Buying natural landscaping stone can be confusing. Flagstone, Sandstone, Slate, Florida Sunrise, Fieldstone… what should we ask for to build the peaceful waterfall, party patio, winding walkway, or stone stacked wall we have envisioned?

In the first three sessions of Rock Talk, we will learn about the three C’s: “Cut”, “Color”, and “Composition”.

Make it stand out

Whatever it is, the way you tell your story online can make all the difference.

The Cut of a stone describes its shape and determines its possible uses. The jargon used for various “Cuts” will apply across many “Color” and “Composition” categories.

The Color of a stone is a descriptor of its color content and patterning. Color variations are caused by the mineral Composition and geologic formation of the stone as well as environmental and mechanical weathering. The Color of the stone and is a subjective feature and may vary greatly across regions, within a quarry, or even within the pallet or stone itself!

The Composition of a stone is the actual geologic makeup. It is affected by a multitude of different factors including mineral content, geologic activity, and the age of the stone. A stone’s composition is the primary factor in determining how “tough” a stone is. We will dive into composition and toughness in a later session.

Back to Cuts:

Let’s start with what I call the “Mother Cuts”. Note I call them this because they are the original form from which other cuts are made (not because they are a “mother” to move!)

Slabs – Slabs are large, flat stones typically at least 2.5” thick, but not too thick (think 6”). They can be of various Colors and Compositions and are

Out of slabs we get Flagstone, Ruble, and Stair Treads.

Flagstone – any