Finding the Premium Block of Natural Stone
As importers and suppliers of premium quality natural stone, we regularly visit stone quarries throughout the world. But how do we choose the right block from a quarry, how is it processed, and how does that block of stone find its way into our warehouse? What do we look for in a block of natural stone that determines its premium quality?
There are many characteristics we look for in the stone, but predominantly consistency of colour, mineral deposits, and veining determines what we consider to be Sareen Stone premium.
Importantly we check the stone for defects or cracks, or brittleness.
It’s also important we know what the block will be used for – for example, will it need to be honed or tumbled, and what is it going to be used for – flooring, or walling?
Natural Stone Block Selection
Cutting Natural Stone
The block of stone is cut into slabs using machines such as gang saws. This can be a time-consuming process and, depending on the density of the material, can take up to 6 hours to cut an entire block.
After the cutting, the stone then goes through a milling (calibrating) machine. The slabs, tiles, and pavers are calibrated to within +/- 1-2mm tolerance thickness. Like cutting, calibrating is also a time-consuming process that is critical to delivering a premium product.
If suitable, the stone is then sold as slabs. If the stone is not suitable to be cut into slabs, they are cut into tiles or pavers.
Slabs of Natural Stone
Cutting Natural Stone
Applying the Finish to the Natural Stone
The finish is then applied to the tiles and pavers. Different types of natural stone are finished differently based initially on the hardness of the stone and with consideration for the final application of the stone. For example, limestone is relatively softer than granite and therefore will be treated differently. Marble is predominantly used indoors and is treated differently from sandstone which is used inside and out.
Granite being flamed & the tile processing line
Packing Natural Stone
One more all-important final check is made and then all is packed securely ready for the journey to our warehouse.
Last selection check and then the tiles get packed and ready for shipment
Shipping Natural Stone
The stone is shipped, usually from the other side of the world, to Port Botany in Sydney. The shipping process can take anywhere from 4 to 12 weeks, sometimes longer.
Delivery day. It’s always exciting when a new shipment of natural stone arrives. The delivery into the warehouse is then meticulously stacked and housed.
To order your samples of any of Sareen Stone’s range of natural stone contact our knowledgeable Staff at 02 9666 9222 or email info@sareenstone.com.au.
