{"id":248368,"date":"2026-09-01T08:36:12","date_gmt":"2026-09-01T07:36:12","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/?page_id=248368"},"modified":"2026-09-01T08:36:12","modified_gmt":"2026-09-01T07:36:12","slug":"marble-natural-stone-glossary","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/natural-stone-encyclopedia\/marble-natural-stone-glossary\/","title":{"rendered":"Marble and Natural-Stone Glossary"},"content":{"rendered":"

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Home<\/a> \/ Natural Stone Encyclopedia<\/a> \/ Marble and Natural-Stone Glossary<\/strong><\/div>\n
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Beginner guide and reference glossary<\/p>\n

Marble and Natural-Stone Glossary<\/h1>\n

Understand the essential language of natural stone, from choosing a marble slab to finishes, installation, maintenance and project documents.<\/p>\n

Ask a stone specialist<\/a>View available stone<\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
\"Natural<\/a>
A practical vocabulary for discussing natural stone with architects, fabricators and installers.<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n
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Quick search<\/p>\n

Find a definition<\/h2>\n
<\/div>\n

131 definitions available.<\/p>\n<\/section>\n

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New to natural stone? Start with these 24 terms<\/h2>\n

This short route covers the vocabulary most clients need before choosing a material, approving slabs or discussing installation. Select a term to jump to its plain-English definition.<\/p>\n

Natural stone<\/a>Marble<\/a>Granite<\/a>Quartzite<\/a>Limestone<\/a>Travertine<\/a>Trade name<\/a>Batch or lot<\/a>Slab<\/a>Vein<\/a>Stone layout<\/a>Natural variation<\/a>Porosity<\/a>Acid sensitivity<\/a>Slip resistance<\/a>Polished<\/a>Honed<\/a>Substrate<\/a>Movement joint<\/a>Waterproofing<\/a>Impregnating sealer<\/a>Etching<\/a>Efflorescence<\/a>Specification<\/a><\/div>\n<\/section>\n
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How to use this glossary<\/h2>\n

First identify the stone family and the intended use. Then connect every technical word to a real decision: appearance, finish, strength, installation, maintenance, risk or acceptance.<\/p>\n

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  • Do not rely on a trade name alone: check the exact stone, quarry batch and finish.<\/li>\n
  • Use current slab photographs or a dry layout for strongly veined material.<\/li>\n
  • Remember that a sealer does not make a shower or terrace waterproof.<\/li>\n
  • When a finish name could be interpreted differently, approve a physical sample.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    Stone families and material identity<\/h2>\n

    Start by identifying what the material actually is. A colour or trade name alone cannot predict performance.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Natural stone<\/td>\nRock quarried from the earth, then sawn, shaped and finished for construction or decoration.<\/td>\nEvery natural stone varies in colour, pattern, porosity and strength; it is not a perfectly standardised product.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Marble<\/td>\nGeologically, limestone or dolostone recrystallised by heat and pressure. In the stone trade, the name may also cover decorative limestones that take a polish.<\/td>\nGeological and commercial meanings must be distinguished when assessing acids, maintenance and use.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Granite<\/td>\nA hard igneous rock made mainly of interlocking quartz, feldspar and mica crystals.<\/td>\nIt is often suitable for demanding uses, but the exact granite, finish and test data still need checking.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Quartzite<\/td>\nA metamorphic rock formed from quartz-rich sandstone, usually hard and compact.<\/td>\nSome stones sold as quartzite are softer or acid-sensitive, so correct identification is essential.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Limestone<\/td>\nA sedimentary rock composed mainly of calcium carbonate.<\/td>\nIt can be porous and acid-sensitive; behaviour differs greatly between quarry beds.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Travertine<\/td>\nA porous limestone precipitated from mineral-rich water, with characteristic holes and channels.<\/td>\nIts voids may be left open or filled, and that choice affects appearance, cleaning and durability.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Onyx<\/td>\nIn the decorative-stone trade, a translucent calcite-rich stone used for feature work and backlighting.<\/td>\nIt creates striking effects but is generally more fragile and better suited to controlled interior uses.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Breccia<\/td>\nA rock made of angular natural fragments bound together by a mineral matrix.<\/td>\nIts fragmented pattern is decorative, while veins and weakness planes require careful slab selection and fabrication.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Sandstone<\/td>\nA sedimentary rock made of mineral grains, commonly quartz, cemented together.<\/td>\nPorosity, bedding and the type of cement influence weathering, staining and exterior suitability.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Slate<\/td>\nA fine-grained metamorphic rock that splits naturally along cleavage planes.<\/td>\nThe direction and quality of the cleavage govern thickness, edge quality and durability.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Geological family<\/td>\nThe scientific rock category based on composition and formation.<\/td>\nIt gives a first indication of behaviour but never replaces checks on the exact stone and batch.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Trade name<\/td>\nThe commercial name used to sell a stone; it may not be a strict geological description.<\/td>\nSimilar names can refer to very different materials, origins and performances.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Engineered quartz<\/td>\nA manufactured composite of quartz particles, resin and pigments; it is not natural stone.<\/td>\nIt must not be confused with natural quartzite, especially for heat, UV exposure and product documentation.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Sintered or porcelain slab<\/td>\nA factory-made ceramic or mineral surface produced at high temperature; it is not quarried stone.<\/td>\nIts fabrication, edge details and repair behaviour differ from marble, granite and quartzite.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
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    From quarry to selected slab<\/h2>\n

    These terms describe how stone is extracted, supplied and approved before fabrication.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Quarry<\/td>\nThe site where natural stone is extracted from the ground.<\/td>\nDifferent faces and beds within one quarry can produce visibly and technically different material.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Block<\/td>\nA large mass of stone extracted from the quarry before sawing.<\/td>\nBlock size, soundness and cutting direction govern available slabs and pattern.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Slab<\/td>\nA large sheet sawn from a block and used for worktops, walls, floors, furniture or special pieces.<\/td>\nVeined slabs are normally selected from current photographs or in person, not from a generic sample alone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Tile<\/td>\nA regularly sized, repeatable piece of stone for floors or walls.<\/td>\nNominal size does not remove natural variation or the need for a considered layout.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Batch or lot<\/td>\nA group of slabs or pieces selected from the same supply or production sequence.<\/td>\nApproving the actual batch improves colour and pattern consistency across the project.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Quarry bed<\/td>\nA distinct layer or extraction level within a quarry.<\/td>\nColour, fossils, veining and performance can change from one bed to another.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Cut on bed<\/td>\nStone cut and used in relation to its natural bedding direction.<\/td>\nOrientation can alter appearance and, for some stones, strength or weathering behaviour.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Vein<\/td>\nA natural line or band of minerals within the stone.<\/td>\nVeins guide the layout and may be purely visual or require technical assessment if open or weak.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Veining<\/td>\nThe overall arrangement and movement of veins across the material.<\/td>\nStrong veining should be previewed so the final composition is intentional.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Background colour<\/td>\nThe dominant field colour behind veins, fossils or other markings.<\/td>\nIt strongly influences the perceived consistency and mood of a room.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Clouding<\/td>\nA soft, diffuse zone of colour or texture rather than a defined vein.<\/td>\nClouding is often a normal characteristic, not a defect.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Fossil<\/td>\nThe preserved trace or remains of an organism in some limestones.<\/td>\nFossils form part of the stone identity and should be accepted as natural variation.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Stylolite<\/td>\nA dark, jagged natural seam formed by pressure dissolution, especially in limestone.<\/td>\nIt is often mistaken for a crack; its position and soundness must be interpreted correctly.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Fissure<\/td>\nA fine natural discontinuity in the stone, often mineralised or resin-filled.<\/td>\nA fissure is not automatically a structural crack, but it must be considered during fabrication.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Resin treatment<\/td>\nFactory application of resin to fill pores or reinforce certain slabs before polishing.<\/td>\nThe treatment should be disclosed and compatible with adhesive, heat, UV exposure and the intended use.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Mesh backing<\/td>\nA reinforcing mesh bonded to the back of a slab.<\/td>\nIt may help fragile material during handling, but it changes the bonding interface and does not replace proper design.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
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    Reading appearance and planning the pattern<\/h2>\n

    Natural variation becomes a design asset when slabs and pieces are composed before cutting and installation.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Stone layout<\/td>\nThe planned position, size, orientation and jointing of every visible piece.<\/td>\nA good layout controls cuts, veins, focal points, waste and visual balance.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Slab layout<\/td>\nA drawing or digital arrangement that assigns cut pieces to particular areas of selected slabs.<\/td>\nIt links the design directly to the real material before fabrication starts.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Book-match<\/td>\nTwo consecutive slabs opened like a book so their patterns mirror each other.<\/td>\nThe centre line, joint width and exact slab sequence need approval.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Vein match<\/td>\nAlignment of veins from one piece or slab to the next.<\/td>\nIt creates continuity but may increase material use and fabrication complexity.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Dry lay<\/td>\nA temporary arrangement of pieces before permanent installation.<\/td>\nIt allows colour, pattern and joints to be reviewed while changes are still possible.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Sample<\/td>\nA small piece showing the general material and finish.<\/td>\nA sample cannot display the full range of a strongly varied natural stone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Control sample<\/td>\nAn agreed sample kept as the reference for acceptable colour, texture and finish.<\/td>\nIt gives client, supplier and installer a shared benchmark.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Mock-up<\/td>\nA representative part of the finished work built before full production or installation.<\/td>\nIt validates proportions, joints, lighting, workmanship and appearance at realistic scale.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Natural variation<\/td>\nNormal differences in colour, veins, fossils, pores or texture within a stone.<\/td>\nThe acceptable range should be explained and approved before ordering.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Defect<\/td>\nA condition that prevents the material or workmanship from meeting the agreed use or quality.<\/td>\nA defect is judged against the specification and approved range, not against an expectation of perfect uniformity.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
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    Technical properties beginners should recognise<\/h2>\n

    A test value is useful only when it relates to the exact stone, orientation, finish, thickness and intended use.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Porosity<\/td>\nThe amount and network of microscopic voids within the stone.<\/td>\nPorosity influences water movement, staining and the choice of maintenance or protection.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Water absorption<\/td>\nThe quantity of water a stone takes up under a defined test method.<\/td>\nIt helps assess wet areas, exterior exposure, frost risk and staining, but is not a complete durability rating.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Capillarity<\/td>\nMovement of liquid through fine pores without external pressure.<\/td>\nIt can cause rising damp, tide marks and salt transport through stone and mortar.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Frost resistance<\/td>\nAbility to withstand repeated freezing and thawing when moisture is present.<\/td>\nIt matters for exterior paving, fa\u00e7ades, terraces, pools and cold climates.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Flexural strength<\/td>\nResistance to bending before failure.<\/td>\nIt is critical for panels, treads, large slabs, overhangs and mechanically fixed stone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Compressive strength<\/td>\nResistance to crushing under load.<\/td>\nIt is relevant to massive pieces, paving and load-bearing details, but is not the only design property.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Abrasion resistance<\/td>\nResistance to surface wear from traffic, grit or rubbing.<\/td>\nIt affects floors, stairs, entrances, shops and other heavily used areas.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Slip resistance<\/td>\nThe grip provided by a surface under specified dry or wet test conditions.<\/td>\nFinish, water, contaminants, footwear and slope all influence real-world safety.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Hardness<\/td>\nRelative resistance to scratching or indentation.<\/td>\nHardness helps explain wear and fabrication difficulty but does not predict staining or cracking by itself.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Acid sensitivity<\/td>\nTendency of calcite-rich stone to react with acidic substances.<\/td>\nLemon, vinegar and limescale remover can etch marble, limestone and travertine.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Translucency<\/td>\nAbility to transmit some light through the material.<\/td>\nThickness, backing, joints and lighting design all affect a backlit installation.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Tolerance<\/td>\nPermitted variation from a specified dimension, level, alignment or appearance.<\/td>\nClear tolerances turn subjective expectations into measurable acceptance criteria.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Test report<\/td>\nA document recording a test method, specimen, conditions and result.<\/td>\nThe result is relevant only if the tested material and conditions represent the project.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    Cutting, visible edges and details<\/h2>\n

    Edge and fabrication terms should be supported by drawings, profiles or full-size samples whenever proportions matter.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Cut to size<\/td>\nStone fabricated to the dimensions required for a specific project.<\/td>\nDimensions, tolerances, finish, edge profile and piece identification must be coordinated.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Edge<\/td>\nThe visible side of a slab, worktop, shelf, tread or other stone element.<\/td>\nA drawing should define whether it is square, eased, bevelled, rounded, laminated or mitred.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Arris<\/td>\nThe sharp line where two stone faces meet.<\/td>\nA very sharp arris is vulnerable to chipping and may be softened slightly for durability.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Chamfer<\/td>\nA narrow flat cut across a sharp corner.<\/td>\nIt protects the edge and changes both touch and shadow line.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Bevel<\/td>\nA wider or more pronounced angled edge.<\/td>\nIts width and angle should be shown on a profile drawing.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Bullnose<\/td>\nA rounded edge profile, either full or partial.<\/td>\nRadius and thickness determine the final visual weight.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Mitred edge<\/td>\nTwo angled pieces joined to create a crisp corner or the appearance of a thicker slab.<\/td>\nVein alignment, adhesive line, impact risk and fabrication quality need close control.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Stair tread<\/td>\nThe horizontal part of a stair that receives foot traffic.<\/td>\nStrength, slip resistance, nosing geometry and support are safety-critical.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Riser<\/td>\nThe vertical face between two stair treads.<\/td>\nIts jointing and vein direction should align with the overall stair design.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Jamb<\/td>\nA vertical side piece to an opening, fireplace, vanity or other framed element.<\/td>\nLoads, fixings, thickness and pattern continuity must be coordinated.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Drip groove<\/td>\nA groove beneath a projecting piece that makes water drip clear of the face below.<\/td>\nIt reduces staining and water tracking under copings, sills and steps.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Kerf<\/td>\nA narrow slot cut into stone for a fixing, profile or controlled detail.<\/td>\nIts position and depth must not weaken the remaining stone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    CNC machining<\/td>\nComputer-controlled cutting, drilling or shaping.<\/td>\nIt enables precision and repetition, but the digital model still needs stone-specific tolerances and tool strategy.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    Surface finishes<\/h2>\n

    Finish changes colour, reflection, touch, grip, stain visibility and cleaning. The same finish name can vary between workshops.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Polished<\/td>\nA smooth, high-sheen finish produced through progressively finer abrasives.<\/td>\nIt deepens colour and pattern but can make scratches, etching and water marks more noticeable.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Honed<\/td>\nA smooth matt or low-sheen finish.<\/td>\nIt has a quieter appearance than polish, although acids can still mark carbonate stone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Brushed<\/td>\nA textured finish produced with abrasive brushes.<\/td>\nIt creates a warmer, tactile surface but needs cleaning suited to the texture.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Leathered<\/td>\nA gently textured, low-sheen finish often used on dark granite or quartzite.<\/td>\nTexture and reflectivity vary by material, so a real sample is important.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Flamed<\/td>\nA rough finish created by rapid thermal treatment, commonly on suitable granites.<\/td>\nIt can improve exterior grip but is not suitable for every stone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Sandblasted<\/td>\nA matt texture produced by controlled abrasive blasting.<\/td>\nIt may improve grip while increasing dirt retention and colour lightening.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Bush-hammered<\/td>\nA regular pitted texture made with a pointed hammering tool.<\/td>\nIt is robust and architectural, but its relief requires appropriate cleaning.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Tumbled or aged<\/td>\nA finish that softens edges and creates a deliberately worn appearance.<\/td>\nThe amount of chipping, rounding and colour variation should be agreed.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Patinated<\/td>\nA softened appearance created by finishing or acquired gradually through use and age.<\/td>\nA valued patina should not be mistaken for dirt or damage.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Anti-slip finish<\/td>\nA finish selected to reduce slipping under defined conditions.<\/td>\nMore texture can improve grip but may make cleaning harder; no finish is slip-proof in every situation.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    Installation and site work<\/h2>\n

    Stone is part of a complete system. A beautiful material cannot compensate for an unsuitable or damp substrate.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Substrate<\/td>\nThe surface or structure that receives the stone system.<\/td>\nMoisture, movement, strength and flatness must be checked before installation.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Screed<\/td>\nA layer used to create a level floor base or falls before the finish is installed.<\/td>\nIts dryness, strength, flatness and curing condition affect adhesion and staining risk.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Levelling compound<\/td>\nA material used to correct level or flatness before tiling.<\/td>\nIt must be compatible with the substrate, primer, adhesive, moisture and stone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Primer<\/td>\nA preparatory coating applied before adhesive or levelling material.<\/td>\nThe correct primer improves bonding or controls suction; it is not a universal substitute for surface preparation.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Stone adhesive<\/td>\nA bonding product selected for the stone, substrate, format and exposure.<\/td>\nColour, water content, deformability and curing chemistry can affect natural stone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Back-buttering<\/td>\nApplying adhesive to the back of the stone as well as the substrate.<\/td>\nIt improves contact and is often needed for large formats, exteriors or demanding areas.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Grout joint<\/td>\nThe filled space between adjacent tiles or slabs.<\/td>\nIt accommodates tolerances, assists maintenance and contributes to the visual rhythm.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Movement joint<\/td>\nA designed joint that allows building or finish layers to move.<\/td>\nCovering or filling it rigidly can cause cracking, tenting or debonding.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Uncoupling membrane<\/td>\nA layer intended to reduce transfer of certain substrate movements into the finish.<\/td>\nIt addresses specific movement risks but does not correct every structural or moisture problem.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Waterproofing<\/td>\nA continuous system designed to prevent water passing into the construction.<\/td>\nA surface sealer on the stone is not a substitute for shower, terrace or roof waterproofing.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Slope or fall<\/td>\nThe designed incline that directs water towards a drain or edge.<\/td>\nCorrect falls are essential in showers, balconies, terraces, sills and exterior paving.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Lippage<\/td>\nThe height difference between neighbouring finished stone edges.<\/td>\nFormat, warpage, substrate flatness and workmanship all affect the result and trip risk.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Flatness<\/td>\nHow closely a surface follows a plane when measured with an appropriate straightedge or instrument.<\/td>\nRequired flatness depends on the installation system, format and project tolerance.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Bonded installation<\/td>\nStone fixed to a prepared substrate with a suitable adhesive.<\/td>\nLayer compatibility, coverage, curing and movement joints determine system reliability.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Mortar-bed installation<\/td>\nStone placed and adjusted on a supporting mortar bed.<\/td>\nThe method, thickness, moisture and drainage must suit the location and local rules.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Mechanical fixing<\/td>\nAnchors, kerfs, rails or other devices that physically secure stone to a structure.<\/td>\nFixings and stone thickness must be engineered for loads, edge distances and exposure.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    Care, stains and common disorders<\/h2>\n

    First identify whether the symptom is a deposit, absorbed stain, chemical attack, moisture problem or physical damage.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    pH-neutral cleaner<\/td>\nA cleaner that is neither strongly acidic nor strongly alkaline.<\/td>\nIt is the safest starting point for routine care of marble and limestone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Impregnating sealer<\/td>\nA treatment absorbed into pores to reduce liquid penetration without forming a thick surface film.<\/td>\nIt can buy reaction time but does not make stone stain-proof or waterproof.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Water repellent<\/td>\nA treatment intended mainly to reduce water uptake.<\/td>\nIt may help in suitable conditions, but design, drainage and waterproofing remain essential.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Oil repellent<\/td>\nA treatment intended to reduce penetration of oils and grease.<\/td>\nIt may be useful for kitchens and tables after compatibility and appearance tests.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Poultice<\/td>\nAn absorbent paste used to draw a contaminant out of porous stone.<\/td>\nThe product and solvent must match the stain and stone, and a discreet test is essential.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Stain<\/td>\nDiscolouration caused by material deposited on or absorbed into the stone.<\/td>\nTreatment depends on identifying the substance and depth of penetration.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Etching<\/td>\nLoss of surface and shine caused when acid reacts with calcite-rich stone.<\/td>\nA stain remover will not repair etching; mechanical refinishing may be required.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Efflorescence<\/td>\nA usually white deposit of soluble salts crystallised on the surface.<\/td>\nCleaning alone will not solve it if moisture continues to carry salts.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Subflorescence<\/td>\nSalt crystallisation beneath the surface.<\/td>\nExpansion below the face can cause scaling, powdering or spalling.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Oxidation<\/td>\nA chemical reaction that can produce colour changes, often involving iron-bearing minerals or metal contamination.<\/td>\nThe moisture source and material involved must be diagnosed before treatment.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Spalling<\/td>\nBreaking or detachment of surface fragments.<\/td>\nPossible causes include salts, frost, corrosion, impact or incompatible repairs.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Delamination<\/td>\nSeparation along a layer, cleavage plane or bonded interface.<\/td>\nIt requires investigation of the failure plane and cause before repair.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Hollow sound<\/td>\nA different sound heard when tapping part of a floor or cladding.<\/td>\nIt is a useful comparative clue but does not prove debonding on its own.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Rising damp<\/td>\nUpward migration of water through pores from the ground or a wet construction layer.<\/td>\nIt can carry salts and create tide marks, staining or decay.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Patina<\/td>\nThe gradual, often valued change in appearance created by age, use and care.<\/td>\nIt should be distinguished from active deterioration or removable dirt.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Crystallisation<\/td>\nA chemical-mechanical maintenance process used on some calcite-based polished floors.<\/td>\nIt is not the same as factory polishing and is unsuitable for some stones or conditions.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    Project documents and quality control<\/h2>\n

    Clear documents connect the selected stone with design, fabrication, installation, acceptance and maintenance.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Specification<\/td>\nThe written requirements for material, finish, dimensions, performance, workmanship and checks.<\/td>\nIt should describe the actual project rather than copy a generic product brochure.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Shop drawing<\/td>\nA detailed fabrication or installation drawing prepared for approval.<\/td>\nIt coordinates dimensions, joints, supports, fixings, edges and piece references.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Technical data sheet<\/td>\nA supplier document summarising selected product characteristics.<\/td>\nIts scope, material reference, date and test basis must be checked.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Declaration of Performance (DoP)<\/td>\nA regulated declaration of specified product performance for a defined intended use.<\/td>\nIt is evidence within its stated scope, not a universal certificate of suitability.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    CE marking<\/td>\nA declaration-related marking for products covered by applicable European rules.<\/td>\nIt does not mean premium quality and does not replace project-specific design.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Intended use<\/td>\nThe application for which a product and its declared performance are assessed.<\/td>\nEvidence for an interior tile may not answer questions about an exterior fa\u00e7ade panel.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Traceability<\/td>\nThe ability to link delivered pieces to quarry, batch, slab, processing and documents.<\/td>\nIt supports quality checks, future matching, claims and responsible sourcing.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Inspection and test plan<\/td>\nA schedule defining what is checked, by whom, when and against which criteria.<\/td>\nIt makes approvals and hold points clear before irreversible work proceeds.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Acceptance criterion<\/td>\nA measurable or clearly described condition for approving work or material.<\/td>\nIt reduces disputes over appearance, tolerance and workmanship.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Snag or punch list<\/td>\nA recorded list of incomplete or non-compliant items near handover.<\/td>\nEach item should identify location, responsibility, remedy and close-out.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Handover<\/td>\nFormal transfer of the completed work with records, reservations and maintenance information.<\/td>\nCare instructions, spare material and approved documents should be included.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Maintenance plan<\/td>\nA planned routine for cleaning, inspection, protection and periodic intervention.<\/td>\nRealistic maintenance is part of selecting a suitable stone and finish.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    French project terms international clients may encounter<\/h2>\n

    When the project is in France, these abbreviations often appear in contracts, technical reviews and site meetings.<\/p>\n

    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Term<\/th>\nPlain-English meaning<\/th>\nWhy it matters<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    CCTP<\/td>\nFrench project specification describing technical requirements for each work package.<\/td>\nThe stone, finish, format, installation and acceptance requirements should be coordinated within it.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    NF DTU<\/td>\nFrench reference documents describing recognised building practices within a defined scope.<\/td>\nThe correct document and current edition must be checked against the project system.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    CSTB<\/td>\nFrench Scientific and Technical Centre for Building, which publishes assessments and technical documents.<\/td>\nA CSTB document is useful only within its stated field of application.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Avis Technique<\/td>\nA French technical assessment for a construction system or product in a defined scope.<\/td>\nIt is not a general approval for every configuration.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    DTA<\/td>\nDocument Technique d\u2019Application, a French assessment linked to a product covered by European technical provisions.<\/td>\nConditions, limits and installation details must be followed.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ATEx<\/td>\nA French experimental technical assessment for an innovative system or specific operation.<\/td>\nIt frames a defined use and cannot be extended automatically to another project.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    ERP<\/td>\nA French building open to the public and subject to specific safety and accessibility rules.<\/td>\nSlip, fire, accessibility and circulation requirements may affect stone design.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    PMR<\/td>\nFrench abbreviation referring to people with reduced mobility.<\/td>\nThresholds, surface changes, slopes and stair details must support accessible movement.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    UPEC<\/td>\nA French classification of floor use relating to wear, indentation, water and chemicals.<\/td>\nThe premises and complete floor system must be considered, not the stone name alone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    FDES<\/td>\nFrench environmental and health declaration for a construction product.<\/td>\nIts declared product, service life, scope and data quality should match the assessment being made.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    RE2020<\/td>\nFrench environmental and energy regulation for certain new buildings.<\/td>\nStone choices may interact with whole-building carbon and performance calculations.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    Commonly confused terms<\/h2>\n
    \n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n\n
    Do not confuse<\/th>\nSimple difference<\/th>\nPractical consequence<\/th>\n<\/tr>\n<\/thead>\n
    Vein and crack<\/td>\nA vein is a natural mineral feature; a crack is an opening or rupture.<\/td>\nOpen or moving areas may need technical assessment rather than visual acceptance alone.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Stain and etching<\/td>\nA stain is deposited or absorbed material; etching is actual loss of a calcite-rich surface.<\/td>\nStain remover cannot restore an acid-etched matt mark.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Sealer and waterproofing<\/td>\nA sealer reduces absorption; waterproofing prevents water entering the construction.<\/td>\nA treated stone surface does not make a shower or terrace watertight.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Polished and crystallised<\/td>\nPolishing is progressive mechanical abrasion; crystallisation is a chemical-mechanical floor process used on some marble.<\/td>\nThe correct restoration method depends on the stone and its condition.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Quartzite and engineered quartz<\/td>\nQuartzite is quarried rock; engineered quartz is a factory-made resin composite.<\/td>\nHeat, UV, fabrication and documentation requirements are different.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Marble and porcelain slab<\/td>\nMarble is natural stone; porcelain or sintered slab is manufactured ceramic material.<\/td>\nEdges, joints, repair and visual variation must be discussed differently.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n
    Natural variation and defect<\/td>\nVariation belongs to the approved stone range; a defect prevents agreed performance or quality.<\/td>\nApprove a batch, control sample and acceptance criteria before production.<\/td>\n<\/tr>\n<\/tbody>\n<\/table>\n<\/div>\n<\/section>\n
    \n

    Need advice for a real project?<\/h2>\n

    Marble Import helps international homeowners, architects and interior designers select stone, approve samples and slabs, check technical feasibility, and coordinate high-end stonework in France and across Europe.<\/p>\n

    Request a quotation<\/a>Contact our team<\/a><\/div>\n<\/section>\n<\/div>\n
    \n

    Related natural-stone guides and services<\/h2>\n

    Continue with the technical guides and project resources most closely connected with this glossary.<\/p>\n

    Marble and natural stone specialist in France<\/a>Natural Stone Encyclopedia<\/a>Contact Marbre Import<\/a>Natural-stone families<\/a>How marble and natural stone are formed<\/a>Finishes, touch and slip resistance<\/a>Stone cutting, carving and stereotomy<\/a>Natural-stone installation<\/a>Standards and project specifications<\/a>Natural-stone blog<\/a>Natural stone for private clients<\/a>Resources for architects and professionals<\/a>Request a project quotation<\/a>Browse available marble and natural stone<\/a>Independent natural-stone consulting<\/a><\/div>\n<\/section>\n

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    An English glossary of essential marble and natural-stone terms for materials, finishes, edges, installation, defects and conservation.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":4,"featured_media":0,"parent":248269,"menu_order":0,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","template":"","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_et_pb_use_builder":"on","_et_pb_old_content":"","_et_gb_content_width":"","_uag_custom_page_level_css":"","footnotes":""},"class_list":["post-248368","page","type-page","status-publish","hentry"],"acf":[],"uagb_featured_image_src":{"full":false,"thumbnail":false,"medium":false,"medium_large":false,"large":false,"1536x1536":false,"2048x2048":false,"et-pb-post-main-image":false,"et-pb-post-main-image-fullwidth":false,"et-pb-portfolio-image":false,"et-pb-portfolio-module-image":false,"et-pb-portfolio-image-single":false,"et-pb-gallery-module-image-portrait":false,"et-pb-post-main-image-fullwidth-large":false,"et-pb-image--responsive--desktop":false,"et-pb-image--responsive--tablet":false,"et-pb-image--responsive--phone":false},"uagb_author_info":{"display_name":"Nicolas Roudey","author_link":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/author\/qe0jqt2016ines\/"},"uagb_comment_info":0,"uagb_excerpt":"An English glossary of essential marble and natural-stone terms for materials, finishes, edges, installation, defects and conservation.","_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/248368","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/page"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/4"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=248368"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/248368\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":248748,"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/248368\/revisions\/248748"}],"up":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/pages\/248269"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/www.marbre-import.fr\/en\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=248368"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}