Sculpture & Aesthetics
We have a soft spot for skulls. The hollow eyes, the cheekbones, that unmistakable grin. Somehow, there’s always room for another—especially when something about it catches you: the shape of the face, an unusual marking, the way it looks from one particular angle. That’s the fascination we bring to carving them.
That affection carries into the carving. We pay attention to the cheekbones, the shape of the jaw, and how the face changes as you turn it in your hand. Natural stone adds another reason to look closer: a vein crossing the brow, a change of color along the cheek, a detail you only notice after living with it for a while. We want to make the kind of skull we would stop to admire—and immediately start making room for.
Lava Stone
Lava Stone is a broad trade name for porous volcanic rock rather than a single mineral or strict rock type. Its open cavities formed as gas expanded and escaped from cooling lava, leaving a rugged texture whose porosity and strength vary between pieces.
I believe in lava stone’s grounding energy and its associations with focus and balance. I would choose it when I want to settle into the work in front of me and give the rest of the noise a little less of my attention.
Details & Care
Material properties
- Surface
- Polished
- Hardness & Specific Gravity
- Mohs: variable; dense basalt is commonly about 5–6
SG: variable; porosity substantially lowers bulk density
Natural Variation & Care
Natural veils, inclusions and variations in color are part of the material’s character. Appearance may vary with lighting and screen settings.
Remove dust from the pores with a dry soft brush, or clean briefly with a damp cloth and mild soap before drying fully. Avoid soaking, oils, colored liquids, strong chemicals, steam, ultrasonic cleaning, and hard impacts.
Support the carving by its main body or solid base. Protect the teeth, jaw and thin carved edges from knocks and pressure.
Shipping & Returns
Each piece is carefully packed to protect its carved surfaces during transit.