FMF - Friends of Minerals Forum, discussion and message board

[dontgogreen]

I would like to share some of my recent work that I feel has beautiful synergy between mineral collecting and woodworking. Most of you are probably aware that traditional oriental mineral appreciation is more focused on the contemplation of "scholar's stones" or other natural rock formations, with less emphasis being placed on the appreciation of crystallized mineral specimens from the standpoint of western aesthetics (although this is changing). Suiseki is an ancient Japanese art form focused on the appreciation of natural stones that evoke some aspect of nature. For example, a stone could be reminiscent of a mountain range, a solitary peak, a waterfall, or any number of other possibilities. These are typically fitted with a custom display stand known as a daiza. I have begun to dabble in this art form, which I feel dovetails quite nicely with mineral collecting.

For one of my first attempts I selected this large specimen, which I collected at a road cut. It is a limestone from the Tonoloway Formation that is riddled with vugs of calcite crystals. I have not come across any other examples of suiseki in which the stone bears well-crystallized minerals (with the possible exception of chrysanthemum stones), and I think that what I have executed here is rather unique. It would certainly be possible, for certain mineral specimens, to fit them with a daiza as seen here. Generally speaking, however, mineral specimens as we know and love are in distinct from suiseki. A quick internet search will drive this point home. In my opinion, this specimen straddles the line between these modes of eastern and western stone appreciation quite well.

The daiza is carved from black walnut by hand using a gouge and mallet. The quality of the finished product is still very amateur, but I am pleased nonetheless. The overall appearance is acceptable, and given the complexity of the task, these results are encouraging. I hope you enjoy this blend of east/west mineral appreciation and craftsmanship.