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Stones
Shoushan stone carving is an art originating in Fujian Province in Eastern China. An ancient legend tells that after finishing repairing heaven, the goddess Nuwa hid the unused magical material under Shoushan mountain, hence beautiful stones can be found there.
It is believed that Shoushan stone was produced by volcanic eruption about 150 million year ago. Only Shoushan small mountain village has this soft jade stone. The village is about 5 square kilometers size, and the stone resource is limited. Some of them has been mined completed due to competition for collection. The shoushan stone will be completed mined in about 10 years with current mining speed. This predition has driven the shoushan stone higher.
Shoushan stone carvings are famous for their fine texture, multi-color hues and carve ability. The beauty of the material itself has been praised by poets and scholars. Shoushan stone carvings have a long history. Shoushan stone was first used for handicrafts 1500 years ago in time of the Southern Dynasty. In Chinese culture, a seal stamp is a proof of yourself, like unique signature of Westerns. All walks of life uses some sort of seals. Shoushan stone has been the first choice for people's seals if available, especially for Emperors and scholars.
These stone carvings undergo elaborate designing and processing. The following are typical steps:
1. study the nature of the stone being carved, include the stone's quality, shape, size, texture, grain and color.
2. carving theme is researched and studied. Design drawings are made during this phase.
3. Outline the stone, outline the design on the raw stone.
4. Carve the stone into rough design shape.
5. Refine and polish the carving.
6. Wax the artwork, rub small amount to protect the stone.
The whole process can take an artist months to finish the design and carving.
The superb quality of Shoushan stones and the superior craftmanship have made this unique Chinese art growing popularity and raising value, many people collects them for good luck and good mood. Some people reported that appreciating the stone brings them peace and calm.
Our inventory is from artists or collectors directly. Some have been kept for long time by our collectors. Formal factory packaging may not be included in shipment.
Click STONES link to see our beautiful stone gallery!
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