The recipient is a close, long-time friend of the client — someone with whom they share a childhood bond rooted in mahjong. The two had played together since they were young, making the game a meaningful thread in their friendship. The client wanted the birthday gift to honour that shared history in a tangible, lasting way.
A one-of-a-kind set that tells their shared story
The client came to My Custom Mahjong with a clear and heartfelt vision: a beautifully crafted American mahjong set that would feel deeply personal. The defining request was to feature a photograph of the two friends playing mahjong together as children on the back of every tile — transforming each piece into a small keepsake of their shared past. The brief called for premium materials and presentation worthy of such a meaningful occasion.
Obsidian tiles, red ink artistry, and a leather-bound finish
The set was crafted from obsidian, chosen for its deep lustre and striking high-gloss finish — a material that immediately signals something out of the ordinary. Red ink-painted designs were applied to the tile faces with exceptional precision, the vivid colour standing beautifully against the dark stone surface. The reverse of each tile was personalised with the childhood photograph, printed with care to complement the overall aesthetic. The complete set was housed in a leather storage box, giving the gift a cohesive, luxurious presentation from the moment it was unwrapped.
The reveal & outcome
The recipient’s reaction upon receiving the set was one of pure joy. Moved by both the craftsmanship and the deeply personal nature of the gift, they were overjoyed — a response the client shared with us directly, along with their heartfelt gratitude for bringing the vision to life.
