INSPIRED BY NATURE
Viewing stone appreciation is inspired by natural geological features, biological entities—people, animals, plants—and less so by artifacts—boats, huts, bridges. In this new section, we will be featuring unusual geological and biological elements that can or have influenced the collection of an unusual rock to view for its aesthetic qualities. We want you to look to nature for guidance to the types of rocks to add to your collection.
Jiangsu, Shandong, and Liaoning provinces, China
Natural living objects can inspire viewing stone collectors. The young shoots of the giant bamboo,
Dendrocalamus giganteus, are very distinct as they emerge. This is the largest grass species in the world and can grow to 20 to 30 meters high. The mature are used in construction due to their strength.
Bamboo-leaf pattern stones are a carbonate sedimentary stone composed of nodular limestone of the Ordovician period. They are found in eastern China in Jiangsu, Shandong, and Liaoning provinces. When displayed in a vertical position, the narrow columns suggest young bamboo shoots.
