due to its geological composition and ability to hold strong while being carved. Historically and today, the Haida people own the exclusive rights to use argillite. Skilled Haida artists continue to create highly collectible argillite jewelry and Haida argillite carvings out of this black stone.
Argillite Human Riding Killer Whale Carving by Haida artist Melanie Russ
Argillite, also known as the ‘gem of Haida Gwaii’, can be identified by it’s smooth, black exterior. To learn more about identifying argillite, visit our blog: How to Identify Real vs. Imitation Argillite. The natural stone is a soft greyish black, and reveals a striking, shiny black finish when worked by carvers. As you wear a piece of argillite jewelry, the natural oils of your skin will enhance the stone’s natural beauty. Often inlaid with abalone, mother of pearl or other semi-precious materials, this black slate has become a featured material in Haida artwork.
This argillite piece represents the Haida Bear Mother Story and is carved by the late Haida Artist, Michael J. Brown.
The Geology of Argillite
Local argillite has a unique geological composition compared to argillites found in other areas. As Haida Gwaii argillite formed it was exposed to very high temperatures, which helped to solidify and strengthen this clay-like sedimentary material. This high heat resulted in a stone of very fine and highly compacted particles. For this reason, the argillite from Haida Gwaii is perfect for carving layer by layer to expose fine details. In comparison, other argillite from around the world is similar to a brittle shale and has a tendency to split and chip. Argillite from Haida Gwaii is from the geological formation called the Haida Formation. This stone is approximately 80 million years old from the Cretaceous Period.
Meet Haida Argillite Carvers
We are fortunate to feature two incredible female argillite carvers here at the gallery. Haida artists Amy Edgars and Melanie Russ who are keeping this tradition alive.
Meet Haida Artist Amy Edgars
Amy Edgars is a Haida artist from Old Massett, British Columbia. She was inspired by her late father, Myles Edgars, to pursue the art of argillite carving. Amy began carving at the age of 16. "I saw my dad and others carving every day, so I thought I better sit down and try it out," says Amy. Shop her collection.
Meet Haida Artist Melanie Russ
Melanie Russ is the daughter of the late Haida artists, Faye Russ and Ed Russ, and is originally from Skidegate, Haida Gwaii. Her father began teaching her to carve when she was a very young girl and though he passed away some time ago, she expresses the feeling that he is still with her, guiding her, reminding her to look at the rough argillite, then to close her eyes and a design will come. Shop her collection!
Argillite Hummingbird Carving by Haida artist, Amy Edgars
We offers a local selection of Haida argillite in-store or online. For custom argillite carvings please contact us and we would be happy to help you find the perfect piece.
