Dur al-Najaf is a clear quartz stone collected from the desert regions surrounding the holy city of Najaf. Artisans and gem cutters in Souq al-Kabeer near the Imam Ali Shrine shape, polish, and set these translucent stones into sterling silver rings, pendants, and prayer bead strands (misbaha). For more: Shopping and Bargaining in Iraqi Souqs: A Guide to Crafts, Spices, and Cash Etiquette