Sculpture & Aesthetics
There is something about a raven skull's profile that we never tire of: the rounded crown giving way to that long, pointed beak. It is such a spare shape, yet it has all the character we could ask for. We like it among stones and other small curiosities, where its silhouette catches the eye before you have even noticed the details.
That outline gets a great deal of our attention in the carving. The taper of the beak, the hollow around the eye, and the fine separation between upper and lower beak all need to work together. Natural markings travel along the polished surface, sometimes drawing your eye right out to the tip. It is a form we enjoy turning over and looking at from the side—a small object with a wonderfully distinctive face.
Nine Dragon Jasper
Nine Dragon Jade, also known as Hua’an Jade, is a fine-grained calc-silicate metamorphic rock. Its mineral mixture creates contrasting bands and veins in blue-green, green, dark brown and other tones. The compact texture supports a smooth polish, while curved carved surfaces reveal changes in the stone’s pattern. Jade is the established commercial name for this material.
I connect with the modern associations of courage, wisdom, and protection attached to Nine Dragon Jade. I would choose it for my workspace as an expression of the strength to act thoughtfully and look after what matters to me.
Details & Care
Material properties
- Hardness & Specific Gravity
- Mohs: approximately 5.8–6.6 in published testing. Specific gravity: approximately 2.8–3.1. Values vary with mineral composition and are not measurements of an individual sculpture.
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.
Dust with a soft cloth or clean briefly with lukewarm water, mild soap and a soft cloth. Dry promptly. Avoid acids, harsh household chemicals, steam, ultrasonic cleaning, hard knocks and abrasive contact.
When worn, use a strong cord appropriate for the sculpture’s weight and inspect both the cord and drilled opening regularly. Protect the long beak from knocks, pressure, and sudden movement, and do not lift or pull the carving by the beak.
Shipping & Returns
Each piece is carefully packed to protect its carved surfaces during transit.