The Stone of Artistry

A Journey Through Time
Shoushan stone has been treasured in China for over 1,500 years, most famously from the Tang (618–907 CE) and Qing (1644–1911 CE) dynasties. Quarried near Shoushan village in Fujian Province, it became the preferred medium for scholars and artisans. Its fine texture made it ideal for seal carving—emperor’s edicts and scholar’s works alike were stamped with Shoushan seals, carrying the authority of both state and spirit. It remains one of the “Four Famous Seal Stones of China,” alongside Qingtian, Changhua, and Balin stones.

Nature and Beauty
Shoushan stone is a group name for various altered feldspathic rocks and clay minerals, often pyrophyllite-rich, with a smooth, fine-grained texture. Colors range from soft creams and yellows to vivid reds, greens, and purples, often marbled or translucent. Its relative softness (Mohs hardness ~2–3) makes it easy to carve yet durable enough for intricate detail. Varieties are poetically named—such as tianhuang (“heavenly yellow”), furong (“hibiscus”), and yuri (“jade-like”)—reflecting their beauty and rarity.

Symbolism and Energy
In Chinese tradition, Shoushan stone represents culture, refinement, and longevity. As the scholar’s stone, it is tied to wisdom, creativity, and the enduring power of words. In Armillas’ language, it is the stone of artistry—an emblem of patience and expression shaped by hand and history.

Legacy and Meaning Today
Still quarried in Fujian, though many classic deposits are depleted, Shoushan stone remains highly prized by collectors, artists, and connoisseurs. Antique seals and carvings are sought after as cultural treasures, while new works continue the lineage of craftsmanship. It is not just a gem, but a living tradition.

Sources

• Mindat.org – Shoushan Stone Mineral Data & Locality

• Encyclopædia Britannica / Chinese art sources – Seal carving traditions, Fujian deposits