He who puts his lips to it would wish them never to be removed

The blessed Black Stone is encased in the corner [of the Kabah] facing east. The depth to which it penetrates it is not known, but it is said to extend two cubits into the wall. Its breadth is two-thirds of a span, its length one span and a finger joint. It has four pieces, joined together, and it is said that it was the Qarmata [Shiite sect] — may God curse them — who broke it. Its edges have been braided with a sheet of silver whose white shines brightly against the black sheen and polished brilliance of the Stone, presenting the observer a striking spectacle which will hold his gaze. The Stone, when kissed, has a softness and moistness which so enchants the mouth that he who puts his lips to it would wish them never to be removed. This is one of the special favors of Divine Providence, and it is enough that the Prophet — may God bless and preserve him — declare it to be a covenant of God on earth.

— from “Travels” by Ibn Jubayr

Ibn Jubayr (1145–1217) was a geographer, traveler, and poet from Muslim Spain who offers a valuable account of a pilgrimage he made to Mecca from 1183 to 1185. His account describes his voyage to Mecca, and his return trip through Christian Sicily, which had been recaptured from the Muslims a century prior to his visit. Unlike many travel books at the time, Ibn Jubayr’s accounts included great detail and description of the places he visited, including geographical, cultural, religious, and political.