Stone World 201001

January 2010
www.stoneworld.com
Fabricator Market Forecast

Report from Liguria, Italy
001 Cover.indd 4 12/21/09 1:10:52 PM
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January 2010 • Vol. 27, No. 1
www.stoneworld.com
FEATURES
34 Fabricators predict improvement for 2010
46
Fabricator Case Studies
46 Adapting for continued success
54 Nevada fabricator merges technology and craftsmanship
62 Defining a flagship building in stone
66 Exploring Liguria’s stone heritage

70 The palazzos and churches of Liguria
72 Processing slate since 1925
74 An innovator in slate production
76 Working slate with advanced technology
78 Operating an historic quarry site
80 Seeking pure Rosso Levanto 62
82 Making a science of stone production
84 Fabricating Technology
DEPARTMENTS
16 Stone Column
19 Newsline
22 Statistics
26 News
87 Calendar
88 New Literature
90 New Products 66
91 New Equipment
92 Stone of the Month
93 Machine of the Month
94 Marketplace
97 Classified On the Cover: For this kitchen space, Perfection Connection of Carson City, NV,
fabricated slabs of Delirium granite. The edge profile is a 2-cm Ogee with a 4-cm
98 Ad Index
bullnose. A full-length feature on Perfection Connection starts on page 54, one of
many fabricator-related features in this issue.
Coming Next Month: In February, Stone World will present its annual “Report
from Latin America,” which will include a look at the stone producers from this
region. The next edition will also include a series of Fabricator Case Studies as
well as project articles focusing on the latest uses of stone in architecture.
STONE WORLD Volume 27, Issue 1 (ISSN 1052-6994) is published 12 times annually, monthly, by BNP Media, 2401 W. Big Beaver Rd., Suite 700, Troy, MI 48084-4903. Telephone: (248) 362-3700, Fax: (248) 362-0317. No charge for subscriptions to qualif ed individuals. Annual rate
for subscriptions to nonqualif ed individuals in the U.S.A.: $104.00 USD. Annual rate for subscriptions to nonqualif ed individuals in Canada: $137.00 USD (includes GST & postage); all other countries: $154.00 (int’l mail) payable in U.S. funds. Printed in the U.S.A. Copyright 2010, by
BNP Media. Periodicals Postage Paid at Troy, MI and at additional mailing off ces. All rights reserved. The contents of this publication may not be reproduced in whole or in part without the consent of the publisher. The publisher is not responsible for product claims and representations.
POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: STONE WORLD, P.O. Box 2144, Skokie, IL 60076. Canada Post: Publications Mail Agreement #40612608. GST account: 131263923. Send returns (Canada) to Bleuchip International, P.O. Box 25542, London, ON, N6C 6B2. Change of address:
Send old address label along with new address to STONE WORLD, P.O. Box 2144, Skokie, IL 60076. For single copies or back issues: contact Ann Kalb at (248) 244-6499 or KalbA@bnpmedia.com.
Stone World | January 2010 13
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STONE COLUMN
LEGITIMATE SIGNS OF LIFE IN 2010
In this issue of Stone World, we present our annual Fabricator Market Forecast (page 34), where hundreds
of stone fabrication professionals from around the country offer their predictions for the coming year as
well as their expectations for the long-term. Moreover, this study gauges how stone fabricators plan to
spend their money in 2010 — in real dollar amounts.
Perhaps surprising, the fabricators we polled are relatively optimistic about the coming year. While the full
report on page 34 is a must-read for anyone in the industry, the following is a brief summary of the results:
• 45% said the stone market will increase in 2010; 40% said it would stay the same; only 15%
said there would be further declines
• Looking five to 10 years down the road: 83% said the stone market will increase; 11% said it
would stay the same; only 6% said it would decline
Fabricators gave a number of reasons for their guarded optimism, mostly citing an improving
economy and housing market — particularly with regard to models. “Customers will remodel
the homes they are living in and make them more comfortable, especially kitchens,” stated one
fabricator.
A number of fabricators also said that business simply “can’t get any worse” than it was in
2009. “I have a gut feeling that things have hit bottom and will begin to pick up in the second
quarter of 2010,” stated one respondent, while another commented, “I believe that people have
been sitting on their money because of the economy, and after three years of that, some customers will
need to update their home or just fi x it up to sell.”
Going beyond opinions, the Stone World Fabricator Market Survey asked industry professionals how
they planned to invest this year. About half of the fabricators polled said they are planning equipment
investments in 2010, and highlights include:
• One out of 10 fabricators will buy a CNC machine this coming year, expecting to spend close to $200,000.
• One out of 10 fabricators will buy a waterjet this coming year, expecting to spend close to $185,000.
• One out of five fabricators will buy a bridge saw this coming year, expecting to spend close to $80,000.
• One out of five fabricators will buy a polisher this coming year, expecting to spend close to $50,000.
• One out of six fabricators will invest in air/water treatment, expecting to spend more than $20,000.
• One out of three fabricators will invest in handling equipment, expecting to spend close to $35,000.
Based on these survey results, it is clear that although 2010 will not be a return to the glory days of
2006, there should be quite a bit more activity in the industry. Some folks out there are planning major
investments — many for the first time in several years. The general consensus seems to be that consumers
are emerging from their “cocoon of fear” that has hampered our industry for several years, and fabricators
are preparing themselves for an upswing in business.
There are plenty of other positive indicators in our survey that I don’t have room to mention in this
column — which is why you need to read the report on page 34 — and the majority of them point to a
rebound (of some sort) in the coming year.
Michael Reis, Editor/Associate Publisher
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NEWSLINE
STONEXPO/MARMOMACC AMERICAS AND SURFACES ANNOUNCE
CO-LOCATION BEGINNING IN 2011 . . .
Hanley Wood Exhibitions announced that StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas and Surfaces will co-locate beginning
in January of 2011. Both exhibitions will be held at Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV, from January 26 to 28, with
conferences beginning on January 25.
Over the past several years, organizers report that StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas has experienced a steady
increase in quality attendees, and an expansion of exhibit offerings to include more natural stone as well as
alternative surfaces. They stated that the co-location of StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas and Surfaces is a natural
fit for both events.
“The decision to co-locate StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas and Surfaces was made for several reasons,” stated
Dana Teague, Surfaces and StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas Show Director. “Combining the two events will
allow the stone industry and the flooring industry unparalleled education and networking opportunities as well
as exposure to the largest product selection of any show of its kind. Also, moving StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas
to late January gives those exhibitors who also take part in Marmomacc in Verona, Italy, the chance to catch their
breath before heading to Las Vegas.”
“The Marble Institute is supportive of the decision to co-locate StonExpo with Surfaces beginning in 2011,” said
Gary Distelhorst, CAE, Executive Vice President and CEO of the Marble Institute of America, also an Official Sponsor
of StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas. “We feel this provides an incredible opportunity for StonExpo exhibitors to get
exposure to the approximately 25,000 attendees at Surfaces, as well as a great opportunity for StonExpo registrants to
visit the Surfaces trade show and meet new suppliers, see new products and obtain new knowledge. In today’s world
of needing to be nimble and innovative, the co-location of StonExpo and Surfaces seems to me to be a home run.”
Other industry veterans have supported the decision, pointing to the additional contact with the design community
as an advantage for both shows. “We are very excited about the impending co-location of the StonExpo and Surfaces
shows,” states Mark Fernandes, President of Luck Stone Corp. “There is clearly an opportunity for the stone industry
to benefit from the visibility we will gain as a result of the foot traffic and demographic of the Surfaces event.”
As the Official Sponsor of Surfaces, the World Floor Covering Association welcomes the move, stating that the
products and services available at both shows are complementary, and the mix of attendees is very similar. “Year
after year, Surfaces broadens its product scope to encompass everything the consumer is looking for when building
or purchasing a new home. From the ‘Window and Wall Covering’ pavilion introduced in 2005 to the newly created
‘Above the Baseboard’ pavilion, Surfaces continually strives to meet the needs of our attendees and their customers,”
said Chris Davis, President and CEO of the World Floor Covering Association. “This co-location is a natural progression
for the show and will only enhance and strengthen the commitment Surfaces has for the entire industry. We’re glad
to have StonExpo join us in 2011 and look forward to working together in making both shows a huge success.”
StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas and Surfaces will continue to offer separate conference programs focusing on the
unique needs of each trade. While the two events will have separate entrances into the exhibit hall, attendees will be
free to visit exhibits for both shows.
StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas’ Official Sponsors are the Marble Institute of America (MIA) and Natural Stone
Council. For more information on StonExpo/Marmomacc Americas, call 866-550-6808 or visit www.StonExpo.com.
ELBERTON GRANITE ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

THOMAS A. ROBINSON TO RETIRE . . .
After 37 years in the stone industry, and nearly 30 years with the Elberton Granite Association (EGA), Thomas A.
Robinson announced his retirement as Executive Vice President of the organization, which is based in Elberton, GA.
“I have been working in the stone business since 1972,” Robinson said. “I joined the Elberton Granite Association
in 1980, and in 1990, I was offered the position as Executive Vice President. During this time, the ‘diamond revolution’
was well on its way to changing the way we saw, grind and even polish. Diamonds began showing up in just about
every step of production. This allowed natural stone to once again be competitive with other building materials.”
According to Robinson, it was this development that helped the stone industry advance to new heights. “In my
opinion, the revolution of the man-made diamond and its application to various pieces of production equipment
jump-started the stone industry into the 21st century,” he explained.
Speaking on the current state of the industry, Robinson said that international competition remains a constant
challenge. “Today, more than ever, the industry is operating in a global market,” he said. “Foreign suppliers prefer
to set up their own distributors rather than allowing just anyone to represent their stone. In my opinion, the
marketplace has become more competitive. New automated machinery must be developed so that U.S. producers can
create an advantage for their products and services.”
Looking back on his tenure with the EGA, Robinson pointed to the growth of products coming out of the Elberton
region as particularly rewarding. “One of the most satisfying events for the Elberton producers has been their
willingness to manufacture a variety of stones,” he said. “We want to establish Elberton as the ‘stone source.’ We are
more than gray granite. The industry is moving in that direction, and that can only mean good things for the area.”
019-020 Newsline.indd 19 12/21/09 1:24:15 PM

NEWSLINE
VERMONT QUARRIES ANNOUNCES ACHIEVEMENT OF GREENGUARD
CERTIFICATION FOR MARBLE SURFACING . . .
Vermont Quarries of Mendon, VT, has announced its achievement of Greenguard Indoor Air Quality and
Greenguard Children & Schools Certification for marble surfacing. Greenguard-certified products must meet
stringent emissions requirements set by the Greenguard Environmental Institute (GEI), such as being screened
for more than 10,000 chemicals. Greenguard-certified products are recognized, referenced or preferred by many
retailers, companies, institutions, government agencies, environmental programs, standards and specifications
around the globe. All certified products can be found in a free online product guide at www.greenguard.org.
Vermont Quarries also reports being the first quarry to have its complete line of marble certified
under this program. Vermont Danby marble has met the qualification standards for LEED certification
credit 7.1: Heat Island Effect, non-roof: Using light-colored natural stone with a solar-reflective index of
20 or greater can reduce heat-island effects. Danby marble comes in at over 60, the company reports.
All Danby slabs will be labeled with the Greenguard certification stickers. This will let clients know that not only is Danby
marble highly suitable for kitchens due to its low absorption, but it is also a clean and safe marble to use in their home.
In regards to commercial projects, it is possible that the Greenguard certification will qualify Danby marble for
another LEED certification point under innovation and design. With LEED certifications so far, Danby marble
will add to any project within 500 miles of the quarry two LEED points confirmed — with a possible third
with Greenguard. If the project is outside of the 500 mile radius, a minimum of one to two points will still apply.
Finally, Vermont Quarries is announcing its availability to give companies a CEU Learning AIA Credit with a
presentation on “Marble Use in the Kitchen.” Everyone in attendance, including architects and designers, will receive
one learning credit. This is for both interior designers as well as architects. Find out more at www.vermontquarries.com.
U.S. INTERNATIONAL TRADE COURT RULES FOR ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ORDERS

AGAINST CERTAIN DIAMOND SAW BLADES FROM CHINA AND KOREA . . .
The U.S. Court of International Trade recently ordered the U.S. Department of Commerce to issue and publish
anti-dumping duty orders and order the collection of cash deposits on subject diamond saw blades from China
and Korea. The move is in response to a petition from the “Diamond Sawblades Manufacturers Coalition,” and as
a result, the Department of Commerce will direct U.S. Customs and Border Protection to suspend liquidation and
collect cash deposits on diamond saw blades from China and Korea at ad valorem rates.
Although the International Trade Commission (ITC) initially reported that the U.S. was not materially injured or
threatened with material injury by reason of imports of saw blades from China and Korea, that finding was challenged
by the Diamond Sawblades Manufacturers Coalition. Ultimately, the ITC changed its determination and found that a
U.S. industry is threatened with material injury by reason of imports of saw blades from China and Korea.
While the U.S. companies in the Diamond Sawblade Manufacturers Coalition are based primarily in the concrete
industry, the ruling is also said to affect the natural stone industry. The products covered by these orders are all
finished circular saw blades, whether slotted or not, with a working part that is comprised of a diamond segment
or segments and parts thereof, regardless of specification or size. Among the exceptions to this order are saw blades
with diamonds directly attached to the core with a resin or electroplated bond, as well as diamond saw blades and/
or saw blade cores with a thickness of less than 0.025 inches or greater than 1.1 inches.
In its final determination, the Department of Commerce ruled that concave and convex cores, and finished diamond
saw blades produced from such cores, are within the scope of the investigations. It also ruled that metal-bonded
diamond 1A1R grinding wheels and granite contour diamond saw blades are within the scope of the investigations.
ONE LINERS . . .
The Stone Fabricators Alliance officially launched its new Web site during StonExpo. The Web site is dedicated
to helping fellow stone fabricators learn through the exchange of information in a forum-based blog. The Stone
Fabricators Alliance (SFA) is a member-driven organization made up of stone fabricators, stone restoration
professionals, vendors and equipment manufacturers that come together to discuss how to improve the natural
stone industry. The new site can be found at www.stonefabricatorsalliance.com.
Groves, Inc. of Woodstock, IL, announced the promotion of Ryan Jentel to Sales Manager for all of its product
lines in glass and stone storage/fabrication systems. Jentel previously held the position of Account Executive for the
“Ready Rack” line of fire department storage systems at Groves. He will oversee all aspects of the sales cycle, from
customer contact to order delivery. “Since I’ve been involved here, we’ve brought dozens of new and innovative
products to market,” said Jentel. “2010 will definitely see that trend continue and even increase. It’s an exciting time
for Groves, Inc. and for me personally.” For more information, call 800-991-2120 or visit www.Groves.com.
Any questions regarding Newsline, contact: Newsline Editor, Stone World, 210 Route 4 East, Suite 203,
Paramus, NJ 07652; Fax: 201-291-9002; E-mail: michael@stoneworld.com.
019-020 Newsline.indd 20 12/21/09 1:24:21 PM

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caesarstonesw01104.indd 1 12/15/09 10:46:55 AM

STATISTICS
September 2009 | Imports to the U.S. Customers value in dollars does not include insurance or freight
COUNTRY GRANITE MARBLE* SLATE** OTHER***

U.S. $ TONS U.S. $ TONS U.S. $ U.S. $ TONS
ALBANIA 16,351 23
ARAB EMIRATES 42,162 122
ARGENTINA 43,551 40 166,056 83
BELGIUM 181,583 62 10,805 98
BRAZIL 32,025,718 39,118 196,728 145 464,558 285,285 342
BULGARIA 54,004 57
CANADA 1,348,586 3,836 720,800 3,139 261,886 2,276,764 2,645
CHILE 4,693 4
CHINA 16,616,193 23,221 7,731,720 8,456 2,148,864 931,712 1,017
COLOMBIA 47,624 110
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC 57,600 111 125,364 327
EGYPT 11,474 20 437,342 643
FINLAND 2,138 1
FRANCE 992,214 545 2,966 22,220 17
GERMANY 6,919 3 250,207 161 2,719 9,570 9
GREECE 258,739 199
HONG KONG 64,898 64 59,960 38
INDIA 7,667,912 14,899 435,839 558 1,926,054 2,378,448 26,536
INDONESIA 91,177 568 393,991 478 15,997 31
IRELAND 3,168 1
ISRAEL 74,160 31 884,362 793
ITALY 7,225,629 6,927 7,420,458 4,000 81,589
JAPAN 2,881 1
JORDAN 70,855 130
KOREA 5,450 1
LEBANON 38,308 48
LIECHTENSTEIN 7,825 1
MALAYSIA 14,756 21
MEXICO 8,775 4 4,235,520 9,611 23,280 380,954 3,312
NORWAY 8,844 6
PAKISTAN 334,061 203
PERU 1,064,953 1,062
PHILIPPINES 19,709 70 159,469 195 3,450 18
POLAND 3,097 1
PORTUGAL 34,788 20 1,328,785 990
ROMANIA 4,851 2
SAUDI ARABIA 31,775 34
SINGAPORE 49,431 61
SPAIN 640,830 731 2,051,930 1,446 134,291 59,249 42
SWEDEN 19,414 41
SWITZERLAND 11,263 3
TAIWAN 2,021,367 1,884 90,584 83 3,238 1
THAILAND 5,720 19 103,985 12 5,646
TOKELAU 4,750 45
TUNISIA 59,945 12,906
TURKEY 3,321 3 21,077,421 39,361 3,677 5
UNITED KINGDOM 25,757 3 106,507 54,958 1,264
URUGUAY 36,549 27
ZIMBABWE 695,103 345 2,787 1
OTHER 387,914 275 206,419 327 16,654 37,481 190
TOTAL SEPTEMBER 2009 69,150,064 92,298 51,350,834 86,432 5,175,014 6,501,422 35,553
TOTAL SEPTEMBER 2009 95,376,063 193,066 76,611,672 134,330 8,344,599 7,676,152 46,890
*includes marble, travertine, alabaster and other calcareous stone, **tonnage figures not available, ***includes dolomite, sandstone, quartzite, basalt, porphyry and other non-specific
monumental or building stone SOURCE: U.S. Department of Commerce
022-024 Stats.indd 22 12/21/09 3:34:34 PM

cactussw01104.indd 1 12/16/09 9:25:55 AM
STATISTICS
September 2009 | Exports from the U.S. Customers value in dollars does not include insurance or freight
COUNTRY GRANITE MARBLE* SLATE** OTHER***

U.S. $ TONS U.S. $ TONS U.S. $ U.S. $ TONS
ANTIGUA 22,900 10
ARGENTINA 3,820 20
ARUBA 70,500 20
AUSTRALIA 15,690 2 51,176 17
AUSTRIA 141,552 41
BAHAMAS 84,460 45 92,460 83 4,627 41,711 28
BARBADOS 5,866 1 24,909 19
BELGIUM 69,917 224
BELIZE 20,990 42
BERMUDA 82,302 4 3,395 1 15,485 1
BRITISH VIRGIN ISLANDS 6,798 1 9,743 3 44,720 89
CANADA 1,835,894 2,260 860,833 10,161 180,235 3,157,375 11,671
CAYMAN ISLANDS 46,150 20 14,425 23 2,925 1
CHINA 1,271,875 3,646 22,421 40 144,658 718
COSTA RICA 19,609 23
DENMARK 6,132 11
FRANCE 574,700 30
GERMANY 54,760 226
GREECE 42,749 85
GUATEMALA 24,767 22
HONDURAS 35,584 20 23,233 15
ISRAEL 7,277 3 10,299 1
ITALY 299,040 757 29,097 26 44,540 121
JAMAICA 7,857 3
JAPAN 8,240 16 22,890 82
KOREA 5,800 1 32,543 29
MALAYSIA 2,900 8
MEXICO 163,367 274 86,657 603 3,655 13,027 16
N. ANTILLES 5,778 8 5,510 1
NETHERLANDS 2,629 1
NEW ZEALAND 2,528 1 53,694 70
NICARAGUA 3,300
PANAMA 2,700 1
PERU 3,465 2
PHILIPPINES 18,140 4
PORTUGAL 24,299 417 2,592
SWITZERLAND 29,000 10
TAIWAN 44,896 221
THAILAND 20,516 1
UNITED KINGDOM 186,558 58 11,008 21 28,595
VENEZUELA 36,937 19 3,240 5
OTHER 6,106 1 35,732 140 41,251 10,940 13
TOTAL SEPTEMBER 2009 4,429,379 7,762 1,935,408 11,653 264,255 3,818,907 13,142
TOTAL SEPTEMBER 2008 6,331,343 9,754 1,800,804 10,637 216,884 3,428,751 19,479
*includes marble, travertine, alabaster and other calcareous stone, **tonnage figures not available, ***includes dolomite, sandstone, quartzite, basalt, porphyry and other non-specific
monumental or building stone SOURCE: U.S. Department of Commerce
PRODUCT SOURCING
PRODU MADE EASY.
Check out the 2010 Online Version
of Stone World’s Stone Guide at
www.stoneworld.com/stoneguide
S E A R C H A B L E • C O M P R E H E N S I V E • I N F O R M AT I V E
24SW_stoneguidestats_housead1209.indd
January 2010 | Stone World 1 12/21/09 3:33:01 PM
022-024 Stats.indd 24 12/21/09 3:34:34 PM

laserprodsw01104.indd 1 12/9/09 9:47:54 AM
NEWS
FREE STONE DESIGN com. These two entities have been
“SIMULATION” PROGRAM cooperating since 2008 to offer a work-
IS OFFERED ing tool for users of natural stone.
VERONA, ITALY — Offering stone Stonexperience.com simulates a
fabricators a chance to visualize stone broad spectrum of applications in natu-
designs in three-dimensional models, ral stone — showcasing a range of types Marmi Bruno Zanet has teamed with Brazilian
stone producer Marmi Bruno Zanet and colors in many settings. The goal is design firm Zidea to develop www.stonexperience.
com, which offers stone fabricators a chance
has teamed with Brazilian design firm to allow users to imagine and conceive
to visualize stone designs in three-dimensional
Zidea to develop www.stonexperience. how they will use stone in their projects. models.
H[FOXVLYHO\E\
,QWHUQDWLRQDO0DFKLQH&RUSRUDWLRQ
The Stonexperience.com visual is able to simulate

interiors with 30 types of natural stone in a total of
16 three-dimensional scenes, changing the layout
of the floor and the colors of the walls and the
furnishings.
This program is available free of

charge at the www.stonexperience.com
Web site. Three-dimensional models
can be created from every angle of
view, and everything can be custom-
ized with a wide range of materials and
in a multitude of colors. According to
the company, the result is a realistic
rendering of the interior composition
with the chosen types and characteris-
tics of materials.
The Stonexperience.com visual is
able to simulate interiors with 30 types
of natural stone in a total of 16 three-
dimensional scenes, changing the
layout of the floor and the colors of the
walls and the furnishings.
Founded in 1958, Marmi Bruno
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THE TUSCANY COLLECTION

SUPPLIES SANDSTONE FOR
UNLV PROJECT
PH: 631-244-8277 Fax: 631-244-8329 LAS VEGAS, NV — In the article
1711 Church Street, Unit B Holbrook, NY 11741 “Sandstone unifies campus design at
www.internationalmachinecorp.com UNLV,” which ran in the November
2009 issue of Stone World, the red and
beige sandstone used for the exterior of

imcsw07094.indd 1 6/15/09 11:59:22 AM
026-032 News.indd 26 12/21/09 1:31:08 PM

texastonesw10094.indd 1 9/14/09 11:20:06 AM
NEWS
Greenspun Hall on the campus of the tional campaign for CarraraMarmotec
University of Nevada, Las Vegas (UNLV) 2010, the 30th International Exhibition
was supplied by The Tuscany Collection of Marble, Technology and Design,
of Las Vegas, NV. extended its program to involve a pro-
The sandstone exterior was selected motional tour in Morocco and Tunisia
for the 120,000-square-foot building to where from — November 15 to 19
maintain a cohesiveness with the uni- —meetings, seminars and events were
versity’s overall architecture. “There is held to show authorities and operators
a theme at UNLV where other buildings The red and beige sandstone used for the exterior the exhibition program and the oppor-
of Greenspun Hall on the campus of UNLV was
on campus also have sandstone clad- tunities open to an area that has always
supplied by The Tuscany Collection of Las Vegas.
ding,” according to a statement from had very lively trade relations with the
Frazier Masonry Corp. of Camarillo, CA, the “UNLV tower,” which stretches Apuo-Versilian district.
which performed the stone installation. 55 feet above the roof on the build- In recent years, North Africa has
“Greenspun Hall follows the ongoing ing’s east side — 125 feet from the recorded constant growth in terms
sandstone theme and blends well with ground — and consists of a 57-foot- of imports of Italian stone materials,
the existing architecture on campus.” long, 11-foot-wide, steel-braced frame with an increase in turnover that is
T he Tu sc a ny C ol le c t ion de l iv- system. The university’s letters were almost totally accounted for by Tuscan
ered approximately 40 truckloads of carved with a laser jet into the sand- exports. The figures for Morocco and
red and beige sandstone to Frazier stone. In total, it took five months to Tunisia include an overall imports of
Masonry for the construction of the complete the stone installation. Italian materials in 2008 to the tune of
new building. The majority of the approximately 45 million Euros, yet the
pieces measure 18 x 36 inches, and CARRARAMARMOTEC figures for Italian exports of machinery
most had a thickness of 2 inches. STRENGTHENS ITS TIES and technology to African countries,
A distinguishing architectural ele- WITH NORTH AFRICA demonstrate how the production struc-
ment of Greenspun Hall’s design is CARRARA, ITALY — The promo- ture has strengthened and how in some
28JMSSW05074.indd
January 20101| Stone World 4/19/07 10:34:34 AM
026-032 News.indd 28 12/23/09 10:43:26 AM

granitosw01104.indd 1 12/10/09 8:49:12 AM
NEWS
countries this is also supported by con- hence have a tradition and experience
sumption figures. in the use of natural stone. This is
The most significant leg of the pro- where the interest that was shown on
motional tour was Casablanca where, all official occasions by the authorities
with the collaboration of the Italian and representatives from the economy
Institute for Foreign Trade, and in and trade associations to strengthen
the presence of the General Consul relations with Carrara, Italy, where our
N ic o l a L e n e r, C a r r a r a M a r m o t e c exhibition comes from.”
The promotional campaign for CarraraMarmotec
was presented to 30 operators who, The most concrete demonstration
2010, the 30th International Exhibition of Marble,
through their spokesperson Monsieur Technology and Design, recently extended its of the intention to improve the com-
Zafad, Chairman of the Association of program to involve a promotional tour in Morocco petitiveness of the Tunisian stone
and Tunisia.
Moroccan Marble Workers, announced industry through close relations with
their intention to be at next year’s exhi- CarraraMarmotec. the Italian industry was the official
bition with an important delegation. “These days were very useful to invitation to the Italian delegation to
Another very important port of call further strengthen cultural and trade take part in the opening of the 2nd
on the trip was Tunisia where, together relations,” stated the CarraraFiere Press International Show of Tunisian Stone
with the Ministry of Equipment, the Office. “Throughout the meetings we at the Centre des Foires in Tunisia,
Environment and Planning and in col- had — CarraraFiere’s General Manager, opened by the Ministry of Equipment,
laboration with the National Building Paris Mazzanti, emphasized — there the Environment and Planning, S.
Federation and the National Trade was a very clear interest from the Malloush, in the presence of the direc-
Union of Marble Workers, an agree- authorities and operators in the role tor of the Ministry’s quarry sector,
ment was drawn up to carry out a rich of the Apuan district and our exhibi- Madame Ben Soltane, the Chairman
program of promotional activities for tion. These are countries that began to of the National Building Federation,
marble as well as the organization of a industrialize and promote their nation- Brahim Naeli and the Chairman of
delegation of high-profile operators at al stone resources many years ago and the Marble Workers Union, Ben Saad.
026-032 News.indd 30 12/21/09 1:31:18 PM

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NEWS
BLANCO JOINS THE FORTÉ Forté umbrella are approximately 300 Mario Sardo of Fordham Marble of
BUYING GROUP luxury showrooms in North America. the Bronx, NY, with a Pinnacle Award
LU M BE R TON, N J — Bla nco, a According to Blanco, Forté Preferred of Mer it for out-
German innovator of quality engi- Vendors are leading manufacturers of sta nd ing use of
neered stainless decorative plumbing and hardware prod- stone. T he com-
steel since 1925, ucts sold in limited distribution venues. pany received
joined the Forté “For the consumer and the design the award for the
Buy i ng Group community, Blanco’s partnership with stonework inside
as a P refer red Forté marks another positive step for- a F i f t h Av e n u e
Vendor, which ward in the growth of the brand here apar tment build-
Blanco, a German
innovator of quality was effective as in the U.S.,” said Tim Maicher, Director ing in New York.
engineered stainless steel of November of Marketing for Blanco. Saba Vasanthan, S a r d o e x pl a i ne d
since 1925, joined the
Forté Buying Group as a
2009. This new Jeff Valles, Membership Director of Product Manger of t hat t he g reatest
CMS/Brembana (left)
Preferred Vendor, which membership will the Forté Group stated, “When a cus- challenge he faced
congratulates Mario
became effective as of enable inf lu- tomer visits a Forté showroom, they can was the prac ti-
Sardo of Fordham
November 2009.
e nt i a l d e a le r s find expert advice and help in selecting Marble for receiving cal nature of the
a Pinnacle Award of
to display a wider selection of Blanco from the vast selection of Blanco prod- Merit for outstanding material, which is
products in their showrooms, such as ucts that will match their style and use of stone. very fragile, along
the innovative new MicroEdge™ and functional needs.” with the complex-
Silgranit® II sinks. ity of the fabrication. Fordham Marble
Forté is a premier buying group in ADVANCED TECHNOLOGY did all the work on a Brembana CNC
the decorative plumbing and hard- RESULTS IN AWARD-WINNING machine, and the company is report-
ware industry, and attracts market PROJECT ed to be the first fabrication shop to
leaders from metropolitan areas through- BRONX, NY — The Marble Institute install a CNC machine in the U.S. for
out the U.S. and Canada. Under the of America (MIA) recently honored stoneworking.
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cosentinosw10094.indd 1 9/17/09 1:58:20 PM

Fabricators predict
improvement for 2010
After a very difficult 2009, U.S. stone fabricators are relatively upbeat
in their forecast for this year, and they are even more optimistic when looking at
the long term — according to this exclusive Stone World fabricator survey
by Michael Reis
FIGURE 1: FIGURE 2:
What do stone producers expect for the What do stone producers expect for the
stone market in 2010? stone market in the next five to 10 years?
Stay the same - 40% Stay the same - 11%
Decline - 6%
Grow - 45%
Decline - 15% Grow - 83%
F
or m a ny A mer ica n stone seen over the past few years. But for the section of fabr icators across t he U.S.,
fabricators, 2 009 w as t he m ost most part, fabricators feel that the worst including large and small firms as well
diff icult y ear ev er to r u n a is b ehind u s, a nd t hey a re r elatively as relatively new a nd well-established
busi ness. Si nce m a ny fabr icat ion optimistic for 2010 and beyond. These companies.
shops in the U.S. are relatively young are t he results of a su rvey conducted
in age (typically less than 20 years by the Market Research Department Predictions for 2010
old), business owners have never felt a at B NP M edia ( Stone W orld’s parent Looking a t t he com ing y ear, t he
recession that came close to what we’ve company), a nd i t po lled a c ross- vast m ajority of f abricators p olled
034-045 Purchasing.indd 34 12/21/09 1:32:27 PM

Onyx Boutique
of North America
PRIMESTONE INC.
33 Pippin Road, Unit #2, Concord, Ont. L4K 5P4, Canada
Tel: 905/669 2999 • Fax: 905/669 2115 • e-mail: info@primestone.ca • www.primestone.ca
PrimestoneSW0809.indd 1 7/8/09 9:47:06 AM

FIGURE 3:
In which areas are companies planning to invest in 2010?
marketing: 57%
60 equipment: 50%
50 truly felt that declines will not con-

personnel: 36% tinue. A tot al o f 45% said t he s tone
market will increase in 2010, and 40%
said it would stay the same. Only 15%
40 said t here w ould b e a d ecrease i n
stock: 28%
business this year.
showroom: 26%
The fab ricators ex pecting g rowth
for the year varied in how much they
30 believed b usiness w ould i ncrease,
fabricating although m ost ( 69%) s aid th at b usi-
facilities: 13% ness would grow by more than 6%, and
nearly one i n ei ght fabr icators (12%)
20 predicted growth of more than 20%.
warehousing: A number of reasons were offered
5% for t he opt imism i n 2 010, a nd m any
pointed to an improving economy. “An
10 upsurge i n r ecent bu siness g ives me
hope that the businesses that did sur-
vive the recession will continue to see
this upsurge — not t hat it’s over yet,
0 but so far we have survived,” stated one
fabricator. “The ones that didn’t make it
will lead to more business for those of
us who did.”
“People are starting to spend money
FIGURE 4: again,” reported a nother respondent.
Which types of equipment will be purchased in 2010? “I believe as the economy continues to
stabilize, we will continue to see this
Mean Dollar Amount spending t rend. Also, as t he housing
Type of Equipment to be Purchased
to be Spent market begins to expand again, this
will drive further consumer spending.”
hand tools: 60% $6,720.20
Fabricators a lso s aid t hat remodel-
material handling & ing work seems to be on the rise. As one
transportation equipment: 30.0%
$34,122.22 respondent pointed out, “Homeowners
have put off installing granite or doing
polishing machines: 17% $46,678.26 renovations, but now with an upswing
on incomes in the near future, we will
bridge saws: 17% $78,828.13 see an increase in these projects.” But
even while some fabricators were opti-
management software: 12% $7,776.47
mistic, ot hers fe ared t hat i ncreased
traffic a nd activity m ay not r esult i n
air and water treatment: 15% $20,795.45
actual business for a few m onths. “We
CNC stoneworking centers: 11% $187,578.95 expect a v ery slow st art to t he year,”
stated one fabr icator. “There are some
digital/electronic templating: 11% $16,055.56 projects going to architects now, but
they will be six months on the drawing
waterjet technology: 9% $183,181.82 board. Residential customers are st ill
slow to commit to contracts.”

FIGURE 5:
How much capital outlay is budgeted for 2010?
80
less than $250,000: 65%
70
Long-term optimism 60
The outlook of fabr icators over t he next f ive
to 10 years was even more positive. According to
the Stone World survey, more than four out of five 50
fabricators (83%) feel that the market for stone i n
the U.S. will grow over the next five to 10 years. $250,000 - $499,999: 21%
Another 11% felt t he m arket would remain t he
40
same, and only 6% were predicting a decline.
Following t he t rend ex pressed i n l ast year’s 30
survey, however, they were guarded in predicting $500,000 -
$1 million: 8%
a large increase in sales. Only 32% of fabricators
overall felt t hat g rowth would b e 11% or m ore 20 more than
over the next five to 10 years. $1 million: 6%
W he n a ske d abo ut t hei r l o ng-t er m
10
optimism, fabricators again pointed to t he even-
tual recovery of the market, along with increased
popularity and awareness of stone among home- 0
owners. “Eventually we will all decide t hat t he

FIGURE 6:
In which areas did you cut spending in 2009?
80 personnel: 72%
70
equipment: 54%
60 stock: 52%
50 marketing: 42% world w as not a ctually e nding, a nd

business as usual will resume,” stated
one survey respondent, while another
40 commented, “It is going to take a cou-
warehousing: 23% ple of years for t he m arket to cor rect
30 fabricating facilities: 22% itself, but when the industries realize it
showroom: 12% is up to them to help bring the economy
back, it will begin to take hold.”
did not cut
20 spending: 12% Some fabricators pointed to general
improvements in th e in dustry itself
other: 6% as r easons for l ong-term opt imism.
10 “Technology is still increasing daily,”
stated one survey participant. “Stone
applications in the building sector are
0 becoming more and more creative.”
Investments in 2010
FIGURE 7: After a year of cutting costs — 88%
How was business in 2009 compared to 2008? of fabricators polled said they decreased
spending in 2009, primarily in the area
Stayed the same - 13% of personnel — it appears that fabrica-
Increased - 19%
tors a re planning to i nvest back i nto
their operations this year. “Banks will
return to allow some credit for machin-
ery a nd ex pansion,” ex plained one
fabricator.
According to t he Stone World sur-
vey, 57% of fabr icators s aid t hey w ill
be investing in m arketing, and 5 0%
reported that they will invest in equip-
ment in the coming year.
In terms of equipment choices, hand
tools were once again mentioned by the
majority (60%) of fabricators, and they
expect to sp end a n average of ne arly
$7,000 in this area.
In terms of larger investments, the
percentage of fabricators planning to
purchase bi g t icket i tems i s p redict-
ably sm all, but st ill significant when
considering the amount of money they
expect to spend. More than one out of
10 fabricators (11%) said they will buy a
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FIGURE 8: FIGURE 9:
For those seeing an increase in business in 2009, For those seeing a decline in business in 2009, what
what was the percentage? was the percentage?
1% to 5%: 35%
6% to 10%: 28% Over 20%: 54%
35 60
11% to 20%: 10%
Over 20%: 28%
30
50
25
40
20
11% to 20%: 23%
30
15 6% to 10%: 16%
20
10 1% to 5%: 6%
5 10
0 0
FIGURE 10:
2009 Gross annual sales of respondents:
Less than $500,000: 30%
$500,000 to $999,999: 23%
30
$1 million to
25 $2.9 million: 29%
20 $3 million to
$4.9 million: 9%
15 Over $5 million
or more: 8%
10
to $190,000 in the process. A similar growing level o f automation for t his Reflecting t he continuing need for
total (9%) said they would be investing equipment, they are expecting to spend air a nd w ater t reatment i n fabr ica-
in waterjet technology, and they expect an average of nearly $80,000. The same tion shops, approximately one o ut of
to spend close to $185,000. percentage o f fabr icators ( 17%) s aid six shops s aid they will i nvest i n this
Nearly one o ut o f f ive fabr icators they would be purchasing a po lisher technology in 2010, expecting to spend
(17%) said they will buy a br idge saw this com ing year, ex pecting to sp end more than $20,000. Also in the area of
this com ing y ear, a nd r eflecting t he close to $50,000. improving t he overall shop e nviron-

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FIGURE 11: FIGURE 12:
Has increased competition from new fabricators For those who were impacted, how much do you
had a direct, negative impact on your business in think sales were affected?
2009?
1% to 5%: 25% 6% to 10%: 35%
Yes - 53%
No - 47% 11% to 20%: 24%
35
30
Over 20%: 16%
25
20
15
10
FIGURE 13:
What is the greatest challenge facing stone fabricators in today’s marketplace?
The radon/granite scare: 1%

Devaluation of the U.S.
dollar: 8%
Banking/credit
industry
failures: 25%
Decline in the housing

market: 39%
Increased competition
from low-end fabricators: 27%
ment, one out of three fabricators will in d igital tem plating te chnology i n ate — con sidering t he sm all si ze o f
invest in handling equipment, expect- 2010, sp ending a n a verage o f m ore the average fabrication shop — c apital
ing to spend close to $35,000. than $16,000 each; and 12% said they outlay a mong fabr icators looks to b e
New technology is also being pur- would b e p urchasing ma nagement improving i n 2009. A tot al of 3 4% of
chased for operations beyond the shop software this year, spending an aver- respondents said they are planning to
floor. A total of 11% of survey respon- age of nearly $8,000. outlay more than $250,000 in 2010. (Last
dents s aid t hey w ould b e i nvesting Although s till r elatively m oder- year, that total was 27.9%).

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FIGURE 14:
Size of companies responding:
40 1-5 employees: 38%
35 6-10 employees: 21%
30 11-25 employees: 24%
A difficult 2009
25 In addition to asking about the future,
more than 25
employees: 17% the Stone World survey asked fabricators
to compare the business levels for 2009
20 as compared to 2008. Responses to this
question showed just how difficult the
last 12 months have been, as 68% said
15 their business declined in 2009, another
13% said that business stayed the same,
and a surprising 19% actually said busi-
10 ness grew in 2009 (although typically
less than 10%).
For companies that saw a d ecrease
5 in business, the losses were significant.
A total of 23% of respondents reported
declines of 11 to 20%, and an additional
0 54% of fabr icators s aid t hat bu siness
was down by over 20% in 2009.
FIGURE 15: Overall, fabricators were relatively
Age of companies responding split b etween com panies r eporting
more than $1 million in annual sales
40 1-4 years: 20% (47%) a nd t hose r eporting le ss t han
$1 m illion ( 53%). Broken down f ur-
ther, 30 % s aid t hat s ales w ere le ss
35 5-9 years: 24% than $ 500,000; 23% reported sales of
$500,000 to $1 million; 29% reported
sales of $1 million to $2.9 million; 93%
30 10-19 years: 27% reported s ales o f $ 3 m illion t o $ 4.9
million; and 8% reported sales of over
$5 million.
25 Speaking on challenges facing fab-
20 or more ricators i n today’s m arketplace, more
years: 29% than half of the fabricators polled (53%)
20 said t hat i ncreased competition f rom
new stone fabr icators h ad a d irect,
negative impact on their business dur-
15 ing 2009. Moreover, those reporting an
impact reported high losses that they
felt were due to new competition: 35%
10 said t hey lost b etween 6 a nd 10 % o f
business; 24% said they lost 11 to 20%
of bu siness; a nd 1 6% s aid t hey l ost
more than 20% of their business.
5
Survey demographics
Consistent w ith Stone World fabri-
0 cator su rveys con ducted i n t he p ast,

FIGURE 16:
Does your shop fabricate both natural stone and quartz
surfacing?
Yes - 73%
No - 27%
participants in this most recent study were rela-

tively small in size. A total of 38% of respondents
had one to f ive e mployees; 2 1% h ad si x to 1 0
employees; 24% had 11 to 25 employees; and 17%
had more than 25 employees.
Looking at the experience of the fabricators
polled, the market survey drew responses from
industry veterans as well as companies that are
relatively new to t he t rade. A tot al of 29% s aid
they were in business for more than 20 years; 27%
have 10 to 19 years experience; 24% have five to
nine years of experience; and 20% have been in
business less than five years.
Also of note, most fabricators (73%) reported
that they are fabricating both natural stone a nd
quartz surfacing products. ❑

Fabricator
Case Study
Adapting for
continued success
By investing in the right equipment and expanding its
product lines, GMG Stone, Inc. of San Diego, CA, has found
ways to continue its advancement in the stone industry
by Alexis Fisher
By strategically investing in new machinery, Francois Hope, the owner of GMG Stone, Inc. in San Diego, CA, has
remained successful, even in a down economy. The company is currently expanding its product line and focusing on
custom work with the help of new technology, such as the Breton NC 350 CNC stoneworking center.
W
ith t he a id o f a dvanced custom work and has explored the years, gaining additional employees
technology, F rancois Hope, expansion of its product line. and m oving to bi gger fa cilities, t he
the owner of GMG Stone, Inc. Already f amiliar w ith th e s tone company now h as 30 e mployees a nd
in San Diego, CA, has flourished — even industry, Hope followed in his parents’ its facility contains a complete line of
in a down economy. To better position footsteps by starting his own company state-of-the-art machinery, which Hope
itself in the current market, the company in 1993, which i ncluded t wo employ- has strategically invested in since start-
has in recent times been focusing on ees and himself. Evolving through the ing the businesss.
046-052 GMG.indd 46 12/21/09 1:36:15 PM

amerisinkSPREADsw11091.indd 1 10/14/09 11:01:10 AM
Hope explained that the company
has in more recent times sought
machinery that will improve the
overall quality of its products.
“We went to Italy and met with
Breton,” he said. “We ended up
buying a [Contourbreton NC 350
computer numerically controlled
stoneworking center].”
Shop equipment
Five years ago, Hope ran two shifts,
producing 30 to 40 k itchens a day in a
facility that sits on 2.5 acres. As a mass
producer, t he com pany st arted w ith
machinery from Park Industries of St.
Cloud, MN. “We were the first client they
had in San Diego,” said Hope. “We went
to [the Coverings trade show in] Miami
and bought a saw.” Currently, GMG has
three Cougar bridgesaws from Park.
From th ere, H ope e xplained th e
company sought machinery that would
improve the overall quality of its prod-
ucts. “We went to I taly a nd met with
Breton,” he s aid. “We e nded up buy-
ing a [Contourbreton NC 350 computer
numerically controlled stoneworking
While in Italy, Hope also purchased an Intermac Master Stone CNC stoneworking
center. center], and an Intermac Master Stone
CNC [ stoneworking ce nter] to d o
vanities.”
Hope most recently added a Breton
NC 2 60 stonew orking ce nter to h is
shop. “We already knew it would help
with th e b igger p ieces in kitchens,”
he explained. “Since we had the other
Breton CNC, we were comfortable with
the purchase of the 260 for larger prod-
ucts and countertops.”
Additionally, G MG h as a Sp ider
FR 700 PC br idge saw from Breton, a
Marmo Meccanica polisher for edging
and a Comandulli Synthesis for bu ll-
nose work and large production jobs.
Stone i s a lso p rocessed on a w ater-
jet f rom F low I nternational Corp. of
Kent, WA, which Hope says gives the
Equipment in the shop also includes a waterjet from Flow International Corp. of Kent, company an edge. “We’re able to do a
WA, which Hope explained has been the heart of the company’s success. “We’re able
to do a lot of jobs other companies cannot do, for instance, intricate cuts, names, signs,
lot of jobs other companies cannot do,
working with medals, slab signs in stone and other specializing techniques,” he said. such as intricate cuts, names, signs,
046-052 GMG.indd 48 12/21/09 1:36:26 PM

Additionally, a Spider FR 700 PC
bridge saw from Breton for cutting
slabs is in place at the shop.
working with medals, slab signs in stone a nd

other specializing techniques,” he said.
Hope f urther ex plained t hat t he waterjet
will hop efully advance t he company’s work
with quartz, specifically CaesarStone quartz
surfacing. “We’ve made a commitment to work
with quartz,” he said. “You need to be a cer-
tified f abricator w ith th e ri ght e quipment,
design and skill. A company like CaesarStone
gives warranties.”
046-052 GMG.indd 49 12/21/09 1:37:04 PM

The company has recently made a commitment to work with quartz, specifically CaesarStone quartz surfacing,
which it proudly displays in the company’s showroom.
And for m ore i ntricate d etailed but a l ot h as to d o w ith t he worker,” Combating the market
work, GMG’s m ain supplier for to ol- said H ope, a dding t hat h is e mploy- At a time when the more attractive
ing is Hard Rock Tool of Anaheim, ees specialize in custom work and are solution for clients may be to go to the
CA. “We trust the quality they deliver. taught the “GMG way,” which means cheapest dealer, Hope explained t hat
Tools are the complement to the work, superior quality. his biggest obst acle i s educating c us-
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046-052 GMG.indd 50 12/22/09 11:44:16 AM

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Additionally, various exhibits
of natural stone products are
showcased in the showroom.
GMG is currently working on s ev-

eral remodels and high-end tract work,
along w ith v enturing i nto f urniture
lines. “We have been doing f urniture
for d esigners,” s aid Hope. “We h ave
been looking at new l ines with quartz
and CaesarStone where we are going to
be designing laptop vanities, counters
and more.” ❑
GMG Stone, Inc.

San Diego, CA
Type of work: custom work with

stone and quartz surfacing
Machinery: three Cougar bridge
saws from Park Industries of
St. Cloud, MN; a waterjet from
Flow International Corp. of
Kent, WA; an Intermac Master
Stone CNC stoneworking
center from Intermac of
Italy; a Contourbreton NC
In addition to high-end residential jobs, GMG Stone, Inc.’s work also includes 350 computer numerically
commercial projects. Black galaxy granite with an 8-inch bullnose is featured for this
controlled stoneworking
bar top.
center, a Contourbreton NC
260 stoneworking center and
tomers that a computerized machine to be in novative and creative, and at a Spider FR 700 PC bridge
will p roduce a b etter qu ality p rod- the same time explain to people that if saw— all from Breton S.p.A
uct. “A lot of p eople c an produce for you hire the least expensive, you’re not of Italy; a Marmo Meccanica
cheaper, but convincing that a cheaper going to be delivered quality.” backsplash polisher from
product is not the best job they’re going Hope is also looking to bring stone Marmo Meccanica of Italy; a
to get is a challenge,” he said. “We have into a g reen m indset. “We’re a lready Synthesis automated edger
to condition people that a good job will using a l ot o f t he products o ut t here from Comandulli Construzioni
always l ast l onger. T he key to stone that ar e alr eady cu t,” h e e xplained. Meccaniche Srl of Italy; and
and quartz is being able to lay out the “Instead of having to buy new materi- tools and accessories from Hard
product. Once you lay out and install als, we’re trying to reuse materials that Rock Tool of Anaheim, CA
it, how’s the product going to come out already ex ist, l ike lef tover or t hrow- Employees: 30
— the finishes, etc? It’s about being able away materials.”
046-052 GMG.indd 52 12/21/09 1:37:39 PM

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Fabricator
Case Study
Nevada fabricator
merges technology and
craftsmanship
Based in Carson City, NV, Perfection Connection
has steadily invested in new technology, while keeping
its ultimate focus on providing outstanding quality
by Michael Reis
Perfection Connection has been operating in Carson City, NV, since 2005, and it features a range of equipment,
including a CNC stoneworking center from Northwood Machine Corp. of Louisville, KY.
L
i k e m o st fabr ic ator s t he s e Connection. “We offer them 10 projects “We pretty much do 90% middle to
days, Perfection Connection i n to look at, and really, my clients are my upper end fabrication for the residential
Carson City, NV, is facing more best salespeople. I want them to see market,” Donaire explained. “Maybe
competition i n t he m arketplace t han why we cost more than a garage shop. 10% of what we do is commercial work,
ever before. To combat the presence of I want them to see the equipment. That but we mainly work on residential.
“discount fabricators” in the region, the won’t work over the phone.” We never got into the tract home busi-
company m akes a n ef fort to e ducate The company h as a v ast l ibrary of ness. We stuck with homeowners and
customers w hile a lso p romoting t he photos of its completed work — includ- builders.”
quality of its work. ing detail shots of the seams, edges and
“We’ve h ad ex cellent succe ss i n other areas of interest — and it strives Developing a shop
getting t he c lient i nto o ur shop a nd to show customers exactly what to look Donaire began in the business more
educati ng t hem f ully,” ex plai ned for when assessing the quality of fin- than 20 years ago, ultimately develop-
James Don aire, o wner o f P erfection ished stonework. ing and expanding his own shop. “After
054-060 PerfectionConnection.indd 54 12/21/09 1:38:28 PM

OgyuSW0509.indd 1 4/21/09 2:06:04 PM
According to Perfection Connection owner James
Donaire, the transition to CNC technology has been the
company’s biggest advance in fabrication over the past
five years.
Straight edging is completed with a Pro-Edge III unit

from Park Industries.
Slabs are cut to size using a Sierra bridge saw from

Park Industries of St. Cloud, MN.
I got out of high school in 1987, I got into 1997. We started with tilework and we
construction learning most of the phas- were subbing installs for a fabricator. A
es, and tilework was part of my duties,” year later, we decided to start fabricat-
he s aid. “ By 1995, I st arted w orking ing on our own. We ended up getting
with t he company f ull t ime a s a t ile- a facility a nd we bought a T rack-Star
setter. About a year later, I worked for 2000 saw from Leitch & Co. We worked
another company in Oakland, CA, and with that for a little while, and we were
I h ad t he oppor tunity to t ake it over. doing a lot of hand fabrication.”
That’s how Perfection Connection came A s t i m e w e nt o n, P e r f e c t io n
alive. We officially opened our doors in Connection a dded a ra nge o f e quip-

pearlsw01104.indd 1 12/22/09 9:46:42 AM
In all,
Perfection
Connection
has five
employees,
and most
of the shop
workers have
been on hand
for several
years.
Perfection Connection’s newest

investment is a Proliner 6.0 digital
templating system and ProCutter Plotter
from Prodim USA of Vero Beach, FL.
“We just purchased it,” Donaire said.
“The graphics are a lot better and you can
pretty much walk away from a job with
the whole kitchen templated.”
The majority of the shop’s work is

furnished with 4-cm laminated edges.
ment. “ In 2 000, w e a dded a P ark

Industries Pro -Edge, a nd it was r un-
ning so fast that our saw couldn’t keep
up,” Donaire said. “So within six to nine
months, we broke down and bought a
Park Industries Sierra bridge saw.”
A few y e a r s l ater, P er fe c t ion
Connection opened a second facility
in Nevada, with t he i ntention of run-
ning multiple locations. “I grew up in
South Lake Tahoe, NV, and we moved
to Carson City in 2005,” he s aid. “The
plan was to work two facilities. A year
into it, I decided that it was too difficult
to run two facilities and get the quality
we wanted. So I sold the Oakland facil-
ity, including the Pro-Edge, the Sierra
and a E CS-Eich water t reatment u nit
from Pyramid Supply.”
The facility in Carson City is cur-
rently equipped with a Park Pro-Edge
III automated e dging m achine a nd a

chemcoresw06091.indd 1 5/14/09 10:42:58 AM

Perfection Connection typically
fabricates and installs three to
five kitchens per week.
Park Sierra bridge saw, both of which

are f rom Park I ndustries. It a lso h as
an ECS-Eich water t reatment system,
which was purchased f rom P yramid
Supply, a nd a com pr e s s or f rom
Ingersoll-Rand.
I n l ate 2 006, t he com pa-
ny a dde d a C N C s t o n e w o rk i n g
center from Northwood Machine Corp.
of Louisville, KY, which marked a new
era o f a utomation for t he com pany.
“I never t hought we ne eded a CN C,”
Donaire s aid. “We w ere d oing 4 -cm
edges, and we laminate pretty much
everything, but we finally decided to
buy a Northwood CNC in 2006.”
Donaire ex plained t hat le arning
the technology was a r elatively quick
process. “We d id t he i n-house t rain-
ing at Northwood, and we didn’t have
The company processes a range of stone materials, and it fabricates for a variety of
computer experience at all,” he said.
design styles.
“The f irst few da ys of learning was a
struggle, bu t t hen i t a ll c licked. T he
screen really guides you through it. It
was a tough learning curve in the very
beginning, but part of it is that you’re
really timid at first and maybe overly
careful. It probably took us two or three
months, and now we are running it day
in and day out. The thing that I love is
that we haven’t even explored every-
thing we can do with it yet. Sooner or
later we will, as we progress.”
According to Donaire, the transition
to CNC technology has been the com-
pany’s biggest advance i n fabr ication
over the past five years. “That invest-
ment has been the biggest change hands
down,” he s aid. “Anyone who t hinks
they c an o ut-operate [a CN C shop ]
without CNC is fooling themselves.”
In ter ms o f to oling, t he com pany
uses Terminator to ols for t he CN C, Multi-level granite countertops are another company specialty.

In addition to kitchen countertops, Perfection
Connection processes stone for applications such
as detailed vanities and slab showers.
along w ith T erminator s aw b lades After digital templating is completed, the We had a big market change, but there
and m ulti-purpose g rinder b lades resulting DXF file is read by CAD and weren’t so many people in it back then.
from Continental Diamond Products, then transferred to the plotter, which Now we’re seeing this huge slowdown
Inc. “We also use DeFusco I ndustrial produces a physical template of the job. with the economy, but there are double
Supply and Phoenix Diamond Tools,” or triple the fabricators out there now.
Donaire said. A changing marketplace That’s the major challenge: How do we
Perfection C onnection’s n ewest Speaking o n o bstacles in t oday’s get past the mediocre shops?”
investment is a Proliner 6.0 digital tem- industry, Donaire said t hat i ncreased Although th e c ompany h as s een
plating syste m f rom Pro dim U SA o f competition has made a difficult econ- some positive signs lately, Donaire i s
Vero Beach, FL. “We just purchased it,” omy even tougher. “I think the biggest cautious about his future outlook. “We
Donaire said. “T he g raphics a re a l ot challenge for u s i s t he s ame one t hat do b etween t hree a nd f ive k itchens
better and you can pretty much walk every fabricator is going through,” he per week, a lthough it h as b een more
away from a job with the whole kitchen said. “When I was in the Bay Area fab- at times,” he said. “I have seen some
templated. It has very powerful editing ricating, we h ad t he Dot-Com c rash, good signs, but I am not banking on it.
capabilities. Since utilizing th at, our which k illed the Silicon Valley’s net It doesn’t mean the economy is turning
little quirks have lessened.” worth, a nd e veryone s urvived t hat. around as much as that I signed some
The com pany a lso i nvested i n a I t hink t he reason for t hat i s because good contracts.”
Procutter Plotter, also from Prodim USA. we didn’t have so much competition. Perfection Connection’s market area

Outdoor barbecue settings are another market for the company.
spans a broad area that goes well beyond trick, that’s one thing, but we have to hoping for t he best,” he s aid. “I think
the S outh Lake Tahoe region. “We do get rid of the bad habits.” we will see some normality. The prob-
60% of our work i n t he Bay A rea a nd Looking to the future, Donaire said lem is the economy, but the bigger issue
40% in South Lake Tahoe. We are will- he expects a slow rebound in the mar- is that there are three times more fabri-
ing to travel, and we work in a 250-mile ket, bu t c hallenges r emain. “We a re cators out there than the last crisis.” ❑
radius of our shop. That’s a p roduct of
the market. You cannot be complacent.” Perfection Connection
In all, Perfection Connection has five Carson City, NV
employees, including one bookkeeper.
“My m ain g uy h as b een her e for si x Type of work: Middle to upper-end fabrication for the residential market
years, and he ba sically runs my shop,” Machinery: CNC stoneworking center from Northwood Machine Corp. of
Donaire said. “He knows every aspect of Louisville, KY, Pro-Edge III automated edging machine and Sierra bridge
it, except for programming the CNC.” saw, both of which are from Park Industries of St. Cloud, MN; water
The c ompany has b een f ortunate treatment system from ECS-Eich of Germany, purchased from Pyramid
to retain employees si nce opening i n Supply of Barre, VT; air compressor from Ingersoll-Rand; Proliner digital
Carson City. “I haven’t had to hire new templating system and ProCutter plotter from Prodim USA of Vero Beach,
employees much,” Donaire said. “The FL; Terminator CNC tooling and Terminator saw blades and multi-
guys that I have here have been with purpose grinder blades from Continental Diamond Products, Inc. of San
me through thick and thin. We had two Carlos, CA; tooling and accessories from DeFusco Industrial Supply of
acquisitions f rom ot her shops. W hen Tempe, AZ, and Phoenix Diamond Tools of Mesa, AZ
you br ing s omeone i n f rom a nother Number of Employees: 5
shop, it can be tough to get them out of Production Rate: three to five kitchens per week
bad habits. If they can show us a co ol

Defining a flagship
building in stone
The Bayside Tower, a residential waterside community in San Diego, CA,
stands as a signature building in the area — with a sleek stone
exterior of limestone from India and black granite from Minnesota
by Jennifer Adams
The Bayside Tower in downtown San Diego, CA, features an exterior facade of Sunflower limestone —
quarried in India and supplied by Southland Stone USA, Inc. of North Hollywood, CA — and accented by
Mesabi Black granite from Cold Spring Granite Co. of Cold Spring, MN.
A
mix of l imestone a nd g ranite of being a f lagship building among a is a branch of the Municipality of San
creates a si gnature look for a series of revitalization projects led by Diego, CA, set a m andate to revitalize
36-story r esidential h igh-rise Bosa Development. the area. Bosa Development, which has
in the heart of San Diego’s downtown According to H ossein A manat o f developed many buildings in the San
district. T he B ayside Tower, as i t is Amanat Architect, the area where the Diego a rea, decided t hat t he Bayside
called, w as d esig ned b y A ma nat tower was bu ilt h ad sto od vacant for Tower would symbolize luxury living,
A r c h it e c t o f V a ncouve r, B r it i s h many years. As a result, the Center City and a n exte nsive exter ior p alette o f
Columbia, Canada — with the intention Development C orp. ( CCDC), w hich stone would set it apart from the sur-
062-065 Bayside.indd 62 12/21/09 1:42:51 PM

gmmsw05094.indd 1 4/20/09 2:43:48 PM
A total of 15,000 square feet of
limestone was employed for the
project. All of the stone pieces were
mechanically secured to the building
with anchors that have stainless steel
tips by an installation team from
American Marble of Vista, CA.
of 15,000 square feet of Sunflower

limestone — qu arried i n I ndia a nd
supplied by Southland Stone USA, Inc.
of North Hollywood, CA — and 5,110
square feet of Mesabi Black — quar-
ried in Babbitt, MN, by Cold Spring
Granite Co . of Cold S pring, M N —
was employed for the design.
Contrasting colors and textures were
a key component of the exterior design,
explained A manat. “W e d ecided to
use two types of stone,” he s aid. “The
Mesabi Black has a very rough texture
that contrasts nicely with the light-col-
ored limestone.”
Additionally, two types of finishes
— bushhammered and honed — were
applied to t he l imestone pieces. “T he
honed finish provided some highlight,”
said the architect. “If you come close to
the building, you notice further articu-
lation and detail.”
T h e e x t e r i o r s t o n e wo rk w a s
installed by American Marble of Vista,
CA, which sp ecializes i n si ngle-fam-
ily a nd r esidential h igh-rises a s well
as com mercial work. “We d id a ll t he
installation, w hich to ok abo ut si x to
eight months to complete,” said Bill
Kammerer, company president, adding
that the install crew was comprised of
approximately 20 workers.
According to K ammerer, no m ock-
ups of t he stonework were ne cessary
Contrasting colors and textures were a large part of the exterior design, explained prior to i nstallation. “ It w as t ypical
architect Hossein Amanat of Amanat Architect in Vancouver, British Columbia. “We sample submittals,” he said. The stone
decided to use two types of stone,” he said. “The Mesabi Black has a very rough
pieces were mechanically sec ured to
texture that contrasts nicely with the light-colored limestone.”
the b uilding w ith an chors m ade o f
stainless steel.
rounding architecture. to be quite significant. The CCDC [also] All o f t he a nchoring c alculations
“The developer wanted this building wanted it to be a very high-quality were p erformed b y CD C i n T exas.
to be a flagship,” said Amanat. “They building.” “They were extremely instrumental in
wanted the best amenities like swim- As a r esult, it was decided to u se this project,” said Kammerer.
ming po ols, sp as, f itness ro oms a nd a significant amount of stone for t he Overall, th ose in volved w ith th e
media rooms. They wanted the exterior building’s exter ior fa cade. A tot al project deem it a success. As a residen-
062-065 Bayside.indd 64 12/21/09 1:43:03 PM

tial waterside com munity with a c hic
stone exterior, the Bayside Tower accom-
plished t he goal of being a l andmark
structure in downtown San Diego. ❑
Bayside Tower
San Diego, CA
Developer: Bosa Development

Architect: Amanat Architect,
Vancouver, British Columbia,
Canada
Stone Suppliers: Southland Stone
USA, Inc., North Hollywood,
CA (Sunflower limestone); Cold
Spring Granite Co., Cold Spring,
MN (Mesabi Black granite)
Stone Installer: American Marble,
Vista, CA Additionally, two types of finishes — bushhammered and honed — were applied to
Anchoring Calculations: CDC, Texas the limestone pieces. “The honed finish provided some highlight,” said the architect.
“If you come close to the building, you notice further articulation and detail.”
anversw10094.indd 1
9/1/09 3:37:18 PM
062-065 Bayside.indd 65 12/21/09 1:55:26 PM

Exploring Liguria’s
stone heritage
In a unique promotional event, the Italian Trade Commission hosted
an international delegation of architects on a tour of the Liguria region’s stone
industry, including a look at its architectural history and current stone production
by Michael Reis
A delegation of international architects recently toured Liguria’s stoneworking areas — including a number
of quarry sites — as part of a trip arranged by the Italian Trade Commission.
A
lthough t he L iguria r egion o f Italian Trade Commission showcased material is quarried for architectural
Italy i s not a s stor ied a s t he Liguria’s stone i ndustry to a d elegation applications as well as billiard tables
historic sto neworking c enters of international a rchitects, in cluding and blackboards. (I n fa ct, t he word
of Verona and Carrara, the area is home professiona ls f rom t he U .S., t he “blackboard” i n Italian is Lavagna,
to a w ide variety of stone a rchitecture Netherlands, France, Brazil and the U.K. while t he word for s late i s Ardesia.)
as well as a number of innovative stone The p rogram i ncluded to urs o f Architects also had the opportunity
producers. T his p ast N ovember, t he the s late d istrict of L avagna, where to v isit t wo d ifferent qu arries for
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The architects began with a meeting at the
Genoa Urban Lab, an initiative of the city
that involves design and urban planning
professionals from Italy and abroad. The
goal of the Urban Lab is to improve the
city’s overall infrastructure.
Also in Genoa, an
introduction to Liguria’s
The focus was to
stone resources could be
design “everyday”
found at the “BI” product
products in stone,
exhibition — held in the
such as furnishings
city’s famed Palazzo Ducale.
and other household
This event, which was
items, such as these
organized by noted architect
bookends that were
Francesco Lucchese, was
made using Rosso
a collaboration of stone
Levanto marble and
suppliers and designers
Plexiglas — designed
to create new uses for the
by Donato D’Urbino
region’s slate and marble
and Paolo Lomazzi
products.
and processed by
Levante Marmi srl.
Among the slate products

on hand, designer Francesca
Macchi conceived decorative
saucers, which were processed
by Cueno Angiolino & C.
Rosso L evanto a nd Verde L evanto involves design a nd u rban planning the r est of Italy a nd Europe t hrough
marble, a long w ith a n u ltra-modern professionals from Italy and abroad. improved railways.
tile-processing plant. They also stud- The g oal o f t he U rban L ab i s to It is expected that as Genoa’s revi-
ied the historic stone a rchitecture of improve t he c ity’s overall i nfrastruc- talization p rogresses, n atural stone
the Liguria region. ture with improvements that respect will play a role in the areas of new con-
The program began in Genoa, where Genoa’s d ifferent en vironments o f struction, such as mixed-use high-rise
efforts are underway to upgrade many the nei ghboring s ea a nd m ountains. projects. Stone restoration will also be
areas w ithin t he c ity. T he a rchitects This includes urban renewal of spaces critical as the city’s palazzos — many of
began w ith a me eting a t t he G enoa that are inland from the port as well which are in disrepair — are upgraded
Urban Lab, an initiative of the city that as i mproving G enoa’s con nection to for modern-day functions.
066-083 Liguria.indd 68 12/21/09 1:59:19 PM

Combining slate with White Carrara
and Verde Levanto marble, this
design by Federica Fasola was cut on a
waterjet by Cueno Angiolino & C.
This bowl was designed with a floral motive by Luca

Scacchetti and is made from Rosso Levanto marble from
Ditta Esmar srl. Different surface finishes on the bowl’s
interior and exterior add to its distinctive look.
One of the most intricate

projects was an ornate lamp
designed by Des Setsu and
Shinobu Ito and fabricated
by Technotiles S.p.A., a
large-scale stone producer Following the tour of
in the Liguria region. The the exhibition, stone
stone pieces for the lamp, industry leaders from
which was made from the region gave a
White Carrara marble, was joint press conference
formed using a waterjet. with members of
the Italian Trade
Commission, and the
architects also had a
chance to meet with
the various suppliers
who were involved in
the project.
Also in Genoa, an introduction materials suc h a s R osso L evanto a nd and m arble p rovides l ight d iffusion,
to L iguria’s stone r esources co uld b e White Carrara marble — as well as slate and Technotiles had to devise an adhe-
found at the “BI” product exhibition — — being utilized for objects such as mod- sive formula that would work effectively
held in the city’s famed Palazzo Ducale. ern lamps, bookends, serving trays and with both materials.
This ev ent, w hich w as orga nized b y other decorative items. One of the most Following the tour of the exhibition,
noted a rchitect F rancesco L ucchese, intricate projects was a n or nate l amp stone industry leaders from the region
was a co llaboration of stone su ppliers designed by Des Setsu and Shinobu Ito gave a joint press conference with mem-
and designers to create new uses for the and fabricated by Technotiles S.p.A., a bers of the Italian Trade Commission,
region’s slate and marble products. The large-scale stone producer in the Liguria and the architects also had a chance to
focus was to d esign “everyday” prod- region. T he stone p ieces for t he lamp, meet w ith t he various suppliers who
ucts in stone, such as furnishings and which was m ade f rom W hite Ca rrara were involved in the project.
other household items. marble, was for med u sing a w aterjet. T he fo l low i ng a r t icles o ffer a
The r esulting ex hibition i ncluded Moreover, a com bination o f P lexiglas detailed look at the program.
066-083 Liguria.indd 69 12/21/09 1:59:33 PM

The palazzos and churches of Liguria
Centered in Genoa and radiating out to the countryside, the Liguria region features a notable range of classic architecture,
and much of it includes natural stone as a signature element. As part of their education on Liguria’s stone materials, the
architects were given a tour of many palazzos and churches within Genoa as well as outside the city.
Showcasing the history of Liguria’s stone

materials, architects were given a tour of
many palazzos and churches within Genoa
as well as outside the city.
The tour opened up at the Palazzo Ducale (Palace of the Doges) in

Genoa, which features a range of materials from the Liguria region,
including Rosso Levano and Rosso Verde marble. Stone materials were
also brought in from the Tuscany region as well as Siena.
The columns at Palazzo Ducale’s main entrance

are comprised of White Carrara marble.
Palazzo Ducale political conferences. It also hosts a range of cultural initiatives for
The tour opened up at the Palazzo Ducale (Palace of the Doges) in the people of Genoa.
Genoa, the first parts of which were built between 1251 and 1275.
The building is among the first examples of neoclassical work San Lorenzo Cathedral
in Italy, and it features a range of materials from the Liguria region, Originally founded in the fifth or sixth century AD, the building that
including Rosso Levano and Rosso Verde marble. Stone materials now houses the San Lorenzo Cathedral in Genoa was started in 1307
were also brought in from the Tuscany region as well as Siena. Mean- and continued in various forms until the end of the 17th century. It was
while, the columns at the building’s main entrance and courtyard are designed in a French Gothic style, and it features alternating horizon-
comprised of White Carrara marble. Much of the stone used for the tal bands of dark and light stonework — an element that is common
building was transported to Genoa via the sea. among many notable structures in the Liguria region.
The palace was ultimately completed in 1539, and it was most Again, local stone was used for much of the design, and some of
recently restored over the course of an 11-year-long project that con- the most intricate stonework can be found at the entryways. Ornate
cluded in 1992, which marked the 500-year anniversary of city native elements such as carved columns and detailing are combined with
Christopher Columbus’ voyage to America. inlaid stone mosaics across much of the entrance, giving the cathe-
The building is now a government-owned facility and the site of dral a majestic presence whether viewed close up or from a distance.
066-083 Liguria.indd 70 12/21/09 1:59:53 PM

Originally founded Local stone was
in the fifth or sixth used for much
century AD, the of the design of
building that now the San Lorenzo
houses the San Cathedral, and
Lorenzo Cathedral some of the
in Genoa was most intricate
started in 1307, stonework can
and it features be found at
alternating hori- the entryways.
zontal bands of Ornate elements
dark and light such as carved
stonework — an columns and
element that is detailing are
common among combined with
many notable inlaid stone
structures in the mosaics across
Liguria region. much of the
entrance.
Located in
Cognoro — part of
the Lavagna slate
district about 40
minutes outside
of Genoa — the
Basilica dei Fieschi
dates to the middle
of the 13th century.
While the exterior
architecture is simi-
lar to that of many
churches and cathe-
drals in Genoa,
it features slate
as a predominant
building element —
inside and out. The
stone was taken
Slate flooring was
from nearby Monte
used throughout
San Giacomo and
the interior of
the Fontanabuona
the Basilica dei
Valley.
Fieschi.
The cathedral is considered to be one of the top attractions in the light and dark horizontal bands as well as a prominent rose win-
city of Genoa, and the adjacent piazza is a popular gathering space dow frame above the entrance. Unlike its counterparts in Genoa,
for local residents. however, the Basilica dei Fieschi features slate as a predominant
building element — inside and out. The stone was taken from near-
Basilica dei Fieschi by Monte San Giacomo and the Fontanabuona Valley, which has
About 40 minutes outside of the city of Genoa lies the Lavagna slate evidence of 200 ancient quarry sites.
district, and while much of the region is rural in nature, classic styles The exterior also utilizes White Carrara marble, which was used for
of architecture can still be found — particularly among its churches. cladding as well as some of the columns.
One example of this is the Basilica di San Salvatore dei Fieschi — The Basilica dei Fieschi remains a centerpiece of the region’s
more commonly known simply as the Basilica dei Fieschi — located in culture, and its courtyard is the site of an annual neo-medieval event
the city of Cognorno. known as the “Torta dei Fieschi,” which takes place every August 14.
The original basilica goes back to the “Fieschi” village’s founda- The celebration is a recreation of the festivities that surrounded the
tion in the middle of the 13th century, although reconstructions wedding of Count Opizo Fieschi, older brother of Sinibaldo Fieschi,
continued for several centuries. The exterior architecture mirrors who would become Pope Innocent IV and initiate the building of the
that of many churches and cathedrals in Genoa, with alternating basilica in 1245.
066-083 Liguria.indd 71 12/21/09 2:00:07 PM

Processing slate since 1925
The Lavagna slate region features a range of producers — Given the level of precision needed for producing billiard slate,
including long-tenured craftsmen as well as plants equipped with the slabs processed at Ardesia Biggio have an optimal level of qual-
the most modern technology. Among the first exporters of Italian ity. But in addition to having well-calibrated machinery, the company
slate on a broad scale, Ardesia Biggio srl has been in operation relies on experienced workers to split the blocks into slabs along
since 1925. the natural cleave of the material. It generally takes between five
The company has a long tradition of slate extraction and finish- and 15 minutes to split a slab from the block, and the first split is
ing, and it remains a specialist in creating slate for a range of billiard always at the center.
tables. It also has distinguished itself as a producer of slate slabs in a After splitting the stone by hand, slabs have a natural-cleft fin-
range of surface finishes. ish. If desired, honing is generally done by hand using radial arm
Like most slate producers in the Lavagna region, Ardesia Biggio’s polishers. The company also has automated calibrating machinery
quarries are located underground, and one site is located adjacent to from Bisso of Italy.
its main processing plant. The coloration of the company’s slate tends Before shipping, slabs are packaged in plastic and wooden frames
towards pure black, with a slight hint of gray, and the goal is to pro- as needed. In addition to slab production, Ardesia operates a second
cess slate that is as consistent as possible. factory for slate roofing, paving and architectural elements.
Ardesia Biggio srl has been processing

slate since 1925, and its finished products
include building materials as well as slate
for billiard tables.
Ardesia Biggio’s quarries are located underground, typical of the Lavagna

slate region, and one site is located adjacent to its main processing plant.
The coloration of the company’s slate tends towards pure black, with a slight
Experienced workers split the blocks into slabs along the natural hint of gray, and the goal is to process slate that is as consistent as possible.
cleave of the material.
066-083 Liguria.indd 72 12/21/09 2:00:31 PM

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An innovator in slate production
Located in the Fontanabuona Valley, Ardesia Mangini Angela & tiles by hand by experienced stoneworkers, who must find the natural
Donatella snc produces first-quality Italian slate, and it reports that it seam of the stone by eye before splitting.
has been exploiting its own quarries for generations. It processes a The plant also has an automated processing line from Sasso Mec-
broad range of products, including slabs, paving, cladding, counter- canica of Italy for slabs and other large pieces.
tops, architectural pieces, roofing and other elements. Lately, it has The company processes approximately 32,000 square feet of mate-
also been developing some new finishes and textures, such as “Black rial per month, about half of which is exported.
Gold,” which includes gold leaf as part of the finished product; and Ardesia Mangini has supplied finished slate products for a range
“Black Crocodile,” which has a uniquely detailed surface that resem- of notable architectural projects around the world, including the Bar-
bles the skin of a crocodile. vikha Hotel & Spa in Moscow, Russia; a new showroom for Mobles
Slate is extracted from an underground mine, and during tile pro- Bellmunt S.L. in Barcelona, Spain; a new administrative complex for
cessing, the blocks are first cut into cubes and small, squared blocks Dexia Bank in Luxembourg, and a new showroom for the Yacht Fair in
on a Bisso bridge saw. From there, the squared blocks are split into Genoa, among others.
Ardesia Mangini Angela & Donatella snc pro-

cesses slate into a range of finished products,
including slabs, paving, cladding, countertops,
architectural pieces, roofing and other elements.
During tile process-

ing, the blocks are
first cut into cubes
and small, squared
blocks on a Bisso
bridge saw.
The squared blocks are split into tiles by hand by experienced stoneworkers,
who must find the natural seam of the stone by eye before splitting.
Lately, Ardesia Mangini has also been developing some new fin-
ishes and textures, such as “Black Gold,” which includes gold leaf
as part of the finished product; and “Black Crocodile,” which has a
uniquely detailed surface that resembles the skin of a crocodile.
066-083 Liguria.indd 74 12/21/09 2:00:52 PM

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Working slate with advanced technology
Ardesia Cueno Angiolino & C. made a name for itself in the slate Meanwhile, tiles are produced on an automated line from Socomac.
sector for being one of the first companies to use modern equipment Some of Ardesia Cueno’s most impressive equipment is used
for slate extraction and processing. The strategy to be on the cutting for custom architectural products in slate and other stone materi-
edge of technology has stayed with the company over the years, and it als. An Omag Mill 98 CNC stoneworking center offers automated
utilizes a broad range of advanced machinery from Italy in its operation. processing for elements such as kitchen countertops, inlaid
The company has been in the marketplace for more than 40 years, tables, vanity tops, fireplaces and architectural carving. Addi-
and its current factory, which is situated inland from Lavagna is more tionally, a waterjet is used for intricate cutting of slate and other
than 85,000 square feet in size. materials, and it has produced inlaid medallions combining a vari-
When processing slabs, the company has automated honing lines ety of stones. Automated edge processing is completed using an
from Terzago and Breton, and it also has an automated sandblasting Omega 60 edger from Comandulli, which can process materials
machine to offer a variety of finishes. ranging from 20 to 60 mm thick.
Ardesia Cueno Angiolino & C. was one of the first compa-

nies in the slate sector to use modern equipment for slate
extraction and processing. The company has been in the
marketplace for more than 40 years, and its current factory
is more than 85,000 square feet in size.
Among the modern machinery

in place, an Omag Mill 98 CNC
stoneworking center offers auto-
mated processing for elements
such as kitchen countertops,
inlaid tables, vanity tops, fireplac-
es and architectural carving.
Ardesia Cuenoa invested in a

waterjet for intricate cutting of
slate and other materials, and it
has produced inlaid medallions
combining a variety of stones.
066-083 Liguria.indd 76 12/22/09 11:54:23 AM

Automated edge processing is completed using an
Omega 60 edger from Comandulli, which can pro-
cess materials ranging from 20 to 60 mm thick.
Slate from Ardesia Cuenoa has been used for a

variety of residential and commercial applications.
The company’s slate can be used for both interior

and exterior applications.
066-083 Liguria.indd 77 12/22/09 2:36:52 PM

Operating an historic quarry site
Approaching Ditta Esmar srl’s current site for Rosso Levano marble also exported to places like the U.S. and Saudi Arabia.”
in Bonassola (La Spezia Province), there is evidence of several A diamond wire saw from Pellegrini is a key piece of equipment
quarries that were established during the Roman Period. And the during stone extraction, and blocks are completely squared. Heavy
company’s owners proudly point out these areas as evidence of the equipment such as a Caterpillar 215 backhoe is also used to clear
material’s importance over the years. waste and maneuver materials. Meanwhile, blocks are lifted from the
“It is one of the traditional stones of Italy, and it was a material quarry using a derrick crane.
for kings,” explained Catarina Rezzano of Ditta Esmar, who oper- “This is not a high-production quarry,” Rezzano said. “It is a craft to
ates the company along with her husband. Vitorio. “It is now a find the right material. You cannot really test, because even when you
family passion for us.” do core drilling and find some nice material, it may just be a ‘bubble’ and
The quarry site is located high atop the hills overlooking the Ligu- not a large section. You need experience and luck to find a good area of
rian Sea, and while it also contains Rosso Verde marble, this material quarrying. Fortunately, we are in a nice section of the quarry right now.”
is only quarried on request. “Rosso Levanto is the prized material,” As quarrying operations progress, the land that was exploited is
explained Catarina Rezzano. “It is considered to be a decorative refilled, and the company has filled in up to 45 feet of bed material at
stone, used for columns, statues, door frames and other details. It was a time. Additionally, waste stone is transported from the quarry to help
used this way for the Tate Gallery in the U.K. [for example], and it is fortify seawalls in the area.
A diamond wire saw from Pellegrini is

a key piece of equipment during stone
extraction, and blocks are completely
squared.
Ditta Esmar srl’s quarry

for Rosso Levanto marble
lies high atop the hills
of Bonassola, near the
Ligurian Sea, and there
are a number of ancient
quarry sites in the area.
The quarry utilizes a

Caterpillar 215 backhoe to A derrick crane is used to lift blocks
clear waste and maneuver from deep within the quarry.
materials.
066-083 Liguria.indd 78 12/21/09 2:01:57 PM

continentalsw01094.indd 1 12/22/09 1:12:16 PM
Seeking pure Rosso Levanto
At Levante Marmi srl’s site for Rosso Levanto marble in Deiva In extracting the material, the chainsaw is first used to make a
Marina (La Spezia Province), the company is committed to find- horizontal cut at the bottom of the quarry face, and then larger cuts
ing the purest material possible. Its current location in the quarry are made using a diamond wire saw. After the quality of the block is
is yielding blocks with a consistent red color, and it can continue confirmed, all sides are squared with the diamond wire saw. Pneumatic
quarrying 130 feet deeper from its present position — giving drills are also part of the process, as they are used for splitting and for
Levante Marmi confidence that it will be extracting high-quality creating pilot holes for the diamond wire.
material well into the future. Several large-scale pieces of machinery are also at work in the
The company extracts blocks that can produce large slabs, and quarry, including a backhoe for clearing waste material and a front
it is able to quarry large quantities of marble. The stone is primarily loader for removing blocks from the quarry.
used for interior work, and Levante Marmi’s products have also been Waste stone is used for a variety of applications, including “river-
used for decorative items such as columns. Its material is also being washed” stones for landscape designs. It also maintains a retail
used in a 1-cm format for the interiors of luxury yachts. operation with small stone handicrafts.
Levante Marmi srl’s site for Rosso Levanto marble is yield-

ing blocks with a consistent red color, and it can continue
quarrying 130 feet deeper from its present position.
In extracting the material, the chainsaw is first used to make a

horizontal cut at the bottom of the quarry face, and then larger
cuts are made using a diamond wire saw.
Large-scale pieces of machinery in the quarry

include a backhoe for clearing waste material.
After the quality of the block is confirmed, all sides

are squared with the diamond wire saw.
066-083 Liguria.indd 80 12/21/09 2:02:24 PM

Stone Industry Education
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From the classroom... to the shop... to the quarry!

We provide the highest quality educational programming
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miasw01104.indd 1 12/18/09 2:37:50 PM

Making a science of stone production
The tile production plant at Technotiles S.p.A. of Vezzano
Ligure (La Spezia Province) features an optimal level of
automation, and it is equipped with technology that allows
an unprecedented level of quality control.
The marble tile production is marketed under the “Luce di Carrara”

brand, and it is entirely comprised of White Carrara marble varieties,
which are quarried near the factory.
“Stone tiles take longer to realize their true color than ceramic tiles, due
to the fact that there is so much water used in the production,” explained
company founder Dante Venturini, adding that this was the motivation to
invest in a large-scale drying line that completely dries each tile so its color
can be properly classified directly on the production line.
After the tiles within various categories

are dried, they move along the line to the
“Flawmaster,” an automatic inspection system
that classifies tiles according to their quality,
tonality and shade. The Flawmaster works
with a wide set of algorithms to identify all
types of mechanical and decoration defects.
The tile production plant at Technotiles S.p.A. of Vezzano Ligure Venturini explained that the factory — and the brand — were built
(La Spezia Province) is immediately striking for its level of automa- on the principles of standardization, logistics and consistency.
tion and efficiency. But upon closer inspection, the facility houses a “Stone tiles take longer to realize their true color than ceramic
range of equipment not typically found in a stone production plant, tiles, due to the fact that there is so much water used in the pro-
such as an automatic unit to electronically classify finished tiles duction,” he explained, adding that this was the motivation to
based on algorithms. invest in a large-scale drying line that completely dries each tile so
A division of Technostone, the company was originally estab- its color can be properly classified directly on the production line.
lished as a traditional stone supplier, providing material for “We work with eight varieties of White Carrara marble, each with
architectural projects around the world, such as the Italian Embas- its own pattern and tone, and we ensure each is perfectly consis-
sy in Washington, DC. “For the past three or four years, I really tent within that range.”
wanted to be different and be at the forefront, pushing design The factory for classifying and packaging tiles is equipped with the
itself,” explained company founder Dante Venturini. The marble tile latest generation of technology from Barbieri & Tarozzi, and human
production is marketed under the “Luce di Carrara” brand, and it intervention is practically unnecessary during the process. After the
is entirely comprised of White Carrara marble varieties, which are tiles within various categories are dried, they move along the line to
quarried near the factory. a Flawmaster system from Surface Inspection of Bristol, England.
066-083 Liguria.indd 82 12/21/09 2:02:50 PM

The finished
products are
on display in a
modern show-
room adjacent
to the factory.
White Carrara
marble can
The factory for classifying and packaging be found in a
tiles is equipped with the latest generation broad range
of technology from Barbieri & Tarozzi, and Tile are stacked and packaged automatically, and of modern
human intervention is practically unneces- robotic forklifts are used to transport pallets of applications.
sary during the process. material around the plant.
Technotiles has also partnered with prominent architects on a

variety of initiatives. The latest of these is a collaboration with
Foster + Partners where certain stone materials are grouped
with complementary elements of glass, mirrors and other
design elements in sample kits to offer inspiration to designers
and homeowners.
Another initiative by the company is “Luce Diffusa,”

The tiles are packaged in distinctive which combines translucent onyx or marble panels with
“Luce di Carrara” boxes, and each is Plexiglas. The product is then hung on an innovative
marked with all the relevant informa- rail system that allows the material to be backlit without
tion for the material. showing any support behind the stone.
This automatic inspection system was developed for the ceramic tile inspiration to designers and homeowners. “We aren’t endorsing
industry to classify tiles according to their quality, tonality and shade. a particular stone, but rather we want to inspire the end user with
The Flawmaster works with a wide set of algorithms to identify all different systems and concepts,” Venturini explained. “You start
types of mechanical and decoration defects. Giving an added level of with stone and other materials, and the added value is the design.
quality control, designated specialists also review each tile before it We seek to do this every year, and our last collaboration was with
moves on to the packing unit. Francesco Lucchese for backlit onyx.”
Tile are stacked and packaged automatically, and robotic forklifts Another initiative by the company is “Luce Diffusa,” which com-
are used to transport pallets of material around the plant. The tiles are bines translucent onyx or marble panels with Plexiglas. The product
packaged in distinctive “Luce di Carrara” boxes, and each is marked is then hung on an innovative rail system that allows the material to be
with all the relevant information for the material. backlit without showing any support behind the stone.
In addition to striving for perfect tile production, Technotiles has “It was not easy to develop,” Venturini said. “We had to formulate
also partnered with prominent architects on a variety of initiatives. the proper glue that would work with the stone and with the Plexiglas,
The latest of these is a collaboration with Foster + Partners where and maintain a holding capacity of 5 kilograms per square centimeter.
certain stone materials are grouped with complementary elements We also determined that we needed the stone to be at least 1 cm
of glass, mirrors and other design elements in sample kits to offer thick, or you would lose the depth of the stone.”
066-083 Liguria.indd 83 12/21/09 2:03:21 PM

FABRICATING TECHNOLOGY
Anver Corp. — Vacuum Lifters Braxton-Bragg — Automated Slab Saw

Product Description: A line of standard, modular lifter-tilters that are Product D escription: The I mer C ombi 3 000 1 0-foot a utomated
offered with either electric or compressed-air power for handling heavy slab s aw, o ffered b y B raxton-Bragg, w as c onceived a s a n a ffordable
sheet w eighing u p t o 2 ,000 p ounds i s a vailable f rom A nver C orp. o f alternative to large stationary bridge saws which can require a lengthy set-
Hudson, MA. up procedure at a h igher cost. The machine was engineered to be easy
Anver ET-AT Series vacuum lifter-tilters let one person manipulate heavy to install and simple to operate, yet perform with optimal accuracy and
sheet from the horizontal to the vertical and back while using a r emote smoothness of cut. The Combi 3000 arrives in a crate, is 99% assembled
control. Offered in electric and compressed-air powered versions, they are and can be up and running in two hours, the company reports.
equipped with four large rectangular suction pads with bonded seals, non- This 2 20-volt, single-phase, 2 0-amp s aw is e quipped w ith t wo side
skid surfaces, and shallow lips to evenly distribute holding forces. extension t ables a nd a 25 -gallon w ater t ub. T here a re a lso t wo h igh-
Featuring a c heck valve and built-in vacuum loss sensor with audio- quality full-size slab clamps that can be positioned at each end of the saw
visual a larms for optimum operator safety, A nver E T-AT S eries vacuum to ensure that the is locked down tight. A laser-cutting guide now comes
lifter-tilters are offered in 500-, 1,000- and 2,000-pound capacities. They standard with every Combi 3000.
are modular with two-, three- and four-pad designs and adjustable cross An onboard computer senses if the stone being cut becomes denser in
arms for handling sheet up to 8 x 10 feet in size. Applications include stone, certain spots and will automatically ensure that additional amperage is sent
steel, composite, and glass panels. to the motor, preventing stalling or pinching. The travel bar on the saw is
www.anver.com built like a suspension bridge — with pre-tensioned bars anchored within.
This ensures reliability and accuracy of cut within 1/32 inch over 10 feet.
www.braxton-bragg.com
GMM — Bullnose Polishers

Product Description: The Toro Series of bullnose polishers from GMM
features a body with an electro-welded structure that was machined using
CNC technology. The body also receives thermal treatment to unstress
materials due to welding.
Calibrators, drip cut and multi-functional units can be placed at the entry
GranQuartz — Stone Chisel
and exit of the machine. With various configurations, they allow the user to
Product Description: The new BigDog stone chisel from GranQuartz
work with the axis in vertical, inclined and horizontal positions. These units
comes with scallop, reverse scallop, soft stone and standard bite carbide
can accommodate levigating heads, profiling tools, bushhammering units
chisel teeth — a llowing the operator to produce natural a nd decorative
and discs for cutting. In order for the machine to work at correct speeds,
edge designs on most stone materials, including laminates, from 2 to 8 cm.
there is a double speed.
The BigDog’s ergonomic design was designed to be easier to operate than
By choosing the thickness and the type of profile to be executed, the
other chiselers, and it gives the operator a clear view of the work area for
lever p ositions i tself a utomatically a bove t he w orking a rea o n s pecial
precise placement of the chisel teeth and a cleaner edge on the finished
guides. The spindles, which are governed by separate hydraulic motors,
product. The BigDog’s powerful hydraulic ram delivers 5 t ons of directly
have various speeds from 2,200 rev/min to 1,000 rev/min starting with
applied force to the stone, and the modular jaw system allows the operator
the universal diamond tool up to the last polishing grain. A computerized
to switch the chisel teeth in seconds.
oscillating system allows users to work both on straight edges and different
round profiles. www.granquartz.com
Additionally, the Costa S eries automatic straight edge polisher from
GMM features many of the same benefits as the Toro Series, such as
the b ody a nd s pindle a dvantages a s w ell a s t he s ame u ser-friendly
configuration and multiple working modes.
www.gmm.it
084-086 Fabricating Technology.indd 84 1/6/10 9:14:39 AM

IS YOUR BUSINESS POSITIONED TO SURVIVE ?
No matter the size of your business, by investing in the Natural Stone Council, you unify and strengthen our industry by bolstering
preference for Genuine Stone® over synthetic materials. To learn more about how you can do your part, visit naturalstonecouncil.org.
NSC-7748-SW-SH
nscsw0509.indd 1n3.indd 1 7/23/08
4/20/09 11:35:58 AM
2:44:09 PM
Granite City Tool - Single-Head Polishing Machine

Product Description: The Denver Solution, available from Granite City
Tool, is a single-head, mono-bloc polishing machine capable of producing
many different types of surface finishes. The market for textured stones
has increased dramatically over the last five years, the company reports,
requiring slab dealers to stock several different types of the same stone
International Machine Corp. (IMC) - Water Filtration System
with different finishes to meet market demands. This machine was
Product Description: The 150 Lt C ompact Water F iltration System,
designed to save the fabricator or stone dealer from having to stock several
available from International Machine Corp. (IMC) is a completely automated
different finishes of the same stone. Additionally, many slab dealers receive
water f iltration s ystem t hat r emoves s ludge f rom a f abrication s hop’s
material in containers that have scratches or swirl marks in the polish, and
water. The 150 Lt c ompany plant is constructed of hot galvanized steel.
the Denver Solution can repair these imperfections. This machine allows a
This closed-loop system comes with a submersible pump to remove and
slab dealer to recover the cost of the stone and repair the stone rather than
transfer mud from the pits into the silo.
having to discount the stone and sell it for no profit, the company reports.
Other features include flocculent station for preparing and automatic
The m achine i s c apable o f t aking p olished s labs o f m aterial a nd
dosing as well as a pneumatic pump to pump the mud from the silo to the
producing a h oned s urface. T he m achine w as a lso d esigned t o d o
filter press. The automatic filter press offers simultaneous opening of four
texturing, m eeting t he m arket d emand f or t extured s labs — s uch a s
300- x 3 00-mm plates. The system is available in all sizes to provide a
“leather,” “sandblasted,” “bush-hammered” and others. All of these finishes
custom solution based on any shop’s needs.
are gaining in popularity with architects and designers. The Solution offers
the fabricator or stone dealer the option to do any of these popular finishes www.internationalmachinecorp.com
in their facility without having to wait for containers to be shipped from
overseas. Granite City Tool adds that the machine is economically priced in
relation to others in the market.
www.granitecitytool.com
Laser Products Industries - Laser Templating System Marmo Meccancia — Bridge Saw with Rotating Head
Project Description: Since 1995, Laser Products Industries — w hich Product Description: Marmo Meccanica S.p.A. has increased its range
developed t he LT-55XL P recision L aser Templator — h as f ocused o n of bridge sawing machines with a new model called HTO-XALOC-R, a
supplying lasers that provide accurate measurements of jobsites and assist bridge saw with a 3 60-degree rotating head, stationary bench and four
in fabricating products to match. controlled axles (X, Y, Z, and R/head rotation) with unrelated controls and
The LT-55XL Precision Laser Templator allows users to walk off any precision tracks protected by sliding belts.
jobsite with a C AD-ready DXF file, and users can produce estimates on On request, the inclination of the HTO-XALOC-R disc can be motorized
the jobsite for their customers to sign. Moreover, Laser Products reports and controlled, creating a fifth axis. (This motion is manual in the standard
that the system will improve overall quality, accuracy and speed —- leading model.) It can also incline from 0 to 45 degrees.
to quicker installations, less errors and virtually no scrap. O ver 9 0% of Also on request, the machine can be fitted with a second electromandrel
the features for the LT-55XL are in place because customers specifically (vertical axis and pneumatic engagement for the use of small holes, vertical
asked for them. Some recent updates include “Slab Layout,” “Alternate Cut milling tools and shaped wheels).
Sheets” and “Encryption.” In automatic mode, the machine can perform parallel cutting, executing
With Slab Layout, users can arrange individual pieces to determine how cuts for complex kitchen tops and fan-shaped stairs as well as curvilinear
many slabs will be needed to sell the customer. The Alternate Cut Sheets cutting programs by disc (and/or by vertical milling tool, if there is a second
update allows the fabricator/estimator to have a couple different printouts mandrel). On request, programs can be completed for non-rectilinear frames
— depending on what information they need to show the customer as well — with roughing out and finishing by “spatular” movement of the disc.
as the sawyers who are fabricating the job. Encryption allows the owners The control board is supported by an articulated arm, and it features
of fabrication shops to ensure that their templators do not moonlight on all necessary controls, including a large touch-screen. Programming can
the side. All jobs produced with the LT-55 XLs can be encrypted so that no control f our a xes (f ive o n r equest), w ith i nterpolation o f t hree a xes. A
other outsourced company can open and fabricate from them. second electromandrel for milling tools is available on request, with boring
www.LaserProductsUS.com and milling programs.
www.marmomeccanica.com
084-086 Fabricating Technology.indd 86 12/22/09 1:14:34 PM

CALENDAR
For all seminars and a more complete calendar of stone industry events, visit www.stoneworld.com.
February 2 to 4, 2010 May 19 to 22 , 2010

Surfaces 2010, Sands Expo & Convention Center, Las Ve- CarraraMarmotec, Carrara, Italy. Organized by CarraraFi-
gas, NV. Education program begins on Monday, February 1. ere Srl, Viale Galileo Galilei 133, 54033 Marina di Carrara
Owned and operated by Hanley-Wood Exhibitions. Spon- (MS), Italy; Phone: +39-0585 787963; Fax: +39-0585 787602;
sored by the World Floor Covering Association. Contact: E-mail: info@carraramarmotec.com; Web site: http://
1-800-547-3477; International calls contact: 1-972-536-6400; www.carraramarmotec.com.
Fax: 1-972-536-6401; Web site: www.SurfacesExpo.com.
June 10 to 12, 2010
February 4 to 7, 2010 American Institute of Architects National Convention and
Stona 2010, the 9th International Granites & Stone Fair, Ban- Design Expo, including the Stone and Tile Pavilion, Miami,
galore, India. Contact: Mr. Kempanna Chetty, Chairman Stona FL. Contact: M/C Communications LLC, 380 Stuart Street,
Fair Committee, All India Granites & Stone Association (AIG- 6th Floor, Boston, MA 02116; (888) 242-1824; E-mail: aiaex-
SA), Phone: +91-802361 2541; Fax: +91-80-2361 0993; E-mail: po@mc-comm.com or visit: www.aia.org.
aigsa@vsnl.net, aigsa@ebhasin.com, stona@stonaaigsa.com;
Web site: www.stonaaigsa.com. September 29 to October 2, 2010
Marmomacc 2010, the International Exhibition of Marble,
February 9 to 12, 2010 Stone and Technology and Building Materials Show, Verona, It-
Marmol 2010, International Show for Natural Stones, Ma- aly. Contact: Veronafiere at 39-045-829-8111 (phone); 39-045-
chinery and Related Equipment (part of Cevisama ceramics 829-8288 (fax) or visit www.marmomacc.it/home_en.asp.
exhibition), Valencia, Spain. Contact: Feria Valencia, 34-96
386-11 00; E-mail: feriavalencia@feriavalencia.com; Web September 28 to October 2, 2010
site: www.feriavalencia.com. Cersaie 2010, Bologna Exhibition Centre, Bologna, Italy.
Contact: P.O. Box 103-40050 Centergross, Bologna, Ita-
February 23 to 26, 2010 ly. Phone: 39 051 6646000; Fax: 39 051 862514; Web site:
The Vitória Stone Fair 2010, Carapina Expo Center, Serra, Espírito www.cersaie.com.
Santo, Brazil. Contact: Milanez & Milaneze, +55 27 3337-6855;
Fax: +55 27 3337-4011; Web site: www.feiradomarmore.com.br.
March 6 to 9, 2010
The 10th China Xiamen International Stone Fair, Xia-
men International Conference and Exhibition Center;
Phone: 86-592-5959616 / 5959618; Fax: 86-592-5959611;
Web site: www.stonefair.org.cn; E-mail: info@cxisf.com,
info@stonefair.org.cn.
April 6 to 9, 2010
StoneTech Shanghai, Shanghai New International Exhibition
Center, China. Organizer: CIEC Exhibition Co. Ltd., Shang-
hai, 1/F, No.6, E. Beisanhuan Rd., Beijing, China; Phone:
8610 84600802; 84600319; Fax: 8610 84600346; E-mail:
luyu@ciec.com.cn; Web site: www.stonetech.org.cn.
April 16 to 18, 2010

2009 Kitchen & Bath Industry Show (K/BIS) & Confer-
ence (conference begins on April 15), McCormick Place,
Chicago, IL. Contact: VNU Expositions; Phone: (800)
933-8735 or (770) 291-5409; Fax: (770) 777-8700; E-mail:
kbiscustomerservice@vnuexpo.com.
April 27 to 30, 2010

Coverings 2010, Orange County Convention Center, Orlan-
do, FL. Contact: Coverings/National Trade Productions, 313
S. Patrick St., Alexandria, VA 22314; Phone in the U.S.: (866)
285-3691 or International: +1-703-706-8257; Fax: (703) 836-
4486; Web site: www.coverings.com.
087 Calendar.indd 87 12/22/09 2:00:56 PM

MK Diamond - Diamond Core Bits

Product D escription: MK D iamond o ffers a c omplete s ystem o f
diamond core bits for hard tiles and stone. The MK-190 core bits were
engineered to offer excellent wear rates, speed of cut and cut finish. These
high-performance diamond core bits are designed for optimal performance
by utilizing Vacuum Braze Technology that provides the strongest bond
between diamond particles and the drilling surface of the core bit.
The MK-190 core bits are designed to operate on any corded or cordless
drill. MK Diamond reports that the core bits drill clean holes quickly and
easily because there is no bond to wear away, and diamond particles work
at peak performance at all times. With the self-sharpening diamond cutting
edge, professionals can utilize these bits on wall and hard surface flooring.
A self-tracking cutting edge is created when the bore is drilled in the tile,
thus reducing the possibility of a wandering core bit.
These core bits were designed to offer: increased productivity from
the core ejection slot that clears slot debris and plugs without stopping
during repeated drilling operations; and a reverse spiral thread that delivers
continuous water feed to the cutting surface areas, extending bit life and
improving drill speed.
Available in 11 different sizes — f rom 3/16 to 1 3/8 inch, they can drill
holes f or e veryday i tems s uch a s t owel r acks, p ipe b rackets, l ighting,
mirrors and blinds.
www.mkdiamond.com
Tenax - New Resin Technology

Product D escription: Glaxs is a z ero-yellowing r esin p roduct f rom
Tenax. The tile sample pictured above was tested under special UV light
that aged all the adhesives by 15 years. The epoxy resins yellowed, and
Tenax Glaxs — t he new g eneration b i-component system — s tayed t he
same as it was when initially applied.
Tenax G laxs i s n ot a p olyester o r a n e poxy, b ut a n ew-generation,
bi-component system. It is for indoor and outdoor applications and can be
exposed to direct sunlight. The product offers strong bond strength, and is
ideal for applications that require an adhesive that cannot yellow.
www.tenaxusa.com
084-086 Fabricating Technology.indd 88 12/22/09 1:15:28 PM

NEW LITERATURE
Kur t / N E M I ha s a n nou nce d t he part production, ha nd le va r iou s si ze
publication of an all new catalog assuring precision and parts and for use on
conta in ing 36 pages of t he latest repeatable acc u rac y, other jobs. These Kurt/
vacuum work-holding and automated the manufact urer N E M I work-hold i ng
s yste ms, d ig it i ze r s, sof t wa re a nd reports. systems prov ide a
tool setters. Providing a full range T he ne w c at a lo g r a p i d c o s t- p a y b a c k
of options, the new catalog contains contains hundreds of by reducing labor
one of the broadest offerings in the modular components content and increasing
work-holding industry, according to in ma ny si zes for productivity, according
the company. designing any type of to Kurt/NEMI.
Included in the Kurt/ N EMI vacuum work-holding Application photos
vacuum line of work-holding are grid system to handle a full and specif ications
system tables ranging up to 60 x 120 range of applications throughout the
inches as standard sizes and table on machine tools of A new catalog by Kurt/NEMI showcases catalog show t y pical
sizes made to customer specifications. most sizes. the latest vacuum work-holding and work-holding set ups,
These grid tables form the mounting Kurt/NEMI modular automated systems, digitizers, software making it easy to select
and tool setters
platform for a flexible work-holding vacuum work-holding an assembly to do the
system. They are ideal for use on CNC s e t up s c a n b e e a si ly c on f i g u r e d job. Specific technical information for
routers a nd ot her mach ine tools. to handle stone, wood and metal each product is also available online.
When integrated with a Kurt robot, designs on the grid system table setup. To supplement this information, a
these workholding systems provide Utilizing a variety of positioning pods, Kurt/NEMI technical service expert
3-axis capability in a moving gantry chucks, locating pins and accessories, is available by phone to assist in the
CNC system. They are designed to these setups have the advantages of work- hold i n g c o n f i g u r at ion a nd
work well with a variety of single- to a dedicated fixture with f lexibility ordering process.
multi-spindle setups for high-volume for reconfiguring the components to www.kurtworkholding.com
088-091 NP, NE, NL.indd 89 12/22/09 1:17:18 PM

NEW PRODUCTS
VIC International Corp., a leading and training for the restoration and The new OptimaTM
natural stone and concrete industry m a i nte n a nc e o f nu me r o u s h a r d restoration and
maintenance
leader, recently announced its new surfaces. After selling the StoneMedic® product line from
Optima™ restoration and maintenance pro duc t l i ne to E colab i n 2 0 0 4, VIC International
Corp.
product line of chemicals, diamond VIC International has been focused
tooling and equipment for natural stone, on countertop fabrication, surface extensive knowledge of restoration
ceramic tile, terrazzo and concrete. preparation and concrete polishing. a nd m a i nte n a nc e w it h i nd u s t r y
Since 1990, VIC has been at the Now, after a five-year absence from vetera ns to c reate a n economica l
fore f ront of i n novat ive pro duc t s the industry, VIC has combined its and ecologically responsible line of
products ranging from impregnators
to floor machines.
“ T he ma r r iage of V IC ’s Gre e n
Sp e c c e r t i f ie d conc r e te prog r a m
new! with the re-launch back into natural
511
stone restoration and maintenance
couldn’t come at a better time for
our indust r y,” sa id V IC P resident
kleen
and CEO, Kelly Milligan. “Through a
&
30-year pursuit of solutions through
i n novat ion by now Cha i r ma n of
the Board, Vic Green, such industry
reseal brea k t h roug hs a s a pa ste ma rble
p ol i sh i n g c omp ou nd a nd l iqu id
For Granite, Marble, granite polish were realized.”
Natural Stone, www.vicintl.com
Ceramic/Porcelain
& Grout Braxton-Bragg, a distributor of a full
■ One Step Process range of fabrication
■ Contains 511 H2O Plus machinery, tooling
to Reseal as it Cleans a nd i nsta l lat ion
■ For Regular Use accessories, is now
of fer ing Gla ze ‘ N
Seal products. Glaze
‘N Seal is a leading
supplier since 1962
1-800-350-1901 of qua l it y sea lers
www.miraclesealants.com
a nd ma i nte na nce
new! c a re pro duc t s for
sealer the natural stone,
applicator
and tray
Glaze ‘N Seal
products are now
tile, concrete and
masonr y ma rkets.
Glaze ‘N Seal offers
available from a complete line of
■ Sealer Tray Included Braxton-Bragg sea lers, i nc lud i ng
■ Interior or Exterior Use
film forming sealers (coating type) and
■ Special Foam Acts as a
penetrating sealers (non-coating type).
Reservoir to Provide a
Thin, Non-streaking, The manufacturer reports that these
Lint Free Application proprietary, premium sealers have
of Sealers earned a strong acceptance in many
markets due to their:
• Superior performance, even under
difficult conditions
• Ease of use both indoors and outdoors
• Exceptional oil and grease resistance
www.braxtonbragg.com

miraclesealsw06094.indd 1 5/15/09 9:44:01 AM
088-091 NP, NE, NL.indd 90 12/22/09 1:18:04 PM

NEW EQUIPMENT
Pedrini has recently introduced the Multiwire Jupiter productivity on the shop floor, reports the manufacturer.
GS200, a machine equipped with innovative and advance The P11104AIRS provides the versatility of manual
technology. Available in the 8, 16, 32 180-degree rotation and manual 90- degree tilt movements.
and 40 wire models, it is a f lexible Due to its venturi-based power system, the P11104AIRS is less
solution that is ideal for the diamond susceptible to contamination from sources commonly found in
wire cutting of granite — specifically manufacturing environments than other standard
designed for the simultaneous cutting of P1 vacuum lifters, according to Wood’s Powr-Grip.
slabs with different thicknesses, ranging It is also capable of operating at temperatures
from 2 to 10 cm. from 0 to 120 degrees F (-18 to 49 degrees C) and
T he Mu lt iw i re Jupiter GS2 0 0 at elevations up to 10,000 feet (3048 meters),
combines high technology with simple allowing for use in a broader range of workplace
The Pedrini Multiwire
handling and allows for an optimal environments. In addition to its versatility, the
Jupiter GS200
yield of diamond wire which limits the venturi of the P11104AIRS has no moving parts
idle times for their replacement and thickness changing to wear or require lubrication, thus offering an
and reduces cutting costs, reports Pedrini. enhanced service life, reports Wood’s Powr-Grip.
Additionally, the machine utilizes simple, economic and Designed for use with a crane or overhead
functional patents to keep each diamond wire at the correct Wood’s hoisting system, the new air-powered P1 is slightly
Powr-Grip’s
tension, thus allowing a rectilinear trajectory and an easy P1 Channel lighter than the DC-powered units, weighing
replacement of the wire. Lifter now 57 pounds (26 kilograms), as compared to the
offered with
www.pedrini.it
a new option: 70 pounds (32 kilograms) of the DC version.
a power According to the manufacturer, this lighter weight
system to
KMT Waterjet Systems Inc., a leading global manufacturer makes the P11104AIRS easier for the operator
accommodate
of Ultra High Pressure pumps and components for waterjet a compressed to manipulate and effectively extends the load
systems, introduces the “fastest cutting, next generation” air power capacity of the hoisting equipment.
source
of waterjet cutting pumps, an ultra high pressure (UHP) www.powrgrip.com
90,000-psi/6.200-bar Maximum Power
KMT Streamline PRO® 125-hp Pump.
According to the manufacturer, the
KMT Streamline PRO® 125-hp pump
— with the largest 90,000-psi cutting
KMT Waterjet orifice in the waterjet cutting industry,
Systems Inc.’s ultra the .016 orifice — delivers the waterjet
high pressure (UHP)
cutter a reduction in operating time by
90,000-psi/6.200-bar
Maximum Power KMT cutting parts in approximately half the
Streamline PRO® 125- time of conventional 60,000 -psi/50 -
hp Pump
hp w ate r je t s y s te m s , r e p o r t s t he
manufacturer, adding that the KMT Streamline PRO® 60 is
also available in 90,000 psi.
The KMT Streamline PRO® 125 produces 1.43 gpm,
with cutting capabilities up to 90,0 0 0 psi with dual
cutting heads using two .011 orifices.
The KMT Streamline PRO® Series 125 hp and Streamline
PRO® 60 hp accommodates a wide range of applications with
5-axis, three-dimensional cutting capabilities using a swivel
mechanism — the new KMT Swivel PRO attachment.
www.kmtwaterjet.com
The P1 Channel Lifter, one of Wood’s Powr-Grip’s top

selling below-the-hook vacuum lifters, is now offered with a
new option: a power system to accommodate a compressed air
power source. Built to excel in a manufacturing or fabrication
shop environment, the P11104AIRS vacuum lifter employs a
venturi-type vacuum pump that allows the lifter to attach three
times faster than the company’s standard AC or DC versions
of the P1. This translates to quicker cycle times and greater
088-091 NP, NE, NL.indd 91 12/22/09 1:23:10 PM

Stone
of the month
Blanco Altea
Flexural strength ................................................................................... 11.2 MPa
Slip resistance............................................................................... RD > 45 Class 3
Breaking load at dowel hole ................................................................ 1,850 MPa
T
his Stone of the Month supplied by Levantina, Novelda, Spain. Technical details provide a frame of reference
only. Because stone is a product of nature, testing to determine specific physical qualities should be repeated for
each project. To submit your own Stone of the Month, send a high-resolution digital image, along with the rel-
evant technical data, to michael@stoneworld.com.
www.levantina.com
092 SOTM.indd 218 12/22/09 1:24:21 PM

Machine
of the month
S
andv ik Mining and Con- Since it also uses lighter, more agile In terms of dimensional stone min-
st r uct ion i s of f e r i n g a ne w and more easily transportable drill ing, where precision is critical, the
60-mm tool system for drilling rigs, it is highly suitable for drill-and- rock tools are even stronger deter-
quarry holes up to 152 mm in diam- blast contractors. miners. Sandvik reports that in slate
eter with hydraulic tophammers. The On the DTH side, there are also quarries in Spain, a new g uide-bit
company reports that quarry man- new tool-led solutions that promise f itted w ith cemented- carbide but-
agers i n Fra nce a nd G er ma ny a re to bring down costs. For example, tons instead of chisel-type inserts is
already using them as an alternative an advanced new grade of cemented- meeting very high demands. Most
to DTH hammers. Sandvik reports carbide has just been introduced for crucially, it is maintaining straight
that the new system is capable of DTH bits. Tackling the widest range holes in horizontal applications up to
drilling straight, clean blastholes up of rocks ever in an optimal manner, 25 meters long. Elsewhere, in much
to 25 meters deep nearly twice as fast this new “silver bullet” only requires harder and more valuable stones, such
as DTH hammers and using half the that the user chooses the best button- as granite, the new button bit offers
fuel. It also offers greater flexibility in shape and bit-face design for the rock straight drilling with fewer re-grind-
hole size in the 90 to 152 mm range. formation in question. ings and optimal service life.
www.sandvik.com
093 MOTM.indd 93 12/22/09 1:24:40 PM

BESTSELLERS
LIST
REMOVING SCRATCHES AND POLISHING STONE REFINISHING &
ENGINEERED STONE DVD MAINTENANCE BIBLE
by Fred Hueston - $79.95 by Fred Hueston - $160.00
This new 30-minute video shows how to polish and match the factory The most complete work of its kind. Filled
f nish of most engineered and quartz surface stone. This can be tricky. with nearly 500 pages of information for the
The techniques and polishing procedure is very diff cult as compared ref nishing, polishing, sealing and mainte-
to granite. This video will show you the technique as well as the type nance of stone f ooring. Contents include:
of abrasives to use. It also shows several tips including how to remove 1-Geology and Stone Identif cation; 2-Quar-
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& Polishing; 4-Procedures and Techniques;
5-Stone Maintenance; 9-Equipment; 10-Bids
FACE POLISHING GRANITE COUNTERTOPS DVD & Estimates; 11-Marketing; 12-Safety; 13-FAQ-
by Fred Hueston - $79.95 Frequently Asked Questions; 14-Special Reports/
This DVD shows how to remove a scratch from a black absolute Contract Forms/Appendix; 15-Resource Direc-
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several tips including how to remove metal marks and repair small & Def nitions. 500 pages.
scratches and chips. These techniques have taken years to develop and
every fabricator and restoration contractor should be aware of these
tricks. Specify VHS, DVD, or DVD PAL format. HOW MUCH ARE YOU
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FABRICATION, INSTALLATION AND SELECTION À
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Provides building professionals with everything needed to select, design
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Contains over 100 photographs and illustrations.
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FLOORING DVD
own buildings before their very eyes. A picture speaks a thousand
by Fred Hueston - $79.95 words. This pictorial journey will speak tens of thousands of dollars
This DVD will show you step-by-step how to resurface and polish marble
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ing a highly ref ective polish. Reference manual, resource directory,
money making sales tool.
equipment overview and troubleshooting guide included.
Please indicate how many copies of each book you would like. Please add additional $8.25 shipping &
Go online to handling charge for the 1st item and $4.25 for each additional item there after. Canadian and International orders will
incur higher s&h charges — email weingartzs@bnpmedia.com for exact s&h charges.
www.AECStore.com to
purchase or return this Please send payment of total books ordered. Checks should be payable in US
coupon with payment to: ___ Removing Scratches and dollars on a US bank.
Polishing Engineered
Stone World VISA MASTERCARD AMERICAN EXPRESS CHECK ENCLOSED
St one DVD
Stephanie Weingartz ___ S tone Ref nishing & CREDIT CARD NUMBER: _______________________________________________
2401 West Big Beaver, M aintenance Bible NAME: _________________________________________________________________
Suite 700, Troy, MI 48084 ___ How Much Are You Saving
ADDRESS: _____________________________________________________________
Phone: 248/244-1275 on YOUR Stone
M aintenance? CITY: _____________________________ STATE: _____________ ZIP: ___________
Fax: 248/786-1404
weingartzs@bnpmedia.com ___ How to Polish & Restore COUNTRY: _____________________________________________________________
Marble Flooring DVD
PHONE: _______________________________________________________________
___ Face Polishing Granite
Co untertops DVD E-MAIL: ________________________________________________________________
AEC STORE
___ A rchitectural Stone: SIGNATURE: ___________________________________________________________
F abrication, Installation
and Selection This form MUST be signed in order to be processed.
SW_ToolsOfTrade_Promo.indd 1 3/16/09 1:00:09 PM

MARKETPLACE RATES: $1175 per six month insertion, $1950 per twelve month insertion.
Call 734/340-5211, fax 734/340-5212 or e-mail: minghinej@bnpmedia.com for more information.
Your top source for high quality tool-holders for

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d
T-Tool USA, LLC Sample Boards
www.t-toolusa.com
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uct to the customer."
TTool_SWMarketplace1009.indd 1 9/21/09 1:24:23 PM
Always providing a
quality product,
made from the best
materials from
around the world, at
an affordable price.
150 Industrial Avenue, Greensboro, NC 27406
Phone: 336.273.0223 • Fax: 336.273.0699
len@graniteandmarblebymalave.com
www.malavegranite.com
W H O L E S A L E
Since 1 9 7 9 c o r p o r a t i o n
*MOST MEXICAN STONE PRODUCTS*

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Visit our web site: www.mextone.com
Call Ricardo: toll free nationwide 1-888-919-9433
or email samples requests to: ricardo@mextone.com
STONE TOOLS
Polishing pads, milling bits, cutting blades, stone edge processing
machines and much more. Good quality stone tools at whole sale prices
4” wet polish pad...$3.50/pc • 5” turbo blade...$9.50/pc
and much more, please visit our website
www.qualitystonetool.com | 908.627.3688
QualityStoneTool_SWMarketplace1009.indd 1 9/21/09 9:27:44 AM
095-097 Marketplace.indd 95 12/22/09 1:26:27 PM

MARKETPLACE
Proliner®, world’s leading digitizer in 2D & 3D measurement:
Measure stairs, bathrooms, swimming pool edges, formed
profiles, renovation, sinks, countertops, backsplashes and
all your other 2D and 3D objects.
PRODIM USA - Sales office USA - Mr. John Richerts 1-800-350-1901 • 1-626-443-6433
M. +1 678 699 0732 | E. johnr@prodimusa.com | I. www.prodimusa.com
www.miraclesealants.com
PRODIM INTERNATIONAL - Sales office Europe - Lage Dijk 26, 5705 BZ Helmond – NL
T. +31 (0)492 579050 | F. +31 (0)492 579059 | E. info@prodim.eu | I. www.prodim.eu
Prodim1209SW.indd 1 11/25/09 10:27:25 AM
Braxton-Bragg will offer the lowest prices and the

best service, delivered by the friendliest people
for the tools and materials that you want.
Call for a Free Catalog | T. 800.575.4401 | F. 800.915.5501
Bestview is what you want for Natural Stone

Over 60 different colors of
Granite Marble Slate in Tiles Slabs Countertops
Hand-Carved Marble Mantels and Sculptures
226 Gerry Drive
Wood Dale, IL 60191
Tel: (630) 594-1816 Call toll free 1-888-234-3899 for our New Catalog
Fax: (630) 594-1866
Email: sales@bestviewintl.com Visit us at www.bestviewintl.com
TENAX: For more than 50 years the World Wide Leader in Stone
Consumables Products: Adhesives, Sealers, Epoxy, Waxes, Sealers,
Diamond Abrasives, Calibrators, Polishing Bricks, Cutting Tools.
Tenax USA 1408 Center Park Dr. Charlotte, NC 28217
www.tenaxusa.com tenaxusa@bellsouth.net Ph. 704-583-1173
Atlanta Columbus
ONLY THE BEST

800-628-4634 800-971-1333
Houston Alexandria
800-388-4802 800-552-5558
Chicago Connecticut
800-446-7253 888-446-3226
Jacksonville Dallas
866-898-7778 800-846-4429
Miami Eastern PA
CORPORATE HEADQUARTERS 800-852-2718 800-446-0282 Tel. +39/045887 51 11 • Fax +39/045887 51 55
2038 83rd Street North Bergen, NJ 07047 CHINA • BRAZIL • PORTUGAL www.granitex.it
Phone: 201.869.5200 • 212.697.7230 • 800.446.2677 SPAIN • GREECE • ISRAEL • INDIA
Value for Life is our goal! The LT-55 Precision
ASER
Laser Templator - Visit
LPRODUCTS
Over many years we have learned what our customers need and
we provide it. They demand consistent product quality which our website to watch
is our main goal. They want personalized person to person
our full training video
service so we provide Regional Sales Manager dedicated to
your account. Finally we invest in a large and well stocked so you can actually see
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Please call for our monthly Special. industries in allowing our
AmeriSink Inc, s San Leandro, CA 94577 1335 Lakeside Dr. www.LaserProductsUS.com coustomers to know
Tel: 877-500-SINK(7465) s Fax: 510-667-3775 s www.amerisink.com Romeoville, IL 60446 Toll Free 866-539-0052 what they are buying.
VACUUM LIFTERS fofr STONE

Dealers Nationwide Allows one person to lift, tilt or r otate
smooth or rough stone. Electric, air or batter y
powered for use Indoors or out. 1 to 60,000
lbs. capacity.
36 Parmenter Road Made in USA
Hudson, MA 01749 The Leading Full-Service Vacuum Handling Equipment
Manufacturer Since 1968
w w w . a n t o l i n i . i t 800-654-3500 • Fax 978-568-1570

MARKETPLACE
G L A S S O S ® The Reliable Source For the Highest Quality Turkish Marble
CRYSTAL WHITE “All Over The World”
SLABS TILES CUT-TO-SIZE
Available from stock or full containers direct Head Office:
Haberler Sokak No 11, ®
Esentepe, 80300, Factory: Istiklal Mahallesi,
CCS Stone, INC Looks like Thassos, harder t han granite Tel 201-933-1515 Istanbul, Turkey Alacayir Mevkii, 11000, Bilecik
9-11 Caesar Place 800-227-7785
website: www.tekmarble.com.tr
Tel: +90 212 3372800 Tel: +90 228 2158500
Moonachie, NJ 07074 www.ccsstone.com Fax 201-933-5744 e-mail: info@tekmarble.com.tr
Fax: +90 212 3372820 Fax: +90 228 2158504
LEGACY SINK INC.

CCSStone_marketplace0909.indd 1
BEST QUALITY.
7/28/09 3:56:44 PM
LOWEST
O PRICES.
AS LOW AS 18 Gauge • 304 Stainless steel
$
67 1-866-656-7188
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LegacySink1209SW.indd 1 11/24/09 11:47:36 AM
MADE IN GERMANY
Own quarries! Own production!
Special for: Slabs, Floor tiles, Cut to size
www.vm-kaldorf.de
California Agent TriStone & Tile Inc., Van Nuys CA

info@tristoneandtile.com
VMKaldorf.indd 1
THE FABRICATOR’S CHOICE
7/8/09 10:13:24 AM
Available Everywhere
Providing Better Solutions to the Professional Visit www.CaesarStoneUS.com or

call 877-9QUARTZ (877-978-2789)
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Reserve your space in next month's

MARKETPLACE SECTION
contact Janelle Minghine
phone: 734.340.5211
fax 734.340.5212

CLASSIFIEDS
POSITIONS FOR SALE
M S International, Inc. FOR SALE Brand/Model: Breton “Speedy Cut FK/NC 800”
Machine Type: Bride Saw
The leading nationwide distributor of natural stone Velocity Decorative Edge Shaper Year/Condition 2004: Very Good Condition
slabs and tiles is seeking a branch manager and Elect./Voltage: 208-230 V, 60 Cy, 3 Ph.
& Polisher, Model Velo-STD, from Description: Numerically controlled bridge saw cutting line for
outside salespeople for the South Florida region.
Experience servicing the natural stone industry in
Park Industries. Currently in operation, countertop production or architectural work
the region is required. MSI offers an environment for good condition, 3400 hrs. Purchased in • Infeed and outfeed conveyor tables, usable cut size of 138” x
138”, 29 hp direct drive motor can handle between 20” and 32”
growth, a team atmosphere, competitive compensation 2006 for $250,000, asking $120,000 blades, Manually tilting head from 0-90 degrees, Siemens control
and a full benefits package. All candidates must be unit with touch screen, Programmable for step cutting, multiple
hardworking, determined, enthusiastic, a team player
OBO. Location Calgary, Alberta
cuts, and repetitive pattern cuts, slab scanning capable, ability
and very comfortable with computers. E-mail: mgolemme@graniteworx.com to optimize cuts
• 208V, 6800 hours total, currently under power
Please email resumes to: recruit@msistone.com Appr. Repl. Cost: $250,000
Sales Prive: $125,00
FOB/Region: NORTHEAST
GraniteWorx_SWClassified0110.indd 1 12/3/09 9:27:59 Curr.
AM Status Make Offer: 914.997.7968
ADVERTISER INDEX
Email: Info@amendolamarble.net
MSInternational_SW0609.indd 1 5/20/09 3:38:43 PM
ADVERTISER PAGE NO INTERNET ADDRESS PROMO PHONE

ABC Stone Trading 30 Amendo la Marble_SWClassified0110.indd
www.abcworldwidestone.com 1
516-997-9412 12/18/09 9:01:39 AM
All Wood Cabinetry, LLC 91 www.braxton-bragg.com 800-575-4401
AmeriSink 47 www.amerisink.com 877-500-7465
Antolini Luigi 99 www.antolini.it +39 045 6836611
Anver 65 www.anver.com 978-568-0221
Artisan 4 www.ArtisanSinks.com 973-286-0080
Bestview International 6 www.bestviewintl.com 630-594-1816
Blick Industries 41 www.blickindustries.com 949-499-5026
Braxton-Bragg 11 www.braxton-bragg.com 800-575-4401
Cactus Stone 23 www.cactusstone.com 602-914-2202
CaesarStone 21 www.CaesarStoneUS.com 818-779-0999
Carrara Show 53 www.carraramarmotec.com +39 0585 787963
Ceeta 56 www.ceeta.com +91 33 22832925/26
Chemcore 58 www.chemcore.com Austin 866-243-6267
Continental Diamond Products 50d,79 www.continentaldia.com 800-595-1237
Cosentino 32 www.cosentinonorthamerica.com 800-291-1311
Coverings 51 www.coverings.com 866-285-3691
Domain Industries 50 www.FreeDomainCatalog.com 866-385-7775
Dry Treat 43 www.drytreat.com 866-667-5119
GMM S.p.A. 63 www.gmm.it +39 0323 849711
Granite City Tool 37 www.granitecitytool.com 800-328-7094
Granite Depot 7 www.granitedepot.us 904-306-0036
Granitex S.p.A. 2 www.granitex.it +39 045 8875111
Granito Zucchi 29 www.granitozucchi.com.br 55 27 3243-9666
GranQuartz 17,39,50a www.granquartz.com 800-458-6222
IGM-International Granite & Marble 100 www.igmcorp.com 800-446-2677
International Machine Corp. 26 www.internationalmachinecorp. 631-244-8277
Jerong 18,67 www.jerongmarble.com 510-782-2888
JMS 28 www.juramarble.com +49 8421 3061
Laser Products 25 www.LaserProductsUS.com 866-539-0052
Marble Institute of America 81 www.marble-institute.com 440-250-9222
Marmo Meccanica S.p.A. 45 www.marmomeccanica.com +39 0731 60999
Master Wholesale 88 www.masterwholsale.com 800-938-7925
Milaneze y Milaneze 75 www.vitoriastonefair.com.br +55 27 3434.0600
Miracle Sealants 90 www.miraclesealants.com 800-350-1901
MK Diamond 32 www.mkdiamond.com 800-421-5830
MS International 50b,50c www.msistone.com 714-685-7500
Natural Stone Council 85 www.naturalstonecouncil.org 800-210-3916
Ogyu Manufacturing 55 www.ogyu.co.jp 81-48-222-4226
Pearl Abrasive 57 www.pearlabrasive.com 800-969-5561
Pokarna Limited 8,9 www.pokarna.com 91 40 2789 7722/6361
Primestone 35 www.primestone.ca 905-669-2999
Red Rock 73 http://redrockstone.com 800-258-2060
Regent Stone Products 77 www.regentistore.com 800-624-8210
Santamargherita 34a www.santamargherita.net +39 045 6835888
Soci 31 www.sociinc.com 800-910-1446
Southland 89 www.southlandstone.com 800-778-2730
Tab India 14,15 www.tabindia.com 763-571-8400
Tekmar 3 www.tekmarble.com +90 212 3372800
Tenax U.S.A. 49 www.tenaxusa.com 800-341-0432
TexaStone Quarries 27 www.TexaStone.com 432-354-2569
U.S. Granite Robotics 12 www.usgrobotics.com 800-999-3025
VM Kaldorf 10 www.vm-kaldorf.de +49 8423/9911-0
Windy Ridge Corp. 87 www.jetstik.com 800-639-2021
World Wide Stone Corp. 5 www.durangostone.com 602-438-1001
098 Advertiser Index.indd 98 12/22/09 1:28:59 PM

ELEGANT DUNE I GRANITO
www.antolini.it
antolinisw01104.indd 1 12/22/09 9:35:14 AM

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January 2010

Fabricator Market Forecast

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Complies with www.ArtisanSinks.com

artisansw12094.indd 1 11/18/09 9:33:20 AM

210 Route 4 East, Suite 203

Senior Art Director

Regional Advertising Managers

Steve Smith, 617/909-5973

6 January 2010 | Stone World

006-010 Masthead.indd 6 12/21/09 1:23:36 PM

New Year’s Resolution:

WE ARE READY TO HELP

COME AND VISIT US

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Single Copy Sales

Audience Audit Coordinator

For subscription information or service,

10 January 2010 | Stone World

006-010 Masthead.indd 10 1/5/10 10:40:45 AM

FREE Water Kit

Item # Description Everyday Low Price

Call and Place Same

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/ U R 6E IN - AT CHSOF T WAREGIVESYOUT HEABILIT YT OMAKE

Reliable Robotic Solutions For Stone Fabricators

w w w. u s g r o b o t i c s . c o m TEL: 800- 999- 3025

info@usgrobotics.com FAX: 847- 304- 1239

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62 Defining a flagship building in stone

66 Exploring Liguria’s stone heritage

Stone World | January 2010 13

013 Contents.indd 13 12/22/09 1:57:07 PM

From the Powerhouse of Black Granites, Tab India offers:

NATURAL STONE PROCESSORS

SUPREME BLACK from TAB INDIA The Powerhouse of Black Granites

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Marmomacc 2009, Verona, Italy

US OFFICE 30 - 52nd Way, Minneapolis, Minnesota 55421 Ph +1.763.571.8400 Fax +1.763.571.8600

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Michael Reis, Editor/Associate Publisher

016 StoneColumn.indd 2 12/22/09 1:33:33 PM

MANZELLI Vacuum Lifters are

Manzelli® vacuum lifters include

Toll-Free 1 (800) 458-6222 Fax: (770) 621-9771 • www.GranQuartz.com

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We ship nationwide with incredibly low freight costs!

Abalone $299/slab Boulder $299/slab Cranberry Willow 299/slab Mohave $299/slab

Mudslide $299/slab Sandstone $299/slab Tundra $299/slab White Cobblestone $299/slab

PREFAB 3CM GRANITE

Over 150 selections of granite, quartz & marble in stock.

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ELBERTON GRANITE ASSOCIATION EXECUTIVE VICE PRESIDENT

Stone World | January 2010 19

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U.S. INTERNATIONAL TRADE COURT RULES FOR ANTI-DUMPING DUTY ORDERS

20 January 2010 | Stone World

019-020 Newsline.indd 20 12/21/09 1:24:21 PM

Look and Feel.

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COUNTRY GRANITE MARBLE* SLATE** OTHER***

22 January 2010 | Stone World

022-024 Stats.indd 22 12/21/09 3:34:34 PM

COUNTRY GRANITE MARBLE* SLATE** OTHER***

COUNTRY GRANITE MARBLE* SLATE OTHER*

COUNTRY GRANITE MARBLE* SLATE OTHER*