Discover New Ways to Enjoy Seal Stones!? Introduction to “Appreciation Seal Materials”

Beyond carving and touching, seal stones also offer the joy of
“appreciation.”

You can enjoy the beauty of the carvings on the seal’s handle cord (chū) as well as the delicate patterns engraved in harmony with the natural grain of the stone, called usui. This time, we are pleased to introduce Shoyu’s treasured seal stone collection.

For those who wish to enjoy appreciation: Basic knowledge of seal stones
1) Types and names of stones Seal stones include various kinds such as Shoushan, Furong, and Shouhua stones, all named after the places where they are mined.

2) What makes a stone valuable? Stones considered high-quality—and therefore expensive—are those that are “moist and lustrous,” “fine-grained,” and “transparent.”

3) Introduction to the most prized stones At the very top of seal stones are the so-called “Three Treasures of Seal Stones”: Tianhuang, Chicken-Blood Stone, and Furong Stone. Tianhuang stones with red veining or patterns resembling the cross-section of a radish, or those with a yellow skin on the surface, are especially prized. Today, however, they are no longer seen on the market, making them truly legendary stones.

Since Shoyu’s collection is quite old, with no surviving records, the exact identification of each stone is uncertain. Nevertheless, every piece is remarkable in both material and craftsmanship. We hope you enjoy them.