Traditional Natural Materials
Stone
- Shoushan Stone (Fujian, China): Fine texture, rich colors like Tianhuang or Furong. Prized for artistry.
- Qingtian Stone (Zhejiang, China): Smooth, beginner-friendly, e.g., Dengguangdong, Fengmenqing.
- Changhua Stone (Zhejiang, China): Cinnabar-infused “Chicken Blood Stone” is highly valued.
- Balin Stone (Inner Mongolia, China): Vibrant, similar to Shoushan.
- Others: Liaoning frozen stone, Indian stone.
Wood
- Boxwood, rosewood, mahogany: Natural grain, prone to cracking if not maintained. Ideal for large or artistic seals.
Animal-Based Materials
- Ivory: Historically elite, now banned in most countries.
- Rhinoceros Horn: Rare, mostly in historical artifacts.
- Bone: Ox or camel bone, needs anti-corrosion treatment.
Metal
- Bronze/Copper: Durable, used for ancient official seals.
- Silver/Gold: Precious, for royal or commemorative seals.
- Steel: Modern official seals, machine-engraved.
Jade & Gemstones
- Nephrite (Hetian jade), jadeite, agate: Hard, requires professional tools. Elegant and durable.
In ancient China, these materials were crafted into seals for personal or government use, valued as high-end handicrafts.
Modern Synthetic Materials
Rubber
- Affordable, flexible, easy to carve. Great for office stamps or practice but wears out and lacks fine detail.
Plastic/Acrylic
- Low-cost, colorful, ideal for mass production. Acrylic (PMMA) used for transparent stamps.
Photopolymer
- Hardens under UV light, delivers fine details. Common in pre-inked stamps.
Resin
- Mimics stone texture, lightweight. Popular for cultural and creative products.
Ceramic
- Fired for durability, but fragile. Mostly artistic seals.
Mobarn Stamp specializes in rubber stamps (self-inking, flash), wooden stamps, and wax stamps for unique applications.
Special Materials
- Crystal/Glass: Transparent, decorative, often for souvenirs.
- Silicone: Soft, great for uneven surfaces.
- Composite Materials: Wood-metal blends for style and function.
Choosing the Right Material
- Calligraphy & Seal Carving: Shoushan or Qingtian stones for tradition and quality.
- Daily Use: Rubber or photopolymer for convenience.
- Collectible Value: Tianhuang Stone, Chicken Blood Stone, or master-carved seals.
- Budget-Friendly: Resin or practice stones.
Maintenance Tips
- Stone seals: Oil occasionally to preserve texture.
- Metal seals: Prevent rust with proper care.
- Wood seals: Keep dry to avoid cracking.
Select your seal material based on purpose, aesthetics, and budget for the best experience.
