Granite Extraction and Block Selection

Extraction (more commonly referred to as quarrying) consists

of removing blocks or pieces of stone from an identified and

unearthed geologic deposit. Differences in the particular quarrying

techniques used often stems from variations in the physical

properties of the deposit itself—such as density, fracturing/bedding

planes, and depth.

Block extraction

The first step in quarrying is to gain access to the granite deposit.

This is achieved by removing the layer of earth, vegetation, and

rock unsuitable for product with heavy equipment and

transferring to onsite storage for potential use in later reclamation

of the site. After the face of the granite is exposed, the stone is removed from the quarry in benches, usually 8 to 12 feet square extending 20 feet or more using a variety of techniques suitable to the geology and characteristics of the granite deposit.

Quarrying operations typically include the drilling of holes along the perimeter of the bench, followed by either cutting the stone out of the deposit using saws equipped with diamond wire, or by splitting the stone using hydraulic splitters or small explosive charges. Once the bench is cut or split loose from the deposit, heavy equipment is used to lift the granite bench and transfer it to an inspection area for quality and size specifications.

Every block that meets the size requirement is then thoroughly checked for quality specifications. We have the most experience personnel including the directors, visiting the quarry and inspecting blocks that will be further processed. The blocks are checked for cracks, fissures, color pattern and other variations that help in ensuring the best blocks are selected and further moved to processing. Only one out of every ten blocks are selected ensuring we only select the most premium blocks.