Terminology Index

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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.

Index: A B C D E F G H I J K L M N O P Q R S T U V W X Y Z

Letter: M

machine finish
the generally recognized standard machine finish produced by the planers.
malpais
literally, badland; refers to dark colored rock, commonly lava, in rough terrain. As defined for architectural use; calcium carbonate with other components which give it color, markings, and texture suitable as a desirable building stone.
marble
a metamorphic limestone in a more or less crystalline state capable of taking a high polish. Occurs in a wide range of colors and variations. Marble that contains less than five percent magnesium carbonate may be termed calcite marble; from 5 to 40 percent magnesium carbonate, magnesian or dolomitic marble; and more than 40 percent dolomite marble. These limiting values are, however, not strictly established in petrologic science and are used herein as arbitrary limits.
masonry
built up construction, usually of a combination of materials set in mortar.
metamorphism
the change or alteration in a rock caused by exterior agencies, such as deep-seated heat and pressure, or intrusion of rock materials.
miter
the junction of two units at an angle of which the junction lines usually bisect on a 45 degree angle.
modular multiple-cut (pattern-cut)
this refers to standard patterns used throughout the stone industry. These patterns are usually based on multiples of a given height. Stone that is multiple cut or pattern cut is pre-cut to allow typically for ¼ or ½ inch (6 or 13 mm) joints or beds.
moldings
decorative stone deviating from a plane surface by projections, curved profiles, recessed or any combination thereof.
mortar
a plastic mixture of cement, lime, sand, and water used to bond masonry units.
mosaic
a veneering which is generally irregular with no definite pattern. Nearly all the stone used in a mosaic pattern is irregular in shape.