1. Do you have a granite that looks like a marble?

The makeup and formation of granites and marbles are quite different and as a result the two often have different characteristics. Selecting the right stone is a process of coordinating the look you prefer with the material that has the properties that fit your project.

2. What is the difference between a quartzite and quartz slab?

Quartzite is a natural stone slab just as a marble or granite. These stones are often as hard as or harder than granites and are more resistant to etching than marbles.

Quartz slabs, on the other hand, are an engineered material made up of ground quartz grains held together by resins. Quartz slabs are engineered to be hard, nonporous, and etch resistant.

3. Does honing change durability?

Whether you choose a honed or polished stone the strength and durability of the material remains the same, changing the finish does not change the mineral make-up for the stone. Only the very thinnest top layer of the stone is affected by your choice of finishes. A honed surface may open up pores in the surface stone than its polished counterpart and as a result may require more frequent sealing.

4. How often do I have to seal my natural stone?

Because all natural stones have some level of porosity, applying a coat of sealant adds a layer of protection that will help repel spills from you stone. For most stones reapplying the sealant once a year provides sufficient protection. Consult your stone fabricator or refer to any warrantee information provided by the manufacturer of the sealer you’ve used for more detailed information.

5. How do I seal my natural stone?

Sealing your natural stone is a relatively easy task that you can do yourself. Following the instructions on the bottle, apply a small amount of the sealant to a cloth and spread evenly over the stone surface. Allow 10-15 mins for the solution to absorb into the stone and then wipe the surface one more time with a clean cloth to remove any excess.

6. What is etching?

Etching is a chemical reaction where calcium carbonate (a component of such stones marble, limestone, and travertine) is dissolved when exposed to acids. Substances like vinegar, lemon juice, or even some household cleaners can etch these types of stone resulting in a dull spot where the finish has been removed from the stone. Some repair can be made to hide such effects should they occur, but prevention is always the best course of action.

Since etching is a property of some natural stones, and not others, be sure to consult with your installer to ensure the stone you have selected is appropriate for your project and lifestyle.

7. Is natural stone sustainable?

Many aspects of natural stone contribute to its overall sustainability. The product is durable, recyclable, and requires comparatively little processing to bring to market.

8. Does quartz etch?

Quartz slabs are an engineered material made from ground quartz grains held together by resins. This material is not prone to etching.

9. What is the Mohs hardness scale?

The Mohs hardness scale refers to a 1-10 scale of how resistant your material will be to scratching. Diamonds are the hardest mineral and top out the scale at 10. Below is a list that gives you an idea of where different types of natural stone fall on the scale:

1 Soapstone

2.5-4 Slate

3-4 Marble & Limestone

4-5 Travertine

6-7 Granite

7+ Quartzite

10. What are the benefits of porcelain?

Porcelain slabs can provide the appearance of a natural stone with the attributes of being lightweight, nonporous, and etch/stain/ heat resistant.

11. Does Amsum & Ash fabricate?

Amsum & Ash does not do stone fabrication or installation, instead we work to supply the highest quality material to the fabricator of your choice.

12. How do the price levels work?

Since Amsum & Ash sells slabs only direct to your stone fabricator we cannot offer you an exact price on the material or a full installed price on your project. However, to give you some guidance all of our material is labeled on a price scale of 1 to 10. Price level 1 stones are most affordable and the price increases with level. For exact cost please contact your stone fabricator.

13. How often does Amsum & Ash receive new material?

We receive new shipments in weekly. Sometimes it is to replace existing colors that are running low, and sometimes we are bringing in new colors that we haven’t carried previously.

14. Do slabs or blocks vary?

Natural stone is quarried from the ground in large blocks which are then sliced up into the slab much like a loaf of bread. Because it is an all-natural product no two slabs will be identical, however slabs cut from the same block will exhibit very similar color and pattern. Slabs cut from the same block are often referred to and matching pairs.

If, on the other hand, you view slabs from different blocks you may find that they are quite different despite have the same name and originating from the same quarry. Blocks can vary based on the particular section of the quarry that is being worked at that time.

15. What can I expect from my natural stone?

If cared for properly, you can expect a lifetime of beauty and function form your natural stone.

16. Where does my natural stone come from?

Amsum & Ash sources our material from all corners of the world. The geologic conditions that lead to the formation of particular varieties of natural stone mean that often they are available in only one place on Earth.

When you visit our showroom you will notice all of our material is labeled with its country of origin

17. What is the average size of a slab of natural stone?

Natural stone slabs vary in size, but commonly the slabs are around 10ft x 6ft

18. How can I reserve material?

When you have decided on the specific stone you prefer, we will reserve the material for you for up to 30 days. The reservation process is free of charge, however we ask that you use this time to coordinate with your stone fabricator to confirm that the size and pricing is appropriate for your project.

19. How do I care for my natural stone?

In general natural stone is a very durable and forgiving material; however each variety comes with its own care and maintenance recommendations. Our staff will help explain the different care that is necessary to maintain the beauty of your specific stone for a lifetime.

20. Is there a quality difference in price levels?

There is no correlation between price and quality of your stone. Price is instead determined by factors such as the scarcity and aesthetics of the material. We work tirelessly to ensure the highest quality of all the products we supply.

21. Do I need an appointment to visit?

We do not require an appointment to visit our showroom to browse our material. However, if you have specific slabs reserved and would like to view them, we ask that you set up an appointment at least 24 hours ahead of time so that we can get the material moved out for you. Notice is required for both safety and quality control purposes.

22. How many slabs do I need?

Your stone fabricator will measure your project and determine the exact amount of material necessary. Most kitchens require between 1-3 slabs to complete.