Terminology Index

If you find it difficult to understand terminology used in a granite busisness don't worry! Use our guide below to clarify technical mambo jambo.

hand-cut random rectangular ashlar
a pattern where all stone is hand cut into squares and rectangulars. Joints are fairly consistent. Similar to sawed-bed ashlar in appearance.
hand or machine pitch-faced (rock-faced) ashlar
a finish given to both veneer stone and cutting stock. This is created by establishing a straight line back from the irregular face of the stone. Proper tools are then used to cut along the line, leaving a straight arris and the intended rustic finish on the face.
head
the end of a stone which has been tooled to match the face of the stone. Heads are used at outside corners, windows, door jambs, or any place where the veneering will be visible from the side.
hearth
that part of the floor of a fireplace of stone on which the fire is laid.
hearth stone
originally the single large stone or stones used for the hearth, now most commonly used to describe the stone in front of the fire chamber and many times extending on either or both sides of the front of the fire chamber.
holes
sinkages in the top beds of stone to engage Lewis pins for hoisting.
honed finish
honed is a super fine smooth finish, though not as fine as a polished finish.