A Living Legacy of Iznik Ceramics
Founded in 1759 in the historic town of Iznik, TESTI Quartz Ceramic Mosaic is not just a brand — it’s a seven-generation family legacy. Through centuries, the family has revived the lost secrets of Ottoman tile-making, blending them with contemporary creativity to create exquisite handmade ceramics, now sold and exhibited in their flagship shop in Sultanahmet, Istanbul.
This elegant boutique, just a short stroll from the Hagia Sophia, is more than a souvenir stop — it’s a cultural portal.
🔹 From Iznik to Istanbul: While the heart of their production remains in Iznik, they’ve brought their finest pieces to the city’s most historic neighborhood for travelers and locals alike.
🔹 Not Mass-Produced: Every item in the store is handcrafted — painted, drawn, and fired by skilled artisans using centuries-old techniques.
🔹 Truly Boutique: You won’t find TESTI Quartz in bazaars or generic gift shops. This is a destination store, ideal for those seeking meaningful souvenirs or collectible-quality gifts.
Why We Recommend Visiting TESTI Quartz
🔹 It’s Not Just a Shop — It’s an Experience: You’ll likely be greeted by a member of the family or one of their master artists. They’ll share the story behind Iznik ceramics, explain the creative process, and guide you through the showroom with sincerity and passion.
🔹 Women-Led, Community-Powered: TESTI Quartz is a proud member of a women’s artisan cooperative, supported by Grandmother Cemile Sultan. The initiative empowers women across Turkey with the ability to work from home and continue their craft while supporting their families.
🔹 Museum-Quality Meets Home Decor: Whether you’re searching for Ottoman tulip motifs, delicate Islamic geometry, or a personalized ceramic gift, the collection speaks to both tradition and modern artistry.
Engage in Authentic Ceramic Workshops
TESTI Quartz offers hands-on ceramic experiences for anyone curious about Turkish craftsmanship — right in the heart of Sultanahmet.
🔹 Learn tile, plate, or tall-product painting and contour drawing
🔹 Try the traditional pottery kick-wheel
🔹 Choose from guided pattern painting or create your own design
🔹 Workshops last 2 hours, and include bisque firing of your artwork
🔹 Children’s sessions are also available — painting cute animal figures
🔹 Price: $75 USD per person
🔹 Private and semi-private instruction with bilingual guides
💠 Participants who prefer to focus solely on painting may choose two products; those combining drawing and painting will work on one.
More Than One Workshop — A Nationwide Network of Craftsmanship
While the Istanbul showroom is the public face of TESTI Quartz, the heart of their creative process extends far beyond the city:
🔹 Iznik Headquarters: The original workshop and research center, where heritage techniques are preserved and perfected.
🔹 Cappadocia & Kütahya Studios: These additional studios function as both production hubs and training centers, often hosting students from fine arts faculties and apprentices from all over Turkey.
By cultivating a presence in these culturally rich regions, TESTI Quartz ensures that the ceramic arts are accessible, evolving, and actively passed on to future generations.
Visit the Shop, Take Home a Story
In Istanbul’s sea of souvenir stands, TESTI Quartz stands apart — not just for the beauty of its pieces, but for the story, skill, and soul behind each one. Whether you’re shopping for gifts, seeking a cultural workshop, or just want a quiet, inspiring break from sightseeing — this is a place you’ll remember.
📍Located in Sultanahmet — just minutes from the Blue Mosque
🛍 Open daily — walk-ins welcome, workshops by reservation
Discover It With Us
Looking for meaningful things to do in Istanbul?
We include TESTI Quartz in many of our custom walking tours and art-centered itineraries.
Contact us to add this unforgettable stop to your experience — and take home a piece of Turkish heritage made by real hands, with real stories.
