Stone of the Month: 

January 2025 

“Soaring ”

By Thomas S. Elias

When I first saw this large, impressive stone in a shop in Beijing, China, I was captivated by the smooth-flowing lines of its form. It seemed that this stone was capable of taking flight and soaring high above the land. After I managed to have it shipped to my home, I thought it could also represent a ballerina on pointe. This stone exudes boundless energy. 

Moore Stones are ancient, water-washed stones brought up from deep waters of the Red River near Dahua in Guangxi province China. Initially, people living in Dahua used these stones to sharpen knives, scissors, and other cutting tools. One of these stones was displayed at the 2nd National Stone and Gem Exhibition in Shenzhen in November 2011 and gained immediate recognition. These stones were given the name Moore Stones due to their similarities with the British sculptor Henery Moore. Moore Stones are medium- to large-size, smooth with flowing lines, and appear like a modern sculpture. They range in color from greenish to light bronze.

This stone measures 52 cm (20.5 inches) wide, 61 cm (24 inches) high including the base, and 45.7 cm (18 inches) deep and with a pedestal-style base. It is in the collection of Thomas S. Elias and Hiromi Nakaoji.