In ancient China, seals were carved by hand out of expensive
Jade or Ivory. Nowadays, soft soapstone is commonly used.
Seals or Chops are either hand carved by skilled artisans or by
the artists or by the end user.
Stone inscriptions and their uses vary.
Personal name seals are engraved with the individual's
name and are used to authenticate or sign paintings or to show
ownership or approval. In ancient China, collectors of paintings
would add their seal to the artwork. By looking at the seals, it
is possible to observe the history of the transfer of ownership.
Mood seals, such as tranquilly, harmony, joy, or love are used
to help express the the sprit of the painting.
Other stones have beautiful sayings or proverbs.