Cut by hand
Engravers cut words, symbols or geometric designs into metal by hand, including Quranic verses and prayers. The engraving may be sunk into the surface or raised from it, and metals such as gold and silver are sometimes combined.
The craft produces jewellery and household objects, often given as wedding gifts or used in religious rituals.
Who keeps it
People of all ages and genders practise it, and through it they express cultural, religious and regional identity.
The skill passes within families, by watching and doing, and is also taught in workshops at training centres, organisations and universities. UNESCO listed it in 2023 on a joint nomination from ten Arab countries, including Saudi Arabia.