A classic Suiseki characteristically has a beautiful patina, and the silky glow adds to the stone's value. There are several widely accepted methods of bringing out this quality in a stone.

Hand Rubbing
Hand rub your stone every day for 30 - 50 years. Although lengthy, this method is a simple, traditional practice among suiseki collectors.

Using Oils: glycerin, olive oil, baby (mineral) oil
Stones that have a smooth surface respond best to oil treatment. Your stone will have a beautiful patina after the guaranteed method outlined below.

1. Rub the dry stone with one of the oils above, covering splits and cracks.
2. Leave in the sun for three months, away from moisture from rain or dew.
3. Rub the stone with oil again after 3 months. Polish it vigorously using a toothbrush, shoe brush, etc.
4. Then carefully wipe the stone with a clean cloth
5. Then rub stone with human body oil from your forehead and hands.
6. Repeat steps 3-5 every month for a year.

Talcum Powder
Since talcum powder is white and oily, it has been found by some collectors to enhance the patina of their stones, in conjunction with the "oils" method above.

1. Follow the "Using oils" method above
2. After 1-2 days, rub stone with talcum powder and brush strongly
3. Repeat talcum rub every month.