natural unfinished stone bases- how to finish and protect them

["Stacy Shure" <shurefamily@zzzzzzzzzzzzz>]

I have many times used uncarved, natural stone as bases.  However I do level
a base at the bottom of the stone.  I do this to ensure the intrigrity of
the piece and maintain a balanced base that will support the sculpture.
Keep in mind - I live in earthquake country and having the stability that a
flat edge provides is essential.  I would recommend that you leave the stone
as unfinished as possible, but make a level edge at the bottom.  Then using
rubber cement, cut felt to a size approximately 1/2 inch smaller than size
and shape of the base edge.  (yes it can be bought at fabric or art stores -
I prefer the heaviest felt available which is most economically purchased by
the foot at a fabric store).

For my "natural" stone bases, if it is marble, I use a diluted solution of
10% muriatic acid to water.  I adjust if necessary based on dirt quantity
and type on the surface of the stone.  Sometimes I use a soft bristle brush
to help scrub the surface with the solution.  Then I rinse the stone
extremely well.    I have used this solution with good effect on the deep
red marbles from Alaska - commonly called jupiter marble (comes from an area
known as Sitka, Alaska).  It brings out the lovely reddish purple of the
stone.  Sometimes I just polish the high spots of the stone, leaving the
rest natural and unfinished which is lovely to do when you have deep
fissures or cracks in the stone.  Lovely contrast!

Stacy Shure