Developing Dimension Stone Deposits in Western North America

摘要

With the use of diamond tools and automated finishing equipment, new technology has allowed the cost of stone production to be reduced so that it is now cost competitive with manmade materials. This reduced cost has increased the usage of stone, generated a growing North American market, and created opportunities for new deposits to be developed. Determining the potential for success of developing a particular deposit becomes the domain of the geologist. The primary geological issue that needs to be addressed in a natural stone deposit is the size and quantity of blocks that are consistent in texture and color that can be produced.