Agate Pick
The Picks According to Marco Bianco
The story of AgatePick Guitars is born from the passion and experimentation of Marco Bianco, who, after the accidental discovery of an agate pick in the 1980s, embarked on a unique journey creating high-performance picks made from natural stone. Each model is conceived as a true musical instrument: precise, fast, and capable of influencing the guitar’s tone.
Every pick is a unique piece, handcrafted from selected volcanic agate, with manual cutting, shaping, and polishing. Marco’s philosophy combines jewelry techniques with performance needs, creating accessories that become an integral part of the musician’s touch.
The Collection
The AgatePick collection includes various models, each optimized for specific sound and response characteristics:
- Classic Agate Pick: traditional pick made of natural agate, 2–3 mm thick, hand-polished to ensure speed and control.
- Memory Pick: an exclusive model that adapts to the playing style. The tip polishes and modifies its dynamic response over time, offering an evolving playability.
- Jazz Series: smaller size and sharp tip for maximum articulation. 3 mm thick, ideal for fast runs and extreme control.
- Standard Series: agate picks with classic design, available in 1.5–2.5 mm thicknesses, suitable for genres ranging from rock to fingerstyle.
Agate, with its density and rigidity, offers a sharp attack, natural sustain, and energy transfer superior to plastic picks, generating richer harmonics and immediate dynamic response.
Construction Philosophy, Techniques, and Materials
Each AgatePick pick is the result of a unique technical and artisanal approach:
- Manual cutting and polishing: artisanal workmanship that guarantees precision and jewelry-quality finish.
- Natural material: selected volcanic agate for hardness and veins, ensuring consistent tonal response.
- Polished edges: reduces friction and improves picking speed while maintaining definition and control.
Collaborations and Recognitions
AgatePick picks have been tested and perfected thanks to the contribution of numerous professional guitarists. The Memory Pick in particular was born from real feedback from musicians seeking sensitivity and adaptability in their instrument.
Every collaboration arises from direct interaction with guitarists, transforming artistic needs into precise technical features.
Authentic Experience
Although the workshop is not open to the public, AgatePick Guitars offers personalized consultations to help musicians choose the model and thickness based on their playing style. Each pick comes with a certificate of authenticity and technical data about the stone used, making every piece unique and traceable.