Aqeeq, akik or aqiq (Arabic: العقيق) means quartz in Arabic, and agate in Turkish, however in the context of rings usually refers to a ring set with a chalcedony stone. Well-known types of chalcedony are carnelian, agate, and onyx. It is considered a semi-precious gem stone, and rings set with golden-orange variety of carnelian or sard have special significance in the Islamic religion.

A geode of chalcedony richly colored by hematite that gives it its rusty hues and marks it as Akik[contradictory]

Jewellery preparation

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A stone is ground into shape (often a cabochon or a short, wide cylinder) and polished to a shine. Sometimes the flat surface is engraved with a religious motto in Arabic, which is sometimes inlaid with gold. The finished gem is then mounted on a ring according to the stones finished size. Both men and women wear aqiq rings as jewellery.

Islamic significance

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Qasem Soleimani wearing an aqeeq ring

An aqeeq ring also has religious importance in Islam as it is considered sunnah to wear one. Muhammad wore a carnelian / aqiq ring set with silver as a commemoration of the removal of idols from the Grand Mosque in Mecca in 630 CE. Many Muslims do the same, including both Shia and Sunni clergy.[1]

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References

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  1. ^ "Wearing Rings and Gemstones in Islam: Philosophy and Benefits". 23 November 2018.