Stone sculpture stone carving. Alabaster and softer kinds of serpentine, all about 3 on the Mohs scale, are more durable than soapstone. Alabaster, in particular, has long been cherished for its translucence. Limestone and sandstone, at about 4 on the Mohs scale, are the only sedimentary stones commonly carved. Limestone comes in a popular oolitic variety, about twice as hard as alabaster, that is excellent for carving. The harder serpentines can also reach 4 on the Mohs scale. Marble, travertine, and onyx are at about 6 on the Mohs scale. Marble has been the preferred stone for sculptors in the European tradition
Shining Stone Community Action in 2002; the co-founder and president is Song Qinghua. The NGO closely cooperates with national and foreign foundations including Canadian Harmony Foundation, German Konrad-Adenauer-Stiftung, Chinese Vantone Foundation, and American Ford Foundation. The organization also carries out pilot projects and gives trainings on behalf of Chinese authorities (e.g. Chinese Ministry of Civil Affairs and Beijing Hepingli Sub-District). The American Ford Foundation has supported SCCA's mission and activities since the founding of the NPO in 2002. Shining Stone Community Action Shining Stone Community Action (SSCA; Chinese: 社区参与行动) is a Beijing-based non-profit organization whose mission is to engage citizens in public decision making.