Understanding Stone Statues

Stone statues are carved or cast from various natural and composite materials. Nearly all of our stone sculptures are designed for outdoor placement in all weather conditions. Each type has unique characteristics, appearance, and care requirements.

Natural Aging is Beautiful All outdoor stone develops natural patina over time—moss, lichen, slight darkening, and color shifts are natural processes. Many collectors treasure the aged, weathered look. You can clean periodically to refresh appearance, or embrace the natural character that develops over years of outdoor display.
Granite stone garden sculptures of Hindu gods
Close-up of naturally speckled granite surface
Lava stone Buddhist garden sculptures
Indonesian volcanic stone with natural green coloring

Types of Stone We Use

Natural Carved Stones

Black granite hand carved Hindu God garden sculptures

Granite (India)

Extremely hard, dense stone with speckled appearance in grays, blacks, pinks, and whites. Nearly indestructible and highly weather-resistant. Perfect for outdoor placement year-round.

Abstract Ganesha garden sculpture hand carved from colored granite

Colored Granite (India)

Vibrant naturally colored granite carved into stunning abstract and traditional forms. Each piece showcases the stone's unique natural hues—permanent, weather-resistant, and striking in any garden setting.

Lava stone Hindu and Buddhist garden sculptures

Volcanic / Lava Stone (Indonesia)

Porous volcanic rock in dark gray to black tones. Available in porous (lighter, highly textured) and dense (heavier, darker, less porous) varieties. Both fully weather-resistant.

Colored lava stone Hindu and Buddhist garden sculptures

Colored Lava Stone (Indonesia)

Artisan-applied mineral colors penetrate deep into porous lava stone. Earth tones, rust, greens, and multicolored effects that are permanent and integrated into the stone—not surface paint.

Hand carved large sandstone garden sculptures

Sandstone (Cambodia)

Soft, beautifully carved stone. Outdoor garden pieces are weather-resistant. Some special Cambodian pieces are mounted on decorative wood bases and designed for indoor display only.

Earth tone soft sandstone Hindu sculptures for indoor use

Indoor Sandstone (Cambodia)

Exquisitely carved Cambodian sandstone in warm earth tones, faithfully replicating ancient temple sculpture traditions. Mounted on decorative wood bases, exclusively for interior display—perfect for home altars, shelves, and sacred spaces.

Composite & Cast Stones

Hindu and Buddhist sculptures cast from stone powder and resin

Composite Stone (Indonesia)

Natural stone powder mixed with resin and glue, then molded and cast. Lighter than solid stone, very durable, and weather-resistant. Allows consistent reproduction while maintaining authentic stone appearance.

Buddha sculptures cast from terrazzo stone

Terrazzo Stone (Indonesia)

Hand-cast mixture of marble chips, cement, and stone aggregate creating a speckled granite-like finish. Extremely durable, weather-resistant, and affordable. Traditional Indonesian technique. Built to last 20+ years outdoors.

Indoor Only Exception The only stone pieces not suitable for outdoor placement are our Cambodian sandstone sculptures mounted on decorative wood bases with protective finishes. These are specifically designed for interior display—we will always specify these clearly. Sandstone indoor sculptures on wood bases

Stone Hardness & Durability Guide

Stone Type Hardness Level Outdoor Suitability Sealing Needed
Granite Extremely Hard Year-round, all weather Not necessary
Dense Volcanic Stone Hard & Durable Excellent, all weather Not necessary
Terrazzo Hard & Durable 20+ years outdoors Not necessary
Composite Stone Hard & Durable Excellent, all weather Not necessary (resin protects)
Porous Volcanic Stone Medium Year-round, all weather Optional (preserves color)
Outdoor Sandstone Medium Designed for garden use Optional (slows aging)
Cambodian Sandstone (wood base) Indoor Only Interior display only Keep dry; no water

Daily Care

Dusting

  • Dust weekly with soft, dry cloth
  • Use soft brush for textured volcanic stone surfaces
  • Compressed air for deep crevices (optional)

Handling

  • Stone is heavy—get help for large pieces
  • Lift from base, not carved details
  • Handle sandstone carefully to avoid chips

Display Location

  • Outdoor: Nearly all our stone sculptures are designed for year-round outdoor placement
  • Indoor: All stone types work beautifully indoors as well
  • Indoor Only: Cambodian sandstone on decorative wood bases (we will specify these)
  • Place on stable, level base to prevent tipping
Full Sun or Full Shade—Both Work Our stone sculptures perform equally well in full sun or deep shade. There is no need to worry about sun exposure, rain, or humidity for any of our outdoor stone types.

Deep Cleaning by Stone Type

For Granite & Dense Volcanic Stone

  1. 1Rinse with garden hose or use damp cloth to remove loose dirt
  2. 2Mix warm water with mild dish soap or pH-neutral stone cleaner
  3. 3Scrub with soft to medium brush (stiffer brush is fine for granite)
  4. 4Rinse thoroughly with clean water
  5. 5Dry with towel or let air dry

Frequency: 2–4 times per year

For Porous Volcanic Stone (Including Colored Pieces)

  1. 1Dust thoroughly first
  2. 2Mix warm water with pH-neutral stone cleaner (avoid harsh soaps)
  3. 3Use soft cloth or soft brush
  4. 4Gently clean—don’t scrub aggressively on colored areas
  5. 5Rinse with clean water and dry thoroughly or let air dry
Note on Colored Lava Stone The artisan-applied colors are permanent and integrated into the stone, not surface paint. Normal cleaning will not remove them. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing which could dull the finish over time.

For Outdoor Sandstone Garden Sculptures

  1. 1Rinse with garden hose to remove loose dirt
  2. 2Mix warm water with pH-neutral stone cleaner
  3. 3Use soft brush gently
  4. 4Rinse thoroughly and let air dry

Frequency: 2–4 times per year. Our outdoor sandstone is designed to weather beautifully and develop natural patina over time.

For Indoor Cambodian Sandstone on Wood Bases

  1. 1Dust stone portion with soft, dry cloth only
  2. 2For stone: barely damp cloth if needed
  3. 3For wood base: dry cloth only—avoid water on wood and finish
  4. 4Never submerge or heavily wet; keep away from moisture

Frequency: Dust weekly, spot clean as needed

For Composite Stone & Terrazzo

  1. 1Rinse or wipe with damp cloth
  2. 2Mix warm water with mild dish soap or stone cleaner
  3. 3Scrub with soft to medium brush
  4. 4Rinse thoroughly and let air dry

Frequency: 2–4 times per year

What NOT to Do

Never use acidic cleaners on any stone (vinegar, lemon juice)

Don’t use harsh chemicals or bleach

Never use wire brushes on colored volcanic stone or sandstone

Don’t use high-pressure washers (can damage details and colored finishes)

Never strike stone with hard objects

Don’t drag stone statues (will scratch base)

Avoid abrasive scrubbers on sandstone

Don’t use oil-based cleaners (can darken and attract dirt)

Never wet the wood bases on indoor Cambodian sandstone pieces

Removing Organic Growth (Moss, Algae, Lichen)

Patina is Optional to Remove Many collectors love the moss and lichen on outdoor volcanic stone and sandstone—it creates beautiful natural patina and aged character. Only remove if you prefer clean stone; it is entirely a personal aesthetic choice.

Method 1 — Mild Solution

  1. 1Mix water with pH-neutral stone cleaner
  2. 2Apply with spray bottle; let sit 15–30 minutes
  3. 3Scrub with soft brush and rinse thoroughly

Method 2 — Biological Cleaner

  1. 1Use a product specifically formulated for stone, such as D/2 Biological Solution
  2. 2Apply per manufacturer instructions; let sit the recommended time
  3. 3Scrub gently and rinse thoroughly

Method 3 — Preventive

  • Keep statue in more sunlight (reduces moss growth)
  • Improve drainage around the base
  • Apply stone sealer to reduce porosity
For Colored Lava Stone Use only gentle biological cleaners. Avoid harsh scrubbing that might dull the integrated mineral colors over time.

Sealing Stone (Optional)

All of our outdoor stone sculptures are weather-resistant without sealing. Sealing is entirely optional, but can provide additional benefits in some cases.

Benefits of Sealing

  • Reduces staining from organic matter
  • Makes cleaning slightly easier
  • Can slow moss and algae growth
  • Helps preserve vibrant colors on colored volcanic stone
  • Provides extra protection in harsh climates

Which Stones Benefit Most

  • Porous volcanic stone (helps preserve colored finishes)
  • Sandstone (slows natural weathering)
  • Any stone in areas with heavy organic debris (leaves, pollen)

Not Necessary For

  • Granite (already extremely dense)
  • Dense volcanic stone (minimal absorption)
  • Composite stone (resin already provides protection)
  • Terrazzo (very dense, already durable)

How to Seal (If Desired)

  1. 1Clean stone thoroughly and let dry completely (48–72 hours)
  2. 2Apply penetrating stone sealer with brush or cloth
  3. 3Let penetrate per manufacturer instructions (usually 10–15 minutes)
  4. 4Wipe off excess and let cure 24 hours
  5. 5Apply second coat if recommended; reapply every 1–2 years if desired

Special Considerations by Stone Type

Granite

  • Extremely durable, minimal care needed; can use stronger brushes for cleaning
  • Perfect for outdoor placement year-round; virtually maintenance-free
  • Sealing completely optional; develops minimal patina

Dense Volcanic Stone

  • Very durable and weather-resistant; minimal maintenance required
  • Develops natural patina outdoors (slight darkening, moss)
  • Can be cleaned back to original appearance; no sealing necessary

Porous Volcanic Stone

  • Fully weather-resistant for all outdoor conditions
  • Absorbs water readily—this is normal and not harmful
  • Can grow moss and lichen, creating beautiful natural patina
  • Lighter weight makes it easier to move; sealing optional

Colored Lava Stone (Artisan-Applied Colors)

  • Colors are permanent and integrated into stone structure—not paint
  • Rain, snow, sun, and freezing will not damage or fade colors
  • Avoid harsh chemicals that could dull finish; sealing recommended for maximum vibrancy
  • Each piece is unique; the color treatment makes no two identical

Outdoor Sandstone Garden Sculptures

  • Designed for outdoor garden placement; softer but weather-resistant
  • Develops beautiful natural patina and weathering over time
  • Some moss and aging adds character—completely normal and beautiful
  • Handles freeze/thaw cycles; sealing optional, slows natural aging

Indoor Cambodian Sandstone on Wood Bases

  • Interior display only; mounted on decorative wood bases with protective finish
  • Keep away from moisture; never wet the wood base
  • Dust regularly with dry cloth; beautiful for home altars, shelves, interior décor

Composite Stone

  • Lighter than natural stone, easier to move; very weather-resistant in all conditions
  • No sealing needed (resin provides protection); can be cleaned more aggressively
  • Perfect for outdoor garden statues year-round; consistent appearance

Terrazzo

  • Extremely durable hand-cast stone; 20+ year outdoor lifespan
  • Very weather-resistant in all climates; no sealing necessary
  • Can handle more aggressive cleaning; handles freeze/thaw perfectly

Understanding Volcanic Stone Variations

Our Indonesian volcanic stone comes in different densities and porosities. Both are authentic volcanic stone from Indonesia—the variation comes from different lava flows and cooling rates. Both are fully weather-resistant.

Porous Lava Stone

Lighter weight with visible porous texture and surface pitting. Readily absorbs water and color treatments. Develops moss/patina more quickly outdoors. More organic, textured appearance. Ideal for artisan color treatments.

Dense Lava Stone

Heavier and more solid with a smoother surface and less visible porosity. Darker, more uniform black color with less water absorption. Develops patina more slowly. More polished appearance. Extremely weather-resistant.

Porous lava stone showing characteristic surface texture and pitting
Porous lava stone showing characteristic surface texture and pitting
Dense lava stone with darker, more uniform coloration
Dense lava stone with darker, more uniform coloration

The Artisan Coloring Process (Lava Stone)

Many of our Indonesian lava stone sculptures feature unique hand-applied coloring created by skilled artisans. This traditional technique transforms raw volcanic stone into living art with rich, permanent coloration that weathers beautifully outdoors.

How It’s Done

  • Special mineral-based color treatments are applied to raw porous lava stone
  • Colors penetrate deep into the stone’s porous structure through multiple absorbed layers
  • Natural variations in porosity create organic, non-repeating color patterns
  • Each piece develops unique coloring—no two are identical

Color Options

  • Earth tones: browns, tans, terracotta
  • Oxidized effects: rust, copper, bronze tones
  • Green and blue-green patinas
  • Multi-colored effects combining several tones
  • Natural gray-black (uncolored)

Permanence & Weather Resistance

  • Colors are integrated into stone, not surface paint—will not wash off, peel, or fade
  • Lasts the lifetime of the sculpture; safe for all outdoor weather conditions
  • Freeze/thaw cycles will not damage colors
  • Colors may deepen slightly over time, adding character and depth
Care for Colored Pieces Clean normally with pH-neutral cleaner. Avoid harsh chemicals or abrasive scrubbing. Sealing is optional but can preserve maximum vibrancy. Colors will not be damaged by any weather conditions, and may develop additional natural moss or patina over the colored base—creating a beautiful layered effect.

Outdoor Stone Care

Weathering & Patina

  • All outdoor stone develops natural patina (aging)—this is beautiful and completely normal
  • Moss, lichen, slight darkening, and color shifts are natural processes
  • Many collectors prefer the aged, weathered look as it adds character and authenticity
  • Can be cleaned periodically to refresh appearance while still allowing natural aging
  • Patina is protective and enhances beauty over time

Placement

  • Use stone base, concrete pad, or place directly on ground
  • Ensure stable, level surface to prevent tipping
  • Consider drainage around statue base to prevent standing water
  • Full sun or shade—both work perfectly for all our stone types

Seasonal Care

  • Clean 2–4 times per year, or as desired
  • Check stability after severe weather
  • No need to bring indoors for winter (except indoor-only Cambodian pieces on wood bases)
  • Granite, volcanic stone, terrazzo, composite, and outdoor sandstone stay out year-round

Freeze / Thaw

  • All our outdoor stone sculptures are designed to handle freezing temperatures
  • No cracking from freeze/thaw cycles—leave outdoors year-round with confidence
  • Water absorption and expansion is normal and will not damage the stone

Stain Removal

Natural Patina vs. Stain Many apparent “stains” on outdoor stone are actually natural patina and aging—part of the beauty of weathered stone sculpture. Composite and terrazzo are generally more stain-resistant than natural stone; most stains on those materials clean easily with soap and water.

Oil Stains

  1. 1Make a poultice: baking soda + water mixed to a thick paste
  2. 2Apply to stain and cover with plastic wrap; let sit 24–48 hours
  3. 3Remove, rinse, and dry; repeat if needed

Organic Stains (Leaves, Flowers, Pollen)

  1. 1Mix hydrogen peroxide with a few drops of ammonia
  2. 2Apply to stain with cloth; let sit 20 minutes
  3. 3Rinse thoroughly and dry completely

Rust Stains

  1. 1Use a commercial rust remover formulated for stone
  2. 2Follow product instructions carefully; consult a professional if stubborn

Water Stains / Mineral Deposits

Usually surface deposits. Often removed with gentle scrubbing and pH-neutral stone cleaner.

Repairing Damage

  • Small chips: Clean area, apply stone epoxy matched to color; let cure completely
  • Hairline cracks: Usually cosmetic, add character; stone garden sculptures rarely develop structural cracks
  • Broken pieces: Save all pieces; for composite/terrazzo, often repairable with epoxy; for valuable carved pieces, consider professional restoration

Ritual Care & Offerings

Water Offerings

Can be poured directly on outdoor stone sculptures—they are designed for rain. For indoor pieces or if you prefer, use a separate bowl.

Oil Anointing

  • Can darken some natural stones
  • Wipe off excess to prevent dust attraction
  • Composite and terrazzo: minimal absorption
  • For indoor Cambodian sandstone: use separate bowl, don’t apply to wood base

Incense

  • Safe for all stone types
  • Ash brushes off easily and will not damage stone or colored finishes

Flowers

  • Can place directly on outdoor stone
  • Pollen may cause temporary staining (washes away with cleaning)
  • For indoor pieces: use separate vases
  • Remove wilted flowers to prevent organic staining

Kumkum / Sindoor (Red Powder)

  • Can be applied directly to outdoor stone for rituals
  • May leave slight staining—this is normal and considered auspicious
  • Becomes part of natural patina; washes off composite and terrazzo more easily

Long-Term Preservation

Outdoor Statues

  • Designed to last decades outdoors with minimal care
  • Develop beautiful character and patina over time
  • Clean periodically to remove excessive buildup if desired; otherwise, let nature work its magic

Indoor Display

  • Can be displayed indoors indefinitely; dust regularly
  • No special preservation needed for stone
  • Indoor Cambodian pieces on wood bases: always keep dry

Moving

  • Stone is heavy—always get help
  • Wrap carefully with thick padding; protect carved details with extra material
  • Mark boxes as fragile and heavy; insure valuable pieces
  • Composite and terrazzo are lighter but still need careful packing

Documentation

  • Photograph when new and periodically as it ages
  • Note stone type and any special finishes (colored lava stone, etc.)
  • Keep record of cleaning and sealing (if done)
  • Track the beautiful aging process over the years

Common Questions

My outdoor stone is turning green and growing moss. Is this bad?

Not at all! This is natural patina—moss, algae, and lichen growth. It’s completely harmless and many collectors love the aged, weathered appearance. It adds character and authenticity. You can clean it off if you prefer, or embrace the natural aging process. The stone is healthy either way.

Will the colors on my lava stone sculpture fade or wash away in the rain?

No. The artisan-applied colors are integrated deep into the porous stone structure, not painted on the surface. They are permanent and weather-resistant. Rain, snow, sun, and freezing temperatures will not damage or fade them. They’ll last the lifetime of the sculpture.

Can my stone statue stay outside during winter and freezing temperatures?

Absolutely! All our outdoor stone sculptures (granite, volcanic stone, sandstone garden pieces, terrazzo, composite) are designed to handle freeze/thaw cycles without damage. Leave them out year-round. The only exception is indoor-only Cambodian sandstone pieces on decorative wood bases.

What’s the difference between porous and dense volcanic stone?

Porous lava stone is lighter, has visible texture, and readily absorbs water and colors—ideal for artisan color treatments and develops patina faster. Dense lava stone is heavier, smoother, darker black, and less absorbent—develops patina more slowly. Both are fully weather-resistant and beautiful, just different aesthetics.

Do I need to seal my outdoor stone statue?

No, sealing is completely optional. All our outdoor stone sculptures are weather-resistant without sealing. Sealing can help preserve appearance longer and slow natural aging, but it’s not necessary for durability or weather resistance.

My stone statue is darker after it rains. Is something wrong?

No, this is completely normal! Porous stone temporarily darkens when wet, just like a sidewalk or driveway. It will dry back to its normal color. This shows your stone is authentic and natural.

How can I tell if my statue is composite stone or natural carved stone?

Composite stone is cast (may have faint seam lines), lighter weight, and has more uniform texture. Natural carved stone shows chisel marks, natural variations, and is usually heavier. Check your receipt or contact us with photos—we’re happy to identify it for you.

How do I know if my sandstone piece is indoor-only or outdoor?

Indoor-only pieces are mounted on decorative wood bases with protective finishes. Outdoor sandstone garden sculptures are carved stone without wood components. If you’re unsure, send us a photo and we’ll confirm.

Should I clean the moss and patina off, or leave it?

That’s entirely your preference! Some people love the clean, “new” look and clean regularly. Others embrace the natural aging, moss, and patina as part of the sculpture’s character and beauty. Both approaches are perfectly fine. The stone is healthy either way.

Can colored lava stone go outside in full sun and rain?

Yes! The colors are permanent and fully weather-resistant. Full sun, rain, snow, and freezing won’t damage them. Sealing is optional to maintain maximum vibrancy, but the colors themselves are integrated into the stone and designed for outdoor conditions.

Quick Reference Card

Stone Care Quick Reference

Print this card and keep it with your stone sculpture collection

Granite
Virtually indestructible • Year-round outdoor • Weekly dust • Quarterly clean • No sealing needed
Dense Volcanic
Very durable • All climates year-round • Weekly dust • Quarterly clean • Sealing optional
Porous Volcanic
Fully weather-resistant • Year-round • Weekly dust • Quarterly clean • Embraces natural aging
Colored Lava Stone
Colors are permanent • All weather • Gentle quarterly clean • pH-neutral cleaner only • Sealing optional
Outdoor Sandstone
Weather-resistant • Garden placement • Weekly dust • Quarterly clean • Ages beautifully
Indoor Sandstone
INDOOR ONLY • Wood base • Dry cloth only • Never wet base • Interior décor
Composite Stone
Very durable • All weather year-round • Low maintenance • No sealing needed
Terrazzo
Extremely durable • 20+ year lifespan • All weather • No sealing needed • Very low maintenance

🚫 Never

  • Use acidic cleaners (vinegar, lemon juice) on any stone
  • Use bleach or harsh chemicals
  • Use wire brushes on colored volcanic stone or sandstone
  • Use high-pressure washers
  • Use oil-based cleaners
  • Wet the wood base on indoor Cambodian sandstone pieces
  • Drag stone statues (will scratch base)