Though each instrument differs in size and range, they share key design elements. All rely on vibrating strings stretched over a wooden, hollow body to produce sound, with the tone shaped by craftsmanship and material choice. Strings are either bowed, plucked, or, in the case of the harp, played directly with the fingers.

Strings:
Typically made from gut, steel, or synthetic materials.
Violin, viola, cello, and bass have four strings, tuned in fifths (except bass, tuned in fourths).
The harp has 47 strings, each corresponding to a specific pitch.
‍Fingerboard/Neck:
Violin, viola, cello, and bass are fretless, allowing for smooth pitch control and expressive slides.
The harp does not have a fingerboard; notes are changed with pedals and hand position.Resonating Body:
Made primarily from spruce (top) and maple (back and sides), the body amplifies the sound and shapes its tone.
‍Bridge:
A wooden piece that supports the strings and transmits their vibrations to the instrument’s body.Sound Holes:F-shaped holes in the violin, viola, cello, and bass help project sound.The harp's soundboard has small holes to release vibration.
‍Bows and Plucking:
Violin, viola, cello, and bass are played with bows made from horsehair, but can also be plucked (pizzicato).
The harp is played entirely by plucking strings with fingers.