How many different colors of stones are available?

Natural stone is available in a nearly endless variation of colors, patterns and veining. These may include shades of beige, gray, gold, red, pink, blue, and green.

Can I specify the exact stone color I want?

Granite, marble, and slate may be available in nearly any color, so it may be possible to specify stone color, with some tolerance for shade differences. Not all stones are available in all colors, however. Travertines, for example, are only found in shades of beige, yellow, and gold.

What criteria do I use to select stone color?

The criteria for selecting stone color will depend on the application. Color choice can make a room appear larger or smaller, formal or warm and inviting. Consider the following characteristics: 
 

Lighter colors tend to make a smaller room seem larger. 

 
Dark colors tend to make a room more intimate and cozy. 
 

Solid colors, smooth and polished tiles show more dirt and require more maintenance. 
 

Patterned material, usually in a honed finish, is one of the easiest to maintain. 
 

Dramatic patterns can help highlight and accent portions of the room, including architectural features.

How much variation can I expect from the sample of stone shown?

Each stone is unique, and some types of stone display more variation between the pieces than others. Granites show little variation in color, but may have differing patterns and grain density. Slates tend to show a wide variation in color, even within the same pallet of stone.

What are the neutral stone colors?

The neutral tones found in natural stone include beige, tan, and cream. Most people enjoy these colors, and find that they complement all types of furniture and fixtures.

What are the accent stone colors?

Any color may become an accent color, contrasting with the main color in the room. For example, a white stone border can accent a black floor.

What is grain structure and vein formation in the stone?

The grain structure in a piece of stone was formed during an igneous stone's cooling process. The slower the stone cooled, the larger the grains. “Grain” refers to the crystalline and flowery patterns visible on the stone's surface. Some stones, particularly marble and granite, have a great amount of veining, which is caused by the distribution of various minerals within the stone.