Why is there such a big difference in the craftsmanship value of jade carvings?

When communicating with jade lovers, I often hear: "These two processes are similar, why is the labor cost so different?!" The so-called similar processes are actually too different. The factors that usually affect the "processing fee" are as follows:

01

The raw material itself

It is very important to understand a piece of jade when holding it in your hand, so when designing and carving it, you should also consider the material. For two raw stones of the same weight, due to differences in material shape, flaws, and quality, the processing fee and processing time may sometimes differ significantly. There is also the possibility that the raw stones may be returned by the jade carver and cannot be processed. Not all jade materials are valuable and necessary for carving. However, it is certain that the more defects there are, the more energy and processing risks will be consumed.

02

Design Engraving

Design is the soul of the entire work, but usually people focus more on the work and tend to ignore the design aspect. In fact, the most difficult and brain-burning part of a piece of raw material is the conception, flaw avoidance and finalization. It relies on racking your brains and having a flash of inspiration. Once the subject matter is determined, carving it requires patience and carefulness.

An excellent work of art must be a combination of beautiful design and ingenious carving, neither of which is indispensable. We have also seen many works with good design but poor craftsmanship, which is a pity. At the same time, during the design and carving process, one's own artistic aesthetics, the sophistication of craftsmanship, the handling of emergency issues, the length of working hours, etc. will all affect the overall effect and value of the work.

03

Grinding and polishing

When the supplies required for grinding and polishing are the same, the reason why the grinding effects vary greatly is not only the technical level of the grinder, but also the sense of responsibility. Of course, the different grinding effects will result in different grinding charges, which is also one of the essential costs that must be considered in jade carvings.

04

The celebrity effect

This is the so-called brand effect. Depending on the fame of the jade carver and the level of the craftsman, the fees for different standards and regions are also different. For example, national, provincial, and jade carving artists, etc., the corresponding prices will also deviate. But this is not absolute. The editor suggests that there is no need to be superstitious about fame. Let your works speak for you. A good blacksmith must have strong tools.

Jade is natural and flaws are unavoidable. A good jade carving can only have spirituality if the beauty of the material is brought out through artificial carving. Only when it is integrated with humanities and culture can it have charm and value.

Therefore, the final cost of a work is a comprehensive result of factors such as raw materials, design, carving, polishing, and the level of the craftsman. There is no best, only better. As a jade lover, the most important thing when playing with jade is your mood. As long as you like it, there is no need to pursue the supreme standard of every factor.