The Art of Engraving Stones

---

Learn more about Ancient Tomb Rings and the art of Engraving

---

There are various ways for an individual to customize, decorate or personalize his or her homestead and surroundings. In most cases, there is wide use of artistry techniques that brings the art of class to one's home. Any artist especially in the decoration, drawing, sketching, sculpting and related departments will always take advantage of the nearest and most common item which is seen as waste by many and turn it into an extraordinary and good looking piece of art. One of the most common types of decoration using art is through sculptures. This can be in form of any material that is completely changed from its original and not so helpful state into something that resembles another item such as animals, structures, people, and gadgets among others. This is always achieved by changing the original solid form of an element into something that is usually spectacular. The best example is clearly brought out through the engraved stones.

There are many reasons why an individual will opt for these settings if not just for decoration. In most cases the use of these scratched items are common where labels and identification are necessary and should be done in style. For this reason, a person might opt to give a present to his or her friend or relative with a name roughly but beautifully scratched on the surface. For example, in the case of the engraved stones for pets, the person usually has the name of the owner of the pet or the pet's name grooved on the solid rock.

This is a common gift in most families where the material usually has a name somehow scribbled on it. Sometimes the rock also has some other important and useful information or message on it. The engraved stones for gardens in most cases will contain not only the name but also other inscriptions such as prayers or bible verses, a short description of the owner or the name on the material, directions and others. One advantage of using this type of art is that there are various types and colors of rock available. This gives the artist different choice of colors when creating or customizing the material as he or the clients want.

The engraved stones are unique and artistic types of gifts especially in such cases as in the engraved stones for pets. The different colors give the person good choices when creating the engraved stones for gardens.

The Ica Stones Controversy - Evidence That Could Change World History

---

Learn more about Ancient Tomb Rings and the art of Engraving

---

The Ica stones are a collection of stones allegedly discovered in a cave near Ica, Peru. These stones of various sizes have been etched with astounding scenes. The stones depict open-heart surgery, brain transplants, cesarean sections, telescopes, ancient maps, flying machines, extinct animals and men with dinosaurs. Some claim the Ica Stones are an ancient library left by a lost culture. Others say they are a hoax. These andesite stones call into question just about everything science has taught us about the origin of the human race.

Dr. Javier Cabrera

The late Peruvian doctor Javier Cabrera popularized the stones after he received one as a gift for his birthday in 1961. He open the Museo de Piedras Grabadas  (Engraved Stones Museum) at the Plaza de Armas in Ica which displays his collection of some 15,000 stones. Cabrera's theory is that the stones depict the first Peruvian culture as an extraterrestrial race that came to earth during the dinosaur's existence and then genetically engineered modern man.

Cabrera claimed that a farmer found the stones in a cave. The farmer was arrested for selling the stones to tourists, but was later released on his testimony that he had faked the stones. According to Cabrera, the farmer was facing 20 years in prison if the stones were real so he changed his story to regain his freedom.

Cabrera also claimed that the locals had unearthed about 50,000 stones and that they showed him a tunnel where there are another 100,000.

Rocks cannot be carbon dated and no one has ever seen the cave, or the resulting strata, where the stones were found. A number of experts estimate the stones as being 1,500 and 12,000 years old. Cabrera placed them between 60,000,000 BC and 13,000,000 BC, although the difference between their occurrence in each period is not clarified. Others say that all of the stones have been falsified.

Fake or Real?

Some of the stones have been proven to be made by locals of the area to sell to tourists. Since Cabrera's stones come from a cave which has never been identified, the stones can't be carbon dated, which adds clout to the possibility that the stones are fakes.

In 1998, after four years of investigation, Spanish investigator Vicente Paris declared that the evidence indicates the stones are a hoax. Among the evidence presented were microphotographs of the stones showing traces of modern paints and abrasives. Other evidence of fraud is the crispness of the shallow engravings; stones of great age should have substantial erosion of the surfaces. Perhaps the strongest argument in favor of the skeptics is that the stones contradict just about everything we think we know about evolution.

Yet there is myth and strong evidence in favor of the stones' authenticity. Inca myth speaks of a civilization of giants that created the stones as an historical record. Inca myths of giants parallel the Bible's story of a race of giants called the Nephilim, whom may have arrived from another planet.

Some engraved stones are said to have been brought back to Spain in the 16th century. Microscopic analysis of several Ica Stones has provided conclusive evidence that they are not modern forgeries.

There are far too many stones for a single farmer, or even a group of hoaxers, to have carved. Not only would it take a large group of people and an enormous amount of time to carve the stones, but they would also need to have intimate knowledge of extinct species of fish, dinosaur anatomy, ancient maps and geography, astronomy, complex surgery, blood transfusion and many other complicated topics.

Believers in the stones claim that evolution is a flawed theory, and they point out that it's just that - a theory, not fact. Besides, only one single stone needs to be authentic to prove that an unknown, ancient civilization did exist in the Ica region of Peru.

Most scientists have turned a blind eye to the Ica Stones, unwilling to face historical controversy. Some of the stones have been faked, yet evidence points to the possibility that thousands of the stones are authentic. Whether real or fraud, their safety is important if further, modern analysis of the Ica Stones are to take place. If someday any of the Ica Stones are proven to be authentic, they would be one of the most important archaeological discoveries of all time.

Do you know how to travel the world and get paid for it? Discover the amazing secrets of earning at least $4,000 to $30,000 monthly while traveling the world at Lone Wolf Adventure. Get your passport to Freedom and Adventure here! http://www.lonewolfadventure.net

The Art of Gifting Garden Stepping Stones

---

Learn more about Ancient Tomb Rings and the art of Engraving

---

Every gardener loves "accessorizing" her garden. Whimsical or formal, sentimental or practical, garden ornaments complete a garden by further extending the gardener's personality beyond plant selection. Trellises, gazing balls, wind chimes and bird baths are traditional offerings. As families landscape more of their yards, creating nooks and crannies for enjoying the outdoors, garden stepping stones have become very popular. The variety of stepping stones is endless. When considering a gift for a gardener, think about creating a stepping stone just for them. A personalized stepping stone, with high-quality engraving is a unique, personal gift that will add to a garden's ambiance for years ahead.

To create a piece of art that will be forever part of a garden, consider your recipient's interests beyond gardening. If your intended loves to read, a quote by Dickinson or Frost is in order. If the family's faithful feline hangs out in the garden, an engraved cat silhouette pays tribute to this "gardening assistant." (Every chipmunk chased away, is a lily flower saved!) Golfing fanatics will smile when receiving a series of stones with "birdie," "fore" and "Hole in One" engraved into them.

Personalized stepping stones make great gifts for non-gardeners as well. Commemorate special occasions by having a stepping stone engraved. Celebrate a new birth with the newborn's name and date. Help new couples remember their wedding, and a proud bowler his first perfect game! Engraved stepping stones in landscape beds near a house's front door tell stories of the family inside, each a reminder of important life events. The gift of an engraved garden stepping stone for a special occasion will be appreciated long after the event, and will give the best gift of all. Each time the recipient steps over the stone, it will conjure memories of joyous times past.

Copyright. All rights reserved.

Beth Engel is the owner of EpicMerchandise.com, a premier gift site specializing in personalized gifts. She features an exclusive line of hard to find personalized engraved garden stepping stones all made of natural slate. She can be reached using the "contact us" page of the website.

You have permission to publish this article electronically or in print, free of charge, as long as the bylines, links, and copyright information are included.

Launching Engraved Stones: Cupid's Modern Approach?

---

Learn more about Ancient Tomb Rings and the art of Engraving

---

Modern couples in love, although not actually launching engraved stones at each other, are increasingly choosing new ways to impress, surprise and hit their mark with loved ones by declaring their tender words on engraved stones. Instead of throwing them, however, they just gently (or sneakily) present them to their significant other!

Natural stones and rocks seem to perfectly symbolize and support their loving messages. The strength of any promises declared, the everlasting feelings expressed, are that much stronger, truer, more permanent, when engraved into stone.

So what can you say on your love rock that will win you a beautiful smile and touch the heart of your special someone? Here are some examples of messages on engraved stones that have been used to express one's love and devotion. You might discover the right words among these ideas or perhaps use these examples as a springboard for brainstorming the perfect sentiment for your specific situation and loved one. Words can be funny, serious, quirky, nice, predictable, intriguing, questioning or involve a call to action. Whatever they are, though, it's best that they be sincere and focus in on the special connection you share with your loved one.

Want to get engaged? Pop the question on a stone! "Will you marry me?" Or, ask your true love, "Spend a Lifetime with Me?" You could instead declare "I Love You, Be Mine Always" or, "Let's Grow Old Together." You could also leave some intrigue with "I Have A Question..."

Here are more ideas for how to express love on engraved stones: "We're Meant to Be" - "Our Love Rocks!" - "The Love Bug Bit Me"- "Sail With Me" - "Be Mine" - "You Have The Key To My Heart" - "You Are The One" - "You Are My Rock."

Also, it can be a good idea to personalize your engraved stone gift with your loved one's name and your name too. And, another suggestion that can help you when thinking about giving someone a love stone is it is best to avoid re-gifting the engraved stone.

Treat the one-of-a-kind engraved stone as a unique gift of love only for your special loved one. Then, cupid's engraved stone will not only hit its mark, winning you a heartfelt smile and considerable affection, but will also become a long-lasting gift and a treasured reminder that your "Love Rocks."

Liz Hekimian-Williams is founder of Giftsprings - online at http://www.giftsprings.com - an inspirational online gifts and home decor shop featuring personalized gifts including engraved stones and engraved wind chimes. See sample custom engraved stones at http://www.giftsprings.com/category/estones

© Liz Hekimian-Williams Free reprint of this article is permitted as long as the article is reprinted in its entirety including the author resource information and this reprint notice. If reprinted online, active links must be included. This article can be shared by email but only with personally known family members or friends or private email lists in which subscribers have requested/opted-in to receiving email from the publisher of the private list. Please notify Giftsprings of use of this article.

Pet Memorial Garden Stones For Your Loved Ones

---

Learn more about Ancient Tomb Rings and the art of Engraving

---

There are very few rare people who grieve for their pets, just like they would when a member of the family passes away. It is true that pets outlive their owners and when you truly love them, it is immensely difficult to let them 'go'. You stick to the memories and find the separation unbearable.

These days, there are new ways to mourn the passing of your beloved pet. You can choose to preserve them in pet urns or you can create a per memorial garden. A pet memorial garden is a landscapes portion of land where a beautiful memorial stone can be laid and decorated with flowers and greenery that reminds you of the moments you spent with the loved ones.

What does it indicate when you choose pet memorial garden stones?

Firstly, it indicates that you are trying to cope up with the loss of your pet and in doing so, you are seeking closure.

Secondly, the choice implies a befitting tribute to honor the life and love the loved one shared with you, during its short lifetime.

Thirdly, you are able to seek and lend support to each other and come to terms with the departure as a collective unity.

Fourthly, the pet memorial stone is also an indication of your desire to remember it through eternity. The memorial stone is the little resting place, an evidence of a life well lived.

What kind of pet memorial garden stones can you choose?

Natural River Rock Stones - It is the most popular of the natural materials to make memorial stone. It has flat surface with smooth edges because of erosion from moving water.

Limestone Rock - It looks like an original rock urn. In a limestone memorial rock, you have a small hollowed out place inside where you can place the ashes. On the top of it is the engraving that has details about the pet - its name, age, and a personalized message.

Other than the above 2 popular options, you have the flat stone memorial where you can have a picture of the pet engraved onto the stone.

You can purchase the personalized engraved stones online but make sure to place the orders in advance.

How to Use Engraved Stones in a Backyard Memorial Garden

---

Learn more about Ancient Tomb Rings and the art of Engraving

---

Although nothing can completely ease the pain of the loss of a loved one or pet, creating your own garden memorial with personalized engraved stones can help a bit as you create a haven at home where you can honor their life and memories. Stones with your personalized engraving are often used as focal points in remembrance memorial gardens at home but there are different aspects to consider when planning a backyard memorial garden and before you order the engraved stones.

First, decide if you will only feature one larger rock or if you prefer to have several engraved stones. How can you decide? The following questions can help you to narrow it down. Will it be a memorial honoring one single person or pet, or, several? Do you want to make a garden around one focal point and area, or, do you want to line a pathway with multiple stones and plants along the way? Do you think you'd enjoy having one stone featuring the name and multiple aspects of the individual or pet, or, might you prefer having several stones featuring different words or phrases all remembering one person, dog, or cat? Clearly, there are a variety of alternatives when deciding on engraved stones and memorials for your garden, but don't get bogged down with this, as none of these is the "right" answer, it's just a matter of personal preference. Any one of these ideas can provide a beautiful memorial remembrance in your garden.

How much is in your budget for this memorial garden with engraved stones project? This is another factor you will need to consider in your planning. Although larger stones cost more, you can typically include more engraved words (even poems) on a larger engraved stone than on a smaller one. On the other hand, several small stones may fit the sentiments as well, just spread out over several separate stones, and perhaps at a similar or lower overall cost.

Other issues to think about when planning your memorial garden include whether or not to include other accents or decor, as well as plant and flower choices. For example, will you want to include additional features such as a sitting bench, a gazing ball, or personalized wind chimes in your memorial garden? Other decisions involve choosing the plants and flowers for your memorial garden. Find varieties that will be easy to maintain. However, also consider plants or flowers that particularly pleased your loved one or that are your own personal favorites.

Finally, some may want to try to choose the stone type or coloring of the stones. However, if you are selecting natural stones, you will probably find this is not usually feasible. This is because natural stones come in various colors, shapes, and sizes, and every one is unique. Natural river stones, for example, come in their own special colors and with natural imperfections and "flaws" crafted by nature. So, it appears, the color and shape of the stone may best be left up to nature and destiny. Ultimately, as long as the engraving and sentiment says just what you want, your engraved stones and memorial garden will be just right and ready to touch the hearts of family and friends for years to come.

Liz Hekimian-Williams writes about home and family topics for Giftsprings and other websites. She enjoys the beauty of engraved natural stones along with their versatility for use in garden memorials or as other personalized gift ideas. Visit http://www.tlcmemorialstones.com to find memorial wording examples or go to http://www.giftsprings.com/category/estones when you're ready to design your own custom engraved stones and get your idea underway.