Carving Craftsmanship
Carving Hetian jade is a highly skilled art in China. The stone is hard and requires careful work to bring out its best qualities. Some popular techniques include:
Relief Carving: Artisans carve shallow designs to create depth and a three-dimensional look.
Openwork Carving: Intricate patterns are cut to create openings in the jade, allowing light to pass through.
Engraving: Many pieces have calligraphy or symbols etched onto them, adding cultural meaning.
Polishing: The final step involves polishing the jade to achieve a glossy, mirror-like finish that enhances its color and clarity.