Combined processing of natural stone is a combination of various traditional techniques of processing which as a whole allow getting unusual decorative effects on the surface of the material.
In Russia a combined processing of natural stone had not been very popular till recently; it had been an expensive product, not affordable for most people. But now with the development and improvement of technologies and techniques of processing stone a combined processing became more available.
Variants of processing of natural stone
Combined processing of natural stone allows getting a surface imitating natural skin and other materials which have textures. Similarity to imitated material in this case will be not only visual but also haptic.
• polishing stone;
• glazing or satin finishing;
• sawing of natural stone;
• heat treatment of natural stone;
• grinding;
• imitation of natural split;
• bush hammering of natural stone;
• ultrasonic decorative stone treatment;
• patina-forming treatment – artificial aging of natural stone (surface “antique”);
• tumbling of natural stone;
• sand blasting.
Combination of some variants of processing gives a possibility to get three-dimensional relief pattern, textured print of any pattern and also to cover it with brass leaf that provides the product with a rather high level of resistance to external conditions.
Choice of stone for combined processing
Combined processing is able to turn the most ordinary slab into a piece of art. What characteristics do natural slabs have and what stone to choose for creating a masterpiece?
Granite. It’s a solid stone of magmatic origin, strong and reliable. The material doesn’t transmit water and has an original natural pattern. All this makes granite popular when finishing works in construction. Stairs of granite is a symbol of stability and respectability of your house. It’s perfect for applying to the exterior of the building – a balcony, a porch, an entrance group.
Marble. It’s a metamorphic rock consisting of calcite and admixtures. The color of marble depends on the compound of admixtures. A pattern of the stone can be changed having chosen a necessary direction of sawing the blank. A final color and a pattern of this amazing natural material assert themselves after polishing. Marble is less solid and more hygroscopic than granite and requires a care. Marble is easily processed.
Onyx. The mineral refers to the category of semi-precious stones. The cost of finishing with onyx is high but it can give your interior a unique style. The stone is different in its translucency and beauty that was generously presented by nature. The ability of onyx to transmit light provides unlimited possibilities of realization of various backlights. Onyx keeps warmth and has good physical features.
Travertine. Aesthetic, functional and economical. It stands out with its abrasion resistance, lightness and a good transcalency. The last quality allows combining it with the heating effectively. It’s sensitive to some chemicals so it requires gentle detergents. Natural shades of light-gray and light-beige colors are perfect for manufacturing stairs and decorated elements.
Combined processing of natural stone is more and more demanded among architects and designers because it broadens their potential in applying such a magnificent material as natural stone to the interior and exterior designs of buildings.