傳世的硯甚多，其材質有玉、石、陶、瓷、金屬等，主要仍以石質為主流。本文內容以歷代古籍史料為依據，輔以台海兩地官方及民間實物圖版考證；分析中國歷代古硯的發展歷程，探討各朝代制硯的形制特色，文分四階段陳述：一、中國的古硯―究探硯的起源與歷代硯制。二、三大硯雕藝術流派的形成―歸納近代硯雕重要藝術流派及其風格特色。三、硯的材質―探討歷代制硯質材與古今重要硯石產地。四、傳統名硯賞析―分析傳世重要硯石特質以及名品欣賞。本文是為有志於傳統「工藝」從事者在文房製作的賞析中，蘊育出硯石工藝鑑賞的內涵。

During their long history, inkstones have been made of such materials as jade, clay, porcelain, gold, and, especially, stone. This research is primarily based on ancient historical documents, and also takes into account a number of extant plates in Taiwan and mainland China, both official and popular. An analysis was made of the various styles of inkstones which were developed during different dynasties, and the results are presented in four parts: 1) The ancient inkstones of China—Origins and styles; 2) The formation and stylistic features of the three main modern schools of inkstone carving—A summary of their stylistic features; 3) Materials used over the ages and main production sites; and 4) Appreciating ancient and famous inkstones. It is hoped that this research will enhance the appreciation and understanding connoisseurs and masters of traditional craftsmanship have for inkstones.