Etchings are used mostly on designs that require a lot of fine detail, such as replicating a photo. Like carving, etchings are permanent, but not as deep as the sandblasted carving. Etching must be completed on black, deep red or dark mahogany granite, they are not suitable for grey stone. The color of the etching itself may vary by either allowing the natural color of the granite to appear through the polish or using a specific color lithochrome paint in the etching.