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History of Mahjong
Mahjong is more than a game: it’s a cultural tradition that has transcended centuries, crossed continents, and brought people together tile by tile. With its satisfying clack, symbolic imagery, and deeply social nature, mahjong’s history is as layered as the game itself.
where it started
Mahjong’s Origins
Everywhere you look, it’s mahjong! While mahjong is having a major moment, its origins actually go back centuries.
Mahjong originated in China, and while some legends place its beginnings to the times of Confucius, the version we know and love today was developed in the mid 1800s, toward the end of the Qing Dynasty. The word “mahjong” means “sparrow,” a reference to the clacking sound the tiles make, which resembles the sound of a bird.
the rise of mahjong
A Worldwide Phenomenon
As Chinese communities emigrated around the world, mahjong traveled with them. The game took root across East and Southeast Asia, with many different local variations and superstitions arising.
In the early 1920s, American businessman Joseph P. Babcock introduced the game of mahjong to U.S. audiences. It quickly became a national phenomenon, with some of the first sets being sold out of Abercrombie & Fitch in New York City. It was particularly popular amongst wealthy women of high society during the roaring 20s.
During this time, new rules and scoring systems were introduced, eventually becoming American mahjong. Organizations formed to formalize gameplay, transforming mahjong into both a social pastime and a structured competitive game.
more than just a game
Mahjong Today
While mahjong has maintained a steady fanbase in the United States over the last several decades, it has exploded in popularity in the last several years. From competitive tournaments to living room games, mahjong is everywhere.
More than a game of skill and strategy, mahjong is a ritual — one that brings generations together, fosters connection, and celebrates patience, intuition, and a little bit of luck. Whether you’re shuffling tiles at a family table or discovering the game for the first time, every mahjong match carries echoes of a history centuries in the making.
Ready, set, mahjong!
The centuries-old game of mahjong is having a major moment, and we're thrilled to introduce our newest collection of pieces perfect for your next match!
Inspired by the beloved tradition to "Cheers!" when a player discards a One Bam tile, our pendants feature a Bird Bam designed in reference to both antique and modern mahjong tiles. Available in 7 styles, pick your favorite to become your new lucky charm!
The Lookbook
