Igrika is not just a brand, it’s a journey into the mystical and symbolic world of ancient Georgian culture. Founded by Grigol Dalakishvili and Baia Lomsadze, Igrika carries a rich heritage embedded in the stories; symbols, and traditions of Georgia. The name “Igrika” itself is a nod to the old Georgian word for April, the month when Grigol and Baia first crossed paths. Since that fateful meeting, they have been on a mission to bring the deep, symbolic beauty of Georgia’s past into the present, creating products that are far more than just items—they are experiences.
Grigol and Baia’s shared passion for symbolism and exploration of the unknown naturally led them to start Igrika. “We were always attracted to the mysterious world full of symbolism,” they explain. “We became explorers at heart, and now, we invite you to join us on this adventure.” At Igrika, they believe that their creations are more than just physical objects: they are vehicles for stories, history, and meaning that pass from their hands to yours.
Their slogan, “The story will keep narrating through you,” encapsulates the essence of Igrika’s mission. They don’t just want to share their discoveries with you – they want you to carry the stories forward. “When you encounter these treasures, it’s impossible not to become a keeper of them,” they explain, emphasizing the deep emotional connection they hope their products will inspire in those who experience them.
In today’s world of mass production, where items are made quickly and without personal connection, Igrika offers a refreshing alternative. Their products are hand-crafted, thoughtfully designed, and steeped in the cultural richness of Georgia. “In the 21st century, mass production has reached its peak, but people are beginning to realize that these machine-made products often lack authenticity,” says Grigol. “Our goal is to create things that resonate with people on a deeper level-pieces that carry meaning and warmth.”
Each Igrika product tells a story, whether through hand block printing, wood carving, or painting. The craftsmanship is not just in the finished piece, but in the process itself- researching ancient symbols, interpreting their meanings, and breathing life into them through design.
One of the most striking aspects of Igrika’s work is its focus on ancient symbols. A prime example is the “Moon Guard,” an emblem dating back to the 2nd millennium BC. This iconic figure is depicted as a warrior armed with two swords on his arms and two on his waist, with two dots on either side, symbolizing blessings. The Moon Guard is not just a symbol of strength, but represents both the Moon God and the God of War, making him the supreme deity in Georgian mythology.
Following the arrival of Christianity, the Moon Guard became associated with St. George, the revered protector and leader of the Georgians in every battle. This symbol is a powerful reminder of protection, courage, and spiritual strength, qualities Igrika aims to preserve through its creations. The Moon Guard is featured in several of Igrika’s products, making it a central figure in their collection and an enduring part of Georgia’s rich history.
Another standout offering from Igrika is the Ex Libris, a custom personal library stamp that represents a centuries-old tradition. These stamps, often featuring a monogram of the owner’s initials, carry a sense of pride and individuality. More than just a functional tool, an Ex Libris embodies one’s identity and a personal connection to the legacy of those who came before.
Igrika’s Ex Libris stamps can be customized and ordered through their website, offering a unique and meaningful addition to any library. It’s more than just a stamp; it’s a piece of history that reflects the owner’s personal story and legacy.
In 2024, Igrika expanded its reach with a new venture for children – RTO. This branch brings together educational games, memorable gifts, and an artistic world full of wonder. RTO’s debut product, a matching game featuring characters from Georgian folk tales, introduces children to the rich narratives of their cultural heritage. The game not only sparks curiosity, but also teaches valuable life lessons such as kindness, loyalty, wisdom, and humor.
The game’s design is available in eight languages, including Georgian, English, Polish, German, Italian, Spanish, Chinese, and Japanese, making it accessible to a global audience. Crafted from sustainably sourced paper and meeting European Union safety standards (EN-71), the RTO products are both safe and environmentally friendly, offering children a fun, educational, and meaningful experience.
Crafting Experiences, Not Just Products
For Grigol and Baia, Igrika is about creating more than just aesthetically pleasing products; it’s about crafting experiences that transport people into a world of meaning and connection. “When you open our packages, you don’t just receive a product – you uncover a story,” they say. Each product is thoughtfully packaged with informational cards in both Georgian and English, allowing customers to explore the mystical tales behind each design. This immersive experience helps people connect with the deeper meanings of the products, making them more than just objects to own, they become treasures to cherish.
Shop at Igrika here.
By Kesaria Katcharava
