Stone Carving
by Gail Lang

Carving as an activity has remained unchanged since man first started hewing away at stone to fashion images. The process, while more difficult, is the same as in wood. The artist chisels away at the stone, piece by piece until they find the figure they seek. During the Renaissance this technique was refined by the pointing system, but otherwise the art remains much the same as it was in ancient times.

Limestone, alabaster and soapstone lend themselves well to the novice stone carver as they shape easily. Harder stones, such as granite, bluestone, hard marble and sandstone are all marvelous stones but are more for the experienced carver. It is also recommended that you begin with a larger stone so you'll have more to hold onto as you work.

In choosing the stone for any particular sculpture, keep in mind where and how it will be displayed. If you intend the piece to set outside, you must be aware of its weathering abilities. In general, very soft stones will break down in one to seven years when left outside in harsh weather climates. Harder stones will last much longer, while granites, basalts and diorites will last many centuries. Hard marbles will eventually develop discoloration as a result of air pollutants, but will have a life-span lasting hundreds of years, with their actual life-span depending on many environmental factors.

Stone has also been used in combination with other materials, but this requires an exceptional skill for it to work. It takes a special sensibility to find two materials that are distinct in character, yet will function visually and technically together. Samples of such combinations can be found in ancient castles, cathedrals, fortresses, abbeys and monuments where metal and stone are combined for both looks and functionability.