Chess is an exciting game for some people because there is a lot of action involved on the board while non-players just see two people brooding over wooden pieces. The pieces in the chess set are always the same. They consist of the king, queen, bishops, knights, castles and pawns. Normally, these pieces are black and white, while the chessboard has black and white squares that are alternately arranged.

Chess players and chess manufacturers used this standard looking chess set for many decades. But this doesn’t mean that your chess set should look the same as others. Board games don’t have to look boring or the same as everyone else’s. There are chess sets that are made of different materials, which allow you to show your individuality to the rest of the world.

Chess sets are commonly made from wood while there are some that are made from glass, plastic or marble. A marble chess set is something that is very durable and elegant. While glass denotes the modern and the present, marble chess sets reflect tradition and a refined taste.  The main aspect of marble is that it is multi-colored and typically used for sculpture. However, this is only partially correct since there are many uses of marble, including the creation of well-crafted chessboards and pieces.

It is true that marble is commonly multi-colored, but since there are two opposing teams represented by different colors, a marble chess set needs to have different colors for each side. Manufacturers do not paint over the marble; instead there are different kinds of marble from all over the world that have unique colors. For example, in Italy, they have white or blue-gray marble while in Greece they have translucent marble. Belgium has red marble. These different types and colors are used to create the chessboard as well as the different pieces of the chess set.

Marble chess sets are very durable and can withstand extremes in weather and temperature.  Marble sets are excellent for use outdoors and can be left in the sunshine, rain or snow without being damaged. It can actually become a permanent fixture on your porch or patio, so you don’t have to be confined to playing chess indoors.

As with most things in life, marble chess sets come in a variety of qualities and prices.  It all depends on the size of the board and squares, the size of the chessmen, and the finish. Some sets are highly polished and exude a brilliant glossy finish, while others have lower quality sheen. They all look good, but the differences in quality can become very apparent when they are presented side by side.  Only your preference and wallet limit the type of set you choose.

Chess sets can vary in the materials, the color of the pieces and the actual physical appearance of the pieces. There are some manufacturers who create different themes for the different pieces, giving new life to the board game. Sitting down at a marble chess set will set the stage for an enjoyable game of chess.

When you think of a chess set, chances are you think of an old wooden board with plain pieces that those strange guys in college played with into the wee hours of the morning. And while there can be no argument that chess is certainly a great way to pass the time, there is a use for chess that you may not have thought of – decorating.

But why would you want to decorate a room with a game? Well, chances are you won’t be basing the entire room design around the set, but you should consider adding a decorative set to accent your current design. It’s time to let go of the notion of chess being simply a game, and start thinking of it as a decorating tool.

Of course, you can’t really justify decorating with an old musty board and cheap wooden pieces, can you? This is where you need to start thinking of a chess set as décor and not a hobby – a nice chess board and pieces (and possibly table) are going to run you a good bit of cash, and thinking of it as a hobby or game is going to make it that much more difficult to buy. But, if you start to consider it as an ornamental piece, then it becomes much more justifiable. After all, how much will you spend on a custom framed picture, or an ornate coffee table? They both qualify as decorations, but consider that nearly everyone has these – how many times have you seen an intricately carved chess set in someone’s house?

The benefits of having a chess set as a decoration are numerous. It can instantly add a touch of class and sophistication to your room. Most people think of intelligence and refinement when they think of a nice looking marble chess set. It also provides a great conversation starter, since most people won’t be used to seeing a hand crafted chess table with carved pieces. And finally, consider passing on an antique chess set as an heirloom to your children – a well made set will last many, many years.

So the next time you redo a room, consider adding a decorative chess set and table as one of your pieces. You’ll add an instant conversation piece, and your room will look more refined and classy no matter what your decorating scheme.