Selection criteria for decorative dimension stones

Selection of decorative dimension stones suitable for exterior and interior decorations is one of the challenging tasks for geologists, architectural, structural and civil engineers. Therefore, understanding the knowledge of general properties of commercial grade rocks and their quality assessment are at most important before selecting stones for construction. In many instances, decorative dimension stones are usually preferred on the basis proximity. In such cases, the colour and textural characteristics may not only be suitable, but also weather out faster. In some instances, specific design may not suits the structure due to masking colour and other inherent defects. One of the secrets behind the success of commercial stone industry is the production of defect-free decorative dimension stone blocks. Generally, not all rocks available in the earth’s crust are suitable for architectural and civil engineering construction purposes. In this study, the main criteria for the selection of commercial grade decorative dimension rocks will be discussed along with their trade names. Sometimes, trade names of rocks confuse with generic names. Here, therefore, both names of rocks, particularly marketed in India are given to avoid confusion among geologists, engineers and business persons. In addition, non-destructive methods of testing the mechanical properties of rocks - such as ultrasonic pulse velocity and uniaxial compressive strength are discussed. These methods seem to substitute the conventional, hazardous and destructive method of testing of decorative dimension stones.