Why do natural stone slabs have the same name but look so different?
Natural stone slabs such as Taj Mahal Quartzite and Giallo Ornamental Granite can exhibit significant variations in appearance even though they share the same name due to the inherent nature of their geological formation. These stones are formed under unique conditions of temperature, pressure, and mineral composition, which can vary widely even within a single quarry. As a result, slabs extracted from different parts of the quarry or at different depths can display diverse patterns, colors, and veining. For instance, Taj Mahal Quartzite may range from creamy whites to subtle grey browns, while Giallo Ornamental can present a spectrum of beige, gold, and brown tones. The mineral impurities, the presence of different types of veins, and the orientation of the stone layers contribute to these natural variations.
The processing and finishing techniques applied to the stone slabs can further accentuate their differences. The way a stone is cut, polished, or honed can influence its final appearance. For example, a highly polished finish can enhance the colors and veining patterns, making them more vibrant and pronounced, whereas a honed or matte finish might give a more subdued look.
Finally, the market naming conventions for natural stones can add to the confusion. The same type of stone might be sold under different names in various regions or by different suppliers. Conversely, different stones with similar visual characteristics might be marketed under the same name for commercial reasons. This practice can lead to discrepancies in appearance among slabs
We encourage our customers view and select the specific slabs they intend to use in person whenever possible to ensure the final look is just what they have envisioned. If customers are unable to visit our showroom we recommend visiting our supplier’s showrooms and doing our best to ensure photographs help convey the true image of the stone. Because the variability of natural stone is well known we stand by our commitment to customer service and will work with customers to find the specific stone that is just the right fit.
