WHAT ARE STONE MOSAICS

Stone mosaics are decorative surface coverings made by assembling small, often irregularly
shaped pieces of various natural stones or sometimes man-made materials to create intricate and
artistic patterns. These patterns can range from simple geometric designs to intricate pictures and
scenes. Stone mosaics are commonly used in flooring, walls, and other architectural applications
to add a touch of elegance and visual interest to interior and exterior spaces.

Here are some key characteristics of stone mosaics:

Materials: Stone mosaics are primarily composed of natural stones such as marble,
travertine, granite, slate, and limestone. However, they can also incorporate glass,
ceramic, and other materials for added variety and aesthetic appeal.

Sizes and Shapes: The individual pieces, known as "tiles" or "tesserae," come in various
sizes and shapes. They can be square, rectangular, hexagonal, or even irregularly shaped
to create unique designs.

Colors and Finishes: Stone mosaics offer a wide range of color options, depending on the
types of stones used. The finishes can vary from polished and glossy to honed, tumbled,
or textured, providing different visual and tactile effects.

Applications: Stone mosaics are versatile and can be used in various applications, including
flooring, wall cladding, backsplashes, countertops, showers, and decorative accents. They
are commonly found in residential and commercial spaces, as well as in historical and
artistic contexts.

Durability: Natural stone mosaics are known for their durability and longevity. They can
withstand heavy foot traffic and are resistant to wear and tear. Proper maintenance can
ensure they retain their beauty for many years.

Design Versatility: Stone mosaics offer virtually limitless design possibilities. They can be
used to create intricate patterns, borders, medallions, and artistic murals, allowing for
customization to suit specific aesthetic preferences and design themes.
Installation: Installing stone mosaics requires skill and attention to detail. They are typically
mounted on mesh backing or paper sheets for ease of installation. Grout is used to fill the
gaps between the tiles, providing stability and a finished appearance.
 Maintenance: While stone mosaics are durable, they do require regular maintenance to
preserve their appearance. Proper cleaning, sealing, and maintenance routines are
essential to prevent staining and ensure longevity.

Overall, stone mosaics are prized for their timeless beauty, versatility, and the unique character
they bring to interior and exterior spaces. They are a popular choice for those seeking to enhance
the aesthetics of their homes, businesses, or architectural projects with a touch of natural
elegance.

OUR COLLECTIONS

Arcana: The Arcana collection draws inspiration from the intricate beauty of Islamic
architecture. This collection predominantly features designs created through water jet
cutting techniques, resulting in precise and intricate patterns. One remarkable aspect of
the Arcana collection is its adaptability to different types of stone, where the pattern
impacts may change based on the choice of stone. This versatility allows for a wide range
of aesthetic possibilities, making Arcana a unique and captivating choice for architectural
and interior design projects.

Geometrix: Geometrix is a collection characterized by clean, linear cuts that bring a sense of
modern sophistication to any space. Many designs within this collection fall into the mid
category, making them accessible for a variety of design budgets. Geometrix draws its
inspiration from parquet flooring, offering a contemporary twist on a classic design
element. With its geometric precision and timeless appeal, Geometrix mosaics add a
touch of elegance to floors and walls.

Giardino: The Giardino collection is a celebration of natural beauty, predominantly

featuring floral-inspired designs. Crafted with meticulous water jet cutting techniques,
these mosaics exhibit a level of detail and artistry that sets them apart. Giardino is often
considered the most luxurious and exclusive among your mosaic collections, as it utilizes
the finest materials and intricate patterns. Its exquisite floral motifs and exceptional
craftsmanship make it the choice for those seeking to elevate their spaces with a touch of
opulence.

Stone Weave: Stone Weave is a collection that artfully replicates the appearance of woven
carpets in stone. The trick to its unique charm lies in the veins of the stones aligning to
create exquisite patterns. . This collection offers a distinct and tactile experience, inviting
a sense of warmth and comfort into interiors. Stone Weave mosaics provide a creative
 and textured alternative to traditional flooring and wall coverings, allowing designers and
homeowners to explore the timeless appeal of woven patterns in a durable and visually
striking form.

PROCESS OF MAKING STONE MOSAICS

Stone mosaics are made through a meticulous process that involves selecting, cutting, arranging,
and adhering small pieces of natural stone or other materials to create intricate patterns or
designs. Here is a step-by-step overview of how stone mosaics are typically made:

Material Selection: The process begins with the selection of natural stone materials, such as
marble, travertine, granite, limestone, or even man-made materials like glass or ceramic.
The choice of material depends on the desired aesthetics, color scheme, and intended use
of the mosaic.

Stone Cutting: The selected stone or material is cut into smaller pieces, known as tesserae.
These pieces can vary in size and shape, depending on the design requirements. Precision
cutting is crucial to ensure that the tesserae fit together seamlessly.

Sorting and Grading: After cutting, the tesserae are sorted and graded based on various
criteria, including color, size, shape, and quality. This step ensures that the pieces are
consistent and suitable for the intended design.

Design Planning: The mosaic design is carefully planned, taking into account the chosen
pattern, color scheme, and overall layout. Designers may create detailed drawings or
digital templates to guide the assembly process.

Assembly: The tesserae are meticulously arranged and adhered to a substrate or backing
material. The substrate can be made of various materials, such as mesh, paper, or even
adhesive sheets. The adhesive used must be strong and durable to securely hold the
tesserae in place.

Setting and Grouting: Once the tesserae are firmly attached to the substrate, grout is applied
to fill the gaps between the tiles. Grout serves both functional and aesthetic purposes,
providing stability to the mosaic and defining the pattern.
 Finishing: After the grout has cured, the mosaic is cleaned and polished to remove any
excess grout and to enhance the appearance of the stones. The type of finish applied,
whether polished, honed, tumbled, or textured, depends on the desired final look.

Quality Control: A thorough quality control inspection is conducted to ensure that the
mosaic meets the specified design criteria and quality standards. Any imperfections or
inconsistencies are addressed before the mosaic is considered complete.

Sealing: In some cases, especially for natural stone mosaics, a sealer may be applied to
protect the surface and enhance the colors. Sealing helps prevent staining and makes
maintenance easier.

Packaging and Shipping: Once the mosaic is fully prepared and inspected, it is carefully
packaged to protect it during transit. Proper packaging ensures that the mosaic arrives at
its destination in pristine condition.

The entire process of creating stone mosaics requires a high level of craftsmanship, precision,
and attention to detail. Skilled artisans and craftsmen play a crucial role in bringing these
intricate designs to life. Stone mosaics can vary greatly in complexity, from simple geometric
patterns to highly detailed and artistic compositions, and the production process is adapted
accordingly.

WATER JET CUTTING PROCESS

Water jet cutting is a versatile and precise method used for cutting a wide range of materials,
including stone. Here’s a detailed explanation of how it works:

1. High-Pressure Pump:

The system uses a high-pressure pump to force water through a tiny nozzle at pressures up to
90,000 psi (pounds per square inch) or even higher. This intense pressure is what allows the
water jet to cut through hard materials like stone.

2. Mixing with Abrasives:

For cutting harder materials like stone, an abrasive material (typically garnet) is added to the
water stream. The abrasive particles are mixed with water in a mixing tube and then expelled out
of the nozzle. The abrasive particles do the actual cutting through a process of erosion.

3. Computer Numerical Control (CNC):

A computer numerical control (CNC) system guides the nozzle over the stone material based on
a pre-programmed design. The operator inputs the dimensions and shape of the desired cut into
the CNC system, ensuring precise and accurate cutting.

4. Cutting the Stone:

The high-velocity water and abrasive mixture is directed onto the stone surface, eroding away
material and cutting through the stone. The nozzle is typically moved along a set path at a
consistent speed to ensure an even cut. The water also serves to cool and lubricate the cutting
surface, helping to reduce dust and debris.

5. Catcher Tank:

The water, along with the eroded stone material and used abrasive, is collected in a catcher tank.
The water is often recycled and reused, while the waste material is disposed of.

Advantages:

● Precision: Water jet cutting allows for very precise cuts with a high degree of accuracy.
● Versatility: It can cut through various types and thicknesses of stone.
● Smooth Edges: The cutting process results in smooth, burr-free edges.
● No Heat-Affected Zone: Unlike some other cutting methods, water jet cutting does not
generate heat, so there’s no risk of altering the properties of the stone material.

Disadvantages:

● Speed: Depending on the thickness and type of stone, water jet cutting can be slower than
some other cutting methods.
● Cost: The equipment and operating costs can be high.
● Abrasive and Water Usage: The process requires a steady supply of abrasive material and
water, which can add to the operational costs.

In summary, water jet cutting is a powerful and precise method used for cutting stone, relying on
high-pressure water mixed with abrasive particles, guided by a CNC system. While it has
numerous advantages in terms of precision and versatility, it also has some disadvantages related
to speed and cost.

BRIDGE CUTTING PROCESS

A bridge cutter, also known as a bridge saw, is a type of machine used in the stone fabrication
industry to precisely cut large slabs of stone, such as marble, granite, or quartz. This tool is
commonly used for creating countertops, vanity tops, and other custom stone pieces. Here’s how
it typically works:

1. Solid Structure:

The bridge cutter consists of a solid, sturdy structure with a bridge that spans over the work area
where the stone slab is placed. The bridge provides support for the cutting components and
ensures stability during the cutting process.

2. Cutting Blade:

Attached to the bridge is a cutting blade, usually a diamond-tipped circular saw blade. Diamond
is used because of its hardness, which is necessary for cutting through tough stone materials.

3. Motor:

The cutting blade is powered by a motor. When activated, the motor spins the blade at high
speeds, enabling it to cut through the stone.

4. Water Cooling System:

To prevent overheating and reduce dust, a water cooling system is typically used. Water is
sprayed onto the blade and work area during cutting. This not only cools the blade but also helps
to wash away stone dust and debris.

5. Guiding and Controlling the Cut:

● Manual Operation: In some bridge cutters, the operator manually guides the blade
through the stone using handles or a steering wheel.
● Computer Numerical Control (CNC): In more advanced models, the cutting process is
controlled by a CNC system. The operator inputs the dimensions and shape of the desired
cut into the computer, which then guides the blade with precision.

6. Adjustability:

The cutting head (which holds the blade) can typically be adjusted to change the cutting depth
and angle. This allows for a variety of cuts to be made, including straight cuts, mitre cuts, and
bevel cuts.

7. Cutting the Stone:

The stone slab is securely placed on the work table, and the cutting blade is brought down onto
the stone. The blade is then guided across the stone, cutting it as required. The process is
controlled and precise, ensuring a straight and clean cut.

8. Finishing:

After the cutting is complete, the edges of the stone may be polished or finished using other tools
and equipment.

Advantages:

● Precision: Bridge cutters can provide very accurate and straight cuts.
● Versatility: They can be used on a wide variety of stone types and thicknesses.
● Speed: They are generally faster than manual cutting methods.

Disadvantages:

● Size Limitations: The size of the stone that can be cut is limited by the size of the bridge
and worktable.
● Cost: Bridge cutters can be expensive to purchase and maintain.
● Space: They require a significant amount of space in a workshop.

In summary, a bridge cutter is a specialized tool used in the stone industry for precisely cutting
large slabs of stone. It consists of a sturdy structure with a cutting blade, and it can be either
manually operated or controlled by a CNC system. The use of water helps to cool the blade and
reduce dust, resulting in clean and accurate cuts.

BRIDGE VS WATER JET CUTTING

Bridge cutters and water jet cutters are both popular tools used in the stone fabrication industry,
but they have different capabilities and are suited to different applications. Below is a
comparison based on various factors:

1. Cutting Precision:

● Bridge Cutter: Provides high precision, especially for straight cuts. The stability of the
bridge structure ensures accurate and clean cuts.
● Water Jet Cutter: Offers extremely high precision and can produce complex shapes and
intricate designs with tight tolerances.

2. Material Thickness:
 ● Bridge Cutter: Ideal for cutting thick slabs of stone. The robustness of the machine and
the diamond blade allow it to handle substantial material thicknesses.
● Water Jet Cutter: Can cut through a variety of material thicknesses, but the cutting speed
may decrease as material thickness increases.

3. Material Type:

● Bridge Cutter: Best suited for hard materials like granite, marble, and quartz. The
diamond blade can efficiently cut through these tough materials.
● Water Jet Cutter: Versatile in terms of material compatibility. It can cut through almost
any type of stone, as well as metals, glass, and other materials.

4. Cut Complexity:

● Bridge Cutter: Primarily used for straight cuts, though it can also make bevel and mitre
cuts with proper adjustments. Not suited for complex or intricate shapes.
● Water Jet Cutter: Capable of making highly complex and detailed cuts, including curves,
sharp angles, and intricate patterns.

5. Surface Finish:

● Bridge Cutter: Leaves a smooth surface, but may require additional finishing or
polishing, depending on the application.
● Water Jet Cutter: Also leaves a smooth edge, potentially reducing the need for secondary
finishing. However, the surface may show striations from the water jet.

6. Speed:

● Bridge Cutter: Typically faster when it comes to straight cuts on thick stone slabs.
● Water Jet Cutter: Cutting speed depends on the material thickness and type, as well as the
complexity of the cut. Can be slower than a bridge cutter for thick, straight cuts.

7. Operating Costs:

● Bridge Cutter: Lower operating costs compared to a water jet cutter. The main
consumable is the diamond blade.
● Water Jet Cutter: Higher operating costs due to the need for high-pressure pumps,
abrasive materials, and water treatment or disposal.

8. Workspace and Setup:

● Bridge Cutter: Requires a substantial workspace and is a significant investment in terms

of installation and setup.
 ● Water Jet Cutter: Also requires a considerable amount of space, especially for the water
and abrasive tanks, pumps, and filtration systems.

Conclusion:

● Bridge Cutter: Ideal for businesses focusing on countertops, flooring, and other
applications requiring straight or slightly angled cuts on thick stone slabs.
● Water Jet Cutter: Suited for versatile applications, intricate designs, and cutting a wider
variety of materials. Great for custom or artistic work.

Ultimately, the choice between a bridge cutter and a water jet cutter will depend on the specific
needs of the project, the types of materials being cut, the desired precision and complexity of the
cuts, and budget considerations.

HAND CUT VS MACHINE CUT MOSAICS

Hand-cut and machine-cut mosaics are two distinct methods for creating mosaic tiles, each with
its own advantages and considerations. Here's a comparison of hand-cut and machine-cut
mosaics:
Hand-Cut Mosaics:

 Artistic Craftsmanship: Hand-cut mosaics are crafted by skilled artisans who carefully
shape each tessera (individual tile) using traditional tools such as hammers and chisels.
This method allows for a high degree of artistic expression and customization. Artisans
can create intricate designs and shapes with precision, making each piece unique.

 Irregular Shapes: Hand-cut mosaics often feature irregular shapes, which can add a
charming, rustic, or artistic quality to the finished mosaic. This irregularity can be
desirable for certain design aesthetics.

 Texture and Depth: Hand-cut mosaics may exhibit variations in thickness, resulting in a
textured, three-dimensional appearance. This texture can create visual interest and a
tactile experience.

 Customization: Hand-cut mosaics are highly customizable. Artisans can adjust the size,
shape, and color of tesserae to meet specific design requirements and preferences.

 Artisanal Value: The labor-intensive nature of hand-cut mosaics adds to their artisanal
value, making them appealing to those who appreciate craftsmanship and the human
touch in their designs.
Machine-Cut Mosaics:

 Consistency: Machine-cut mosaics are precisely shaped using automated equipment,

ensuring uniformity in size, shape, and thickness. This consistency is ideal for projects
that require a clean and polished look.

 Efficiency: Machine cutting is significantly faster than hand cutting, making it a more
efficient option for large-scale production and commercial projects. This efficiency can
also translate into cost savings.

 Precision: Machines can create complex patterns with high precision, allowing for
intricate designs that are difficult to achieve by hand.

 Repeatability: Machine-cut mosaics can be replicated exactly, ensuring that the same
design can be produced consistently over time.

 Cost-Effective: Machine-cut mosaics are often more budget-friendly than their hand-cut
counterparts due to reduced labor costs.

Choosing Between Hand-Cut and Machine-Cut Mosaics:

The choice between hand-cut and machine-cut mosaics depends on several factors:

 Design Aesthetics: Consider the design style and aesthetic you want to achieve. Hand-
cut mosaics are better for rustic, artistic, or custom designs, while machine-cut mosaics
excel in achieving precision and uniformity.

 Budget: Budget constraints may influence your choice. Hand-cut mosaics are typically
more expensive due to the labor-intensive process, while machine-cut mosaics offer cost-
effective solutions for larger projects.

 Project Scale: The scale of the project matters. Machine-cut mosaics are practical for
large commercial installations, while hand-cut mosaics are often preferred for smaller,
high-end residential projects.

 Timeline: Consider project timelines. Machine-cut mosaics can be produced more

quickly, which may be crucial for time-sensitive projects.
Ultimately, the choice between hand-cut and machine-cut mosaics should align with the project's
design goals, budget, and practical requirements. Some projects may even incorporate both types
to achieve a blend of artistic expression and precision.