Each stage of cultivation has its own markers of achievement. Successfully establishing a foundation makes one a Human Immortal; refining qi into spirit makes one an Earth Immortal; and refining spirit to return to emptiness makes one a Celestial Immortal. However, successful cultivation requires four conditions: the Dharma, or theory of cultivation; wealth, or material support; companions for cultivation; and a suitable place to practice. Only with all these conditions can one cultivate an indestructible diamond body, rather than relying on the physical body alone. The four elements that form the illusory body are earth, water, wind, and fire. The true goal is to cultivate an eternal Dharma body.
