Innovations in Natural Stone Fabrication

The industry is developing exciting ways to solve complex problems, but none are so imperative as finding new solutions for sustainable fabrication.

Innovations have made major strides in recent years, not just in the tech industry. Trends in natural stone fabrication have revitalized the industry. The result is more beautifully crafted stonework in a fraction of the time and with less impact on the environment.

Here's a closer look at some of the biggest trends in natural stone fabrication:

Advancement in vein-matching technology

Nothing's worse than looking down at a marble countertop, seeing the veins cut off, and restarting somewhere else. Mismatched veins ruin the piece's aesthetics and are the bane of stone workers. At least they were an issue before vein-matching became widely available. Vein-matching software and imaging systems let fabricators precisely replicate natural vein patterns of stone slabs. Large stone projects likely need some stone slabs, so using advanced technology to accomplish design uniformity makes these projects look more professional and clean, without odd mismatches or imperfections.

Computer Numerically Controlled (CNC) machines

CNC machines aren't new to natural stone fabrication, but they are making advancements. These machines make fabricating with natural stone as flawless as the most advanced factory design. They're the go-to units for intricate designs because of their precision in cutting, shaping, and polishing stone quickly.

Waterjet cutting

Waterjet cutting can create beautifully intricate designs in a fraction of the time it takes using more traditional methods, from marble and granite to semi-precious stones. They're highly accurate, even more so than laser cutting. Waterjet cutting can deliver whether a client needs intricate waterfall edges or a smooth countertop. Moreover, this technique leaves minimal production waste and doesn't release pollutants into the air. The water used in the machine is also reusable.

Augmented Reality (AR) design

AR has made a splash in the marketing and gaming industry, but it also has applications in natural stone fabrication. AR helps on the design end of fabrication, enabling clients and designers to see what their designs will look like before creation. While not a part of the fabrication stage per se, it does help facilitate conversation and allows the client to see the final design aesthetic before purchasing it.

Sustainable and eco-friendly practices

The industry is developing exciting ways to solve complex problems, but none are so imperative as finding new solutions for sustainable fabrication. Like the waterjet cutting example, the industry is moving away from wasteful practices and finding new ways to reduce waste during production. Whether sourcing materials from sustainable sources or reusing materials, the natural stone fabrication industry continues adopting more eco-friendly practices.

Invest in stunning stones

Natural stone fabrication is a budding industry with great potential. The advancements in stone fabrication techniques, like waterjet cutting and CNC machines, are merely a tiny fraction of the exciting developments in this industry.

If this sounds exciting, contact a local natural stone supplier to see what marvels this fantastic craft could bring to your home.

North Valley Stone Supply LLC is a family-owned and operated hardscape materials company serving Phoenix and surrounding areas. We strive to bring our customers natural stone and quality materials at affordable prices. Call us today at (623)244-8657