The first way is using a diamond etch tool and a very talented artist.  The etching tool is used like a pencil and the artist literally scratches the design into the stone.  This method shows the creativity and uniqueness of each artist.

The other method is through machine equipped with a laser and computer scanning.  While this leaves out any customization of an artist this method is much more detailed when etching portraits from photographs.

Both methods leave a beautiful appearance on any of the black granite stones. And it is possible to add multiple colors to the etching although the coloring will begin to fade after several years and need to be redone.