Japanese the Light of Hand-Cut Abalone Glassware

Greetings from Japan Treasures. Our mission is to bridge the gap between Japan’s exquisite traditional crafts and the rest of the world, sharing the stories and artistry that define our culture.

In this project, we are proud to introduce Amano Shikki (Amano Lacquerware), a collection steeped in Japan’s rich cultural heritage. We are offering a new, specially curated tableware set that brings together three distinct pieces: a Golden Sakazuki (Sake Cup), a Glass, and a Wine Glass. This set has been newly planned and composed specifically for this project—these pieces have never before been offered as a combined collection.

Founded in 1892, Amano Shikki has preserved the techniques and aesthetic sensibilities of Takaoka Lacquerware for over 130 years. The hallmark of this craft is Raden (Mother-of-Pearl Inlay)—a breathtaking art form created by processing and applying abalone shells, one delicate piece at a time.

Traditionally, Raden (Mother-of-Pearl Inlay) has been treated almost exclusively as a decorative ornament or a piece of fine art. However, we believe that this profound beauty should not be reserved only for special occasions—it should be enjoyed in the moments of your everyday life.

We invite you to experience the world of Amano Shikki, a collection that truly comes to life when placed upon your dining table.

Amano Shikki is a brand based in Takaoka, Toyama Prefecture, that creates products for modern lifestyles by drawing on the traditional techniques of Takaoka Lacquerware, a craft with over a century of history.

Since our founding in 1892, we have remained dedicated to developing products that embody Japanese “Omotenashi” (hospitality), always asking ourselves: “Would I use this?” and “Would I buy this?”

Our philosophy, which we have upheld for over 130 years, is not about chasing trends but about craftsmanship intended for lifelong use.

This project is a natural extension of that very mission. We have taken Raden (mother-of-pearl inlay)—traditionally a technique reserved for appreciation as fine art—and transformed it into tableware for everyday use. In doing so, we offer a new kind of value: a craft that truly becomes complete only when it is used.

To preserve tradition does not mean simply leaving the past as it is. It means evolving with the times while carrying the essence of the craft into the future.

Amano Shikki continues that challenge today.

“Raden” is a type of Aogai-nuri (blue-shell coating), a traditional decorative technique that uses iridescent shells like abalone or turbo shells that shimmer like a rainbow.

While Raden typically uses shells with a thickness of 0.3mm, a distinctive feature of Takaoka Lacquerware is the use of extremely thin shells, as thin as 0.1mm. By using these incredibly thin shells, the underlying lacquer subtly shows through, giving the shells a mystical blue glow. This extraordinary thinness is the very foundation of its beauty.

Every piece used in our Raden inlay is meticulously cut from natural abalone shells. Because these shells are creations of nature, the hue and brilliance of each individual piece are unique—no two are ever exactly alike.

The artisan begins by closely observing the “expression” of each shell.
Where does the light dwell within it?
At what angle should it be cut to radiate its most brilliant glow?
These tiny fragments, meticulously carved out, eventually become the “protagonists” that shine within each glass.

Suri-urushi is a technique of rubbing lacquer into the surface, rather than simply painting it on. We meticulously work the lacquer into the gaps of the Raden, across its surface, and deep into the base—over and over, and over again. The purpose of this process is to “lock in” the brilliance.

It protects the shell’s light, grants the durability needed for daily use, and creates an expression that grows more beautiful with time. It is a quiet, understated task. Yet, this very process is the cornerstone that transforms raw beauty into “value that lasts for a lifetime.”

These glasses are not intended solely for special occasions. They have been thoughtfully designed for effortless, everyday use at your dining table. Despite their intricate appearance, the Raden inlay has minimal surface unevenness, making the pieces surprisingly easy to wash. We have ensured the durability required for daily life by reinforcing them through the rigorous Suri-urushi process.

Beautiful, yet functional. This is the fundamental principle of craftsmanship that Amano Shikki has upheld for over 130 years.

These glasses are not yet “finished” while sitting on a shelf. The final step of the process is the very drink you pour.

Whether it is sake, water, wine, or a cocktail—the moment liquid fills the clear glass, the Raden catches the light and begins to shimmer as if floating in mid-air. From one angle, it glows softly; from another, it flickers like a kaleidoscope. Even with the same drink, the exact same brilliance is never born twice. In this fleeting moment, the 130-year-old techniques of Takaoka Lacquerware and your daily life become one.

Traditional Japanese craft that is completed through use.
We invite you to experience the “completion” of this artistry at your own dining table.

Product Lineup

The “Shiho” (Four Treasures) pattern features fragments of Raden scattered like precious gemstones. When a liquid is poured, the light reflects and refracts, causing colors to spread and shift like a kaleidoscope. With its expression changing at every angle, this is a vessel where the craft is truly “completed” by the very act of using it.

A design featuring meticulously cut fragments of Raden, laid out like the rhythmic stones of an Ishigaki (Stone Wall). When a liquid is poured, layers of light intertwine, creating a radiance with profound depth. This is a vessel for savoring the craft, inviting you to enjoy its quiet, ever-changing expressions.

Sakura blossoms of Raden, blooming from within the deep vermilion.
When a liquid is poured, the light reflects off the petals, causing them to scatter and spread like a kaleidoscope. This is a Kinpai (Golden Sake Cup) crafted for those special moments, evoking both a sense of brilliant splendor and a touch of fleeting beauty.

Sakura blossoms of Raden, floating within a world of deep black.
When a liquid is poured, the light converges, and the petals begin to glow with a quiet yet steady brilliance. This is a Kinpai (Golden Sake Cup) crafted for a moment of calm—allowing you to savor the dignified, lingering beauty of every sip.

An “Orizuru” (Paper Crane) of light, meticulously crafted from individual pieces of Raden.
As if quietly spreading its wings within the glass, its expression shifts with every angle and the liquid poured inside. Each time you pour, the changing brilliance guides your daily ritual into a moment of special significance.

A design featuring finely crushed Raden, arranged to evoke the strength and rhythm of an Ishigaki (stone wall).
When a liquid is poured, the rings of light expand and rise, appearing as if they are floating in three dimensions. The radiance, which seems to gently envelop everything around it, adds a profound depth of color to your quiet moments.

A design featuring Red Mount Fuji, drawn in crimson light, resting quietly at the bottom of the glass.
As the liquid is poured, the silhouette of the mountain emerges, revealing a simultaneous sense of power and serenity. Reflecting the very symbol of Japan, this glass is a fitting companion for the start of a new day or a celebratory toast to life’s milestones.

Sakura blossoms of Raden, dancing at the bottom of the glass.
As they catch the light, the petals softly emerge, adding a quiet, lingering beauty to every sip you pour. Regardless of the season, this glass reflects the timeless aesthetics of Japan, allowing you to feel the gentle breath of spring whenever you hold it.

Sakura blossoms of Raden, floating along the stem of deep, black lacquer.
The jet-black finish strikes a bold contrast with the wine in the glass, heightening its color while exuding a quiet, dignified beauty. A piece of graceful artistry, this wine glass is designed to accompany you through evening dinners and your most cherished moments.

Sakura blossoms of Raden, blooming along a stem of vermilion lacquer.
When wine is poured, the clarity of the glass and the warmth of the vermilion harmonize to create a brilliant, lingering presence. This crafted wine glass is designed to make every special sip more memorable and vibrantly colored.

A design featuring Raden arranged like an Ishigaki (stone wall) upon a base of deep black lacquer.
The subtle shimmer of the shell fragments catches the light, heightening the wine’s color while exuding a quiet, steady presence. This is a crafted wine glass of dignified elegance and weight, designed to accompany you through moments of calm and reflection.

A design featuring Raden arranged in an Ishigaki (stone wall) pattern upon a base of vibrant vermilion lacquer.
With every touch of light, the colors of the shell rise brilliantly, adding a bright and festive radiance to your glass of wine. Combining elegance with a sense of celebration, this crafted wine glass is a perfect companion for toasts and special occasions.

Sakura blossoms of gold leaf and Raden, blooming within the crystal-clear glass.
As you pour sake, the golden shimmer spreads gently, harmonizing with the unique transparency of the Chirori. This is a vessel crafted for a truly special sake experience, making even the act of pouring a beautiful performance.

What is a Chirori?
A Chirori is a traditional Japanese vessel designed for enjoying sake at its best. By placing ice or hot water in the outer chamber, you can gently chill or warm the sake without diluting it. This allows you to savor the full flavor of the sake at its ideal temperature.

The “Decorative Plate: Red Fuji (Raden Inlay)” stands as one of the most special pieces in this project.
It delicately captures the beauty of Mount Fuji glowing in red through traditional raden craftsmanship.

The subtle shimmer of the mother-of-pearl changes with the light, adding depth and a quiet presence to any space.

By choosing this add-on, you’re not simply selecting a decorative item, but a truly special piece that also supports the future of traditional craftsmanship.