Types of Stone
We do our best to purchase the same color range of slabs from our vendors. However, variation does occur.

Marble
Marble is made up of mostly calcium carbonates and other minerals. The combination of immense heat and pressure made in the earth makes marble over thousands of years. The calcium carbonates and other minerals make up the large variety of color ranges you will see. Color, fissures and veining are all a result of the natural process and make up of marble. Marble is quarried around the world in many countries, even the USA.

Limestone
This sedimentary stone has been formed from layers of creatures millions of years ago. Limestone is one of the most versatile of the stones. The texture, color and density can change from block to block from the quarry. The range in color tone is from off white to dark tan and gold. Some limestones are dense enough to polish.

Travertine
Millions of years ago heat gases and water created the best of both worlds, a dense stone with voids and fissures that may be polished and is now called travertine. Travertine is rustic and has color variations. Color range is from light creams to deep reds.

Slate
Slate, rock formed with fine grains of sedimentary rock. Shale metamorphous by great pressure creates broad cleaved, thin layers in different directions. The sedimentary rock forms from the compression crumples and creates many layers. Flaky minerals cause sedimentary rock as clay, mica and chlorite to be redistributed. Slate has different grades in hardness and the ability to shale. Colors are tan to gray-blue. Slate is mined in the United States, the United Kingdom and other countries around the world.

Sandstone
Rock formed by grains of sand cementing together. Most sandstone is made up of silica, iron oxides and calcium carbonate. The character of the sandstone varies in hardness depending on the cementing materials; sandstones that cement with quartz are the hardest. Some sandstone’s contain fossil shells, iron oxides and feldspars. Most sandstone has some movement in color shades and unique variation.

Stone is a product of nature and therefore has tremendous variation from piece to piece. Requesting a sample will give you a general idea of the stone color however, variation and movement of the stone will not be represented in one sample.

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Choosing a contractor is just as important as choosing your moldings. A contractor can enhance or take away from the beauty of the installation. Asking your designer or architect for installer recommendations is a great idea.

There are a few very important things to check before choosing your installer: make sure they are fully insured, a registered contractor with your state, and can provide references. Take the time to contact the references. If possible, ask the references if you can see the installation. It is also crucial that the installer has knowledge and experience in installation of natural stone.

Get a few bids and compare their prices. Don’t be fooled by a low price, if something sounds too good to be true…it usually is. Always go with your first instinct, if you don’t feel 100% confident or comfortable with a contractor move on to another one.

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Our products are just a part of the beautiful design you are having installed into your home or commercial location. You and your professional designer or architect has gone to great lengths to choose the best products for you and have created a beautiful design for you to enjoy for the years to come. Please select a professional licensed tile and stone installer. Check at least three references, make sure licenses are current and most of all, you want to work with someone you will trust to do a great job.

Marble, travertine, and limestone are products of nature and no two pieces are exactly alike. Carving and shaping of stone brings out the natural voids, fissures and veins. We strongly recommend you, your customer and the installer inspect the material prior to installation and prepare any blending required to meet the owner/buyer approval before installation. We also recommend the installer to fill the voids and fissures with grout. Natural Stone is porous and may absorb moisture when installed outside. Damage to the stone may occur if installed in a freeze frost environment.

When installing we recommend a 1/16” or 1/8” grout joint depending on the design of the installation. Non sanded or sanded grout should be used depending on the finish of the stone.

Make sure to consult with your installer regarding grout joints sealers and stone blending. Quality installation is key to enjoying the beauty of our moldings.